Study of the purchasing and ordering patterns of retailers of autospares and accessories; MICO Ltd, Bangalore

Abstract

MICO has an extensive distribution network spanning the length and breadth of the country, and comprises main distributors, authorised distributors, The project is limited to the study of retail sales outlets outside the HICO network who perform the function of retailing and selling of spare parts to the replacement market. These outlets cater to the needs of the vehicle owners- who are the endusers in this case. They are not exclusive outlets or franchises and thus may purchase or sell competing brands of the same product. The purpose of the project is to study the purchasing and stocking patterns of these retailers w.r.t. autospares and accessories. Since it is not possible to make a study of all spares being sold in the market, they have been categorised into 12 broad groups which are investigated in detail in accordance with the stated objectives. An attempt has been made to develop a checklist for the development of future sales outlets and also investigate the position of these outlets regarding window product display and other merchandising possibilities.