The Influence of Buffer Stock on Cashew Sales: A Case Study of Sari Mete Souvenir Shop in Kendari

Abstrak

This study aims to analyze the effect of buffer stock on the sales of raw cashew nuts and to measure the strength of the relationship between buffer stock levels and sales at Sari Mete Souvenir Shop in Kendari City. The study was conducted from November 2024 to January 2025 in Kendari City using a survey method. The sample was selected through purposive sampling from business operators who actively implemented inventory management systems. Primary data were collected through structured interviews using questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from relevant institutions. Data were analyzed using simple linear regression with SPSS version 26. The results showed that the average buffer stock level was 24.92 kg, while the average monthly sales of raw cashew nuts in 2024 were 6.58 kg. The regression analysis produced the equation Y = −1.585 + 0.328X, with a significance value of 0.001 (<0.05), indicating that buffer stock had a positive and significant effect on raw cashew nut sales. The correlation coefficient (R) of 0.847 indicated a strong and positive relationship between buffer stock and sales, while the coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.717 indicated that 71.7% of the variation in sales could be explained by buffer stock, while the remaining 28.3% was influenced by other factors outside the model. These findings indicate that effective buffer stock management can support increased sales while maintaining product availability. Therefore, an efficient inventory management strategy is essential for ensuring supply continuity, meeting consumer demand, and improving the competitiveness of cashew-based souvenir businesses in Kendari City.