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Chapter – 1 Rationale And Scope of the Study 1.1 INTRODUCTION Today’s market is changing at an incredible pace. Companies operate in a Darwinian market place where the principle of natural selection leads to “The Survival of The Fittest”. In addition to the globalization and technological changes we are also witnessing a power shift from manufacturers to giant retailers, a rapid growth and acceptance of store brands, new retail firms, growing price and – value sensitivity of consumers, a seemingly diminishing role for mass – marketing and advertising and a disconcerting erosion of brand loyalty. The changes are

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Page 1: Chapter

Chapter – 1

Rationale And Scope of the

Study

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Today’s market is changing at an incredible pace. Companies

operate in a Darwinian market place where the principle of natural

selection leads to “The Survival of The Fittest”. In addition to the

globalization and technological changes we are also witnessing a power

shift from manufacturers to giant retailers, a rapid growth and acceptance

of store brands, new retail firms, growing price and – value sensitivity of

consumers, a seemingly diminishing role for mass – marketing and

advertising and a disconcerting erosion of brand loyalty. The changes are

dragging the companies– instead of operating in a defined market with a

fixed number of competitors and with a set of stable customer preference

to a more volatile marketing atmosphere – almost a war zone like

situation, with rapidly changing variables ... like competitors, technology,

business laws, trade policies, customers, brand loyalty etc. Companies

very often find themselves unprepared and ill-equipped to have a

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competitive edge over its competitors especially then, when changes are

even difficult to be predicted precisely or accurately.

This makes the situation more difficult for the companies &

organisations as they are not always in a position to adapt themselves and

their activities to suit to the demands of the changed scenarios. Thus

companies find themselves running in a race where the road signs and

rules keep changing too frequently and there is no visible finish line, no

concept of “permanent win”. They simply have to keep racing in a

direction to be the one, which the customer, public and society want them

to go into.

Today the customer is donning the kings gown, He is more evolved

than his predecessors and has grown to enjoy the limelight. All

companies, who wish to survive and grow in the market, needs to focus

their attention and resources to woo and please the “customer – the king”.

That is why the customer finds and unprecented glare at himself. The

companies all queuing up and bowing respectfully before him and

presenting him with their offerings.

So, consumers today has the advantage of plenty of products in

every category. They exhibit varying and diverse requirements for

products / services – combination of quality service. In the face of their

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vast choices, customers are gravitated to the offerings that best meet their

individual needs & expectations. They will buy on the basis of their

perception of values.

Therefore, today’s winning companies are those who succeed in

satisfying, indeed delighting their target customers. These companies see

marketing as company– wide–philosophy – not a separate function. Their

marketing people define which customer group & needs the company can

profitably serve and how to serve them more efficiently than competitors.

These companies are market focused & customer driven rather than

solely product focused or cost driven. They pay extreme attention to

qualities & service to meeting and even exceeding customer’s

expectation. They compete vigorously, pursue efficiently and yet are

responsive & flexible.

Perhaps, the basic change in marketing thinking is the paradigm

shift from “pursuing a sale” to “creating a customer” Past marketing has

been largely transaction oriented. Today it is more relationship oriented.

In addition to designing the best marketing-mix “to make a sale”, there is

growing emphasis on designing the best relationship-mix for winning and

keeping customers. Good customers are always an asset which, when

well – managed & served, will return a handsome lifetime income stream

to the company, In the intensely competitive market place, the company’s

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first order of business is to retain customer loyalty through continually

satisfying their needs in a superior way.

Nevertheless, marketers must study target consumers’ wants,

perception, preferences and shopping & buying behaviour. Such study

will provide clues for developing new products, product features, prices,

channels, messages & other marketing mix elements.

1.2 AIM OF THE STUDY

The ultimate aim of marketing is to meet and satisfy customer’s

needs, wants and desires. But “knowing customers” is never simply.

Customers may state their needs & wants but at otherwise. They may no

in touch with their deeper motivations they may respond to influences

that change their mind last minute.

Plainly speaking the term consumer behaviour refers to the

behaviour that consumers display in searching for purchasing, using,

evaluating and dispersing of products and services that they expect would

satisfy their needs. The study of consumer behaviour is the study of how

individuals make decisions to spend their available resources (Time,

Money, Efforts) on consumption related items.

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As scholar of human behaviour, we are concerned with

understanding consumer behaviour, with gaining insights into why

individuals act in certain consumption related ways & learning what

internal & external influences compel them to act as they do.

Pertaining to these, other purposes of

our study includes :-

a) To get acquaintance with the marketing practices of an

organisation with special reference to APOLLO TYRES LTD.

