IMPACT OF DIGITAL PAYMENTS ON THE REVENUE EFFICIENCY OF PHARMACEUTICAL BUSINESS IN DELTA STATE.

This study examined the impact of digital payment systems on revenue efficiency in community pharmacy businesses operating in Ughelli, Delta State. Specifically, the study investigated the effect of Point of Sale (POS) transactions, mobile payment platforms, online/internet payment systems, and automated billing systems on revenue efficiency. A survey research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 257 respondents drawn from registered community pharmacy shops in the study area. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis. The findings revealed that POS transactions have a positive and statistically significant impact on revenue efficiency, indicating that real-time electronic transaction recording enhances sales accuracy and reduces revenue leakages. Mobile payment platforms were also found to significantly improve revenue efficiency by facilitating faster payment settlements and strengthening cash flow management. Similarly, online/internet payment systems showed a positive and significant effect on revenue efficiency, suggesting that internet-based payment options enhance revenue tracking and operational convenience. Automated billing systems were found to significantly improve revenue efficiency by reducing manual errors and strengthening internal control mechanisms. The overall regression model demonstrated that digital payment system components jointly explain a substantial proportion of variations in revenue efficiency. The study concludes that digital payment systems are critical tools for improving revenue realization, minimizing financial discrepancies, and enhancing operational efficiency in community pharmacy businesses. It recommends increased adoption and effective utilization of digital payment technologies to strengthen financial sustainability in the pharmaceutical sector