Consumption and Saving Behaviour of Vegetable Street Vendors in Thalassery Taluk, Kerala: Evidence from a Field Survey

Street vending is an important component of the urban informal economy and provides self-employment to workers with limited access to secure formal jobs. This study examines the consumption and saving behaviour of vegetable street vendors in Thalassery Taluk, Kannur district, Kerala, with particular attention to income conditions, consumption expenditure, saving practices, financial behaviour, and occupational vulnerability. The study is based on primary survey data collected from 100 vegetable street vendors through a structured questionnaire and personal interaction, supported by secondary information from books, journal articles, reports, and government publications. Descriptive statistics, mainly frequencies and percentages, are used for analysis. The findings indicate economic vulnerability: 69 percent were classified as below the poverty line, while 62 percent belonged to the reported income category of 15,000–20,000. Consumption expenditure was concentrated in the 5,000–10,000 category for 62 percent of respondents. Saving behaviour was widespread, and 66 percent preferred banks for deposits, while weekly saving was the most common routine. Disposable income emerged as the leading reported determinant of consumption, identified by 71 percent of respondents. The study also reveals long working hours, dependence on wholesale markets, limited social protection, and the need for supplementary income among many vendors. These findings show that consumption and saving decisions are closely linked to irregular earnings, daily livelihood requirements, and limited financial security. The study recommends improved financial inclusion, accessible saving instruments, social protection, secure vending spaces, affordable insurance, credit support, and stronger municipal assistance to improve livelihood stability among vegetable street vendors in the study area.