(ATL), PATNA.

b) To analyse the consumers preferences & ultimately market share

of Apollo Tyres Ltd. in Jeep & Tractor tyres.

c) To provide relevant research date which enable Apollo Tyres Ltd.

management for their policy framing and strategy formulation.

d) To know the various factors which affect their buying decisions.

e) Raising awareness level of Apollo Tyres Ltd. in FARM tyres

segment through Road shows & personal selling.

f) To know the opinion of the respondents towards ATL.

g) Finally, to fulfill the regulatory norms of IMT, Ghaziabad for the

award of PGDBM degree.

1.3 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

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The study of consumers behaviour under the Apollo Tyres Ltd.,

Patna is the study of how & in what manner individual make decisions to

spend their available resources (Time, Money & Efforts) on consumption

related items. It includes within its periphery, the study of -

a) What they buy.

b) Why they buy.

c) Whey they buy

d) Where they buy

e) How often they & use it & etc.

The answers to the above question will help us to understand the

diversifying buying behaviour of consumers, which ultimately help us to

frame rational and result oriented marketing principles and strategies for

making optimal sue of available resources. No doubt, such study of

consumer behaviour shall give us great competitive advantages in the

market place.

Our study was diversified to the Jeep & tractor Tyres. Since the

company has launched itself in Tractor tyres segment recently it needed

to know about the consumer behaviour about tractors tyres and thus

formulate its strategies. In the Jeep segment the company especially

emphasised on to create new customer base and thus the study was

focused towards that area.

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Many of these applications of consumer research are managerial in

perspective they are designed to help a marketer make specific marketing

decisions concerning products, price, promotions & distribution.

Chapter – 2

Details of Research Plan

2.1 STUDY METHODOLOGY

The marketing concept is build on the premises that marketers first

identify customers needs-both felt needs as well as unfelt (latent) needs

and then develop products & services to satisfy those needs. Consumer

research offers a set of diverse methods to identify such needs and is also

used to better understand the consumer behaviour. Thus market research

is the most appropriate tool available with us to conduct market study.

In this particular research, the focus was on the Jeep Tyres and

Tractor Tyres in the Western Bihar Comprising districts & surrounding

villages of Danapur, Maner, Bihta, Ara, Piro, Jagdishpur, Buxar,

Bikramganj, Brahmapur, Bihiya, Sone Barsha, Kochas, Bikram, Pali,

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Naubatpur, etc as Jeep Tractors are mostly found in the semi urban or

rural areas.

For Market study first of all a research design was formulated.

2.2 RESEARCH DESIGN

A research design is simply a framework of plan for a study that

guides the collection and analysis of data. Broadly there are tow typs of

research design:

(i) Exploratory Research Design &

(ii) Conclusive Research Design.

An exploratory research design is used to find out various possible

alternatives solutions to given problems.

While conclusive research design provides information that helps

in making a rational decisions from available alternatives.

For the study purpose a proper mix of these two research design

are used since it demands various informations.

2.3 SOURCES OF DATA

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For the purpose of study both Primary as well as Secondary data

were used.

a) Primary data : With the help of structured formal set of

questionnaire, various customers/consumers were personally

interviewed regarding the various purchasing pattern and

parameters with the help of a number of questions – a mix of

closed/open & disguised/under disguised.

b) Secondary data : Relevant & related data were also collected

from the various secondary sources like company journals,

magazines, newspapers, company websites, etc. (Ref. Appendix)

2.4 SAMPLE

A sample of jeep owners/ drivers in various jeep stands of all

districts as well as sample of tractors owners / drivers in the city &

surrounding villages were randomly selected in all the important areas of

West Bihar. The sample size in jeep segment was 50 on an average in

each district while in tractor type segment it was on an average 40. The

selected sample were representatives of various types of owners – owing

single vehicle, multi-vehicle users of farm as well as hauling tractors, etc.

2.5 LIMITATIONS

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Although the study has been done with proper care, certain

shortcomings could not be ruled out which are beyond the reach of

researcher’s control.

a) Limitation of Time: - In a short span of 6 weeks the whole

universe can’t be taken into consideration for the study which of

course would have given more accurate results.

b) Limitation of Sample Size: Since a limited number of customer /

respondents were selected from cities & villages but not the whole,

so the result is likely to be affected.

c) Biased information: In some cases Biased informations was

received from respondents. Also at times misleading responses

were given.

In any case market study is not an exact science. It relates to

responses given by the consumers / respondents as against the questions

pertaining to their behaviour & preferences