Prices of goods in Nkawkaw and across the entire Kwahu area have become unacceptably high, placing an unfair burden on consumers. In this context, the entry of Franko Company Limited into the Nkawkaw market is a welcome and commendable development.
It has come to light that some businesses were unhappy when Franko began operations in Nkawkaw, largely because of the company’s relatively lower and standardized prices.
Franko maintains uniform pricing across all its branches, regardless of location, and this approach promotes fairness, transparency, and much-needed relief for consumers.
Extending its operations to Nkawkaw is therefore a positive step that deserves recognition.
The presence of Franko highlights the urgent need for more companies especially those currently operating only in Accra to consider expanding into Nkawkaw and the wider Kwahu area. Increased competition will help stabilize prices and curb excessive profiteering.
A clear example of the current pricing problem is the cost of mineral water. At Real Parker Shop in Nkawkaw, a pack of medium-sized Verna Mineral Water (16 bottles) sells for GH¢22.00.
However, some retailers sell the same medium-sized bottle at GH¢4.00 per bottle, meaning a single pack goes for GH¢64.00, resulting in an excessive profit margin of about GH¢42.00 per pack.
While Real Parker sells at relatively moderate prices to both retailers and wholesalers, certain traders continue to exploit consumers through unjustified price hikes. This situation cannot be ignored, and it raises serious concerns about relying solely on a completely free market to protect consumers.
In areas such as the Kwahu Afram Plains, high prices are sometimes attributed to poor road networks and transportation challenges, though even that remains debatable. However, for Nkawkaw and much of Kwahu, the current cost of goods is largely unjustifiable.
The entry of companies like Franko Trading proves that fair pricing is possible. More businesses must follow this example to bring balance, fairness, and relief to consumers, because the current situation is clearly getting out of hand.
By K-Lover Media Lovers TV Africa
Photo Credit: Acheam Pon
