IMPACT OF PRICE FLUCTUATIONS IN PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON THE PURCHASE BEHAVIOR OF CUSTOMERS IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY IN COIMBATORE

This research focuses on evaluating the effect of price variations of petroleum products on the purchasing behaviour of customers in the automobile sector in Coimbatore district. A structured questionnaire collected responses from 148 respondents selected through purposive random sampling.Data was analysed using Chi-square tests and represented using pie charts. It was established that fluctuations in petroleum product prices influence customer preference with regards to types of vehicles they purchase,frequency of use & fuel efficiency.Finally,the research concludes with some recommendations to manufacturers and policy makers on how to adapt to the changing consumer behaviour.