DELAYED PAYMENT OF SALARIES AND WAGES AND EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE OF MANGERO BOTTLING COMPANY OWERRI, IMO STATE

This study examined the effect of delayed payment of salaries and wages on employees’ performance in Mangero Bottling Company, Owerri, Imo State. The study was necessitated by persistent challenges faced by employees as a result of irregular or untimely salary payments, which often affect their motivation and overall productivity. A total of 50 respondents were selected through a simple random sampling technique, and data were collected using structured questionnaires. The analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques to establish the relationship between delayed salary payments and employees’ performance indicators such as job commitment, productivity, and work morale. The findings revealed that delayed payment of salaries and wages has a significant negative effect on employees’ performance in the company. Specifically, employees reported reduced motivation, lower levels of commitment, and decreased efficiency when salaries were not paid on time. Conversely, timely payment of wages was found to improve employee morale, enhance productivity, and foster a greater sense of loyalty to the organization. The study concludes that prompt payment of salaries and wages is a critical determinant of employee performance and organizational growth. It recommends that management of Mangero Bottling Company should prioritize timely remuneration policies, adopt effective payroll systems, and strengthen financial planning mechanisms to avoid payment delays. This will not only improve employee satisfaction but also enhance overall performance and productivity in the organization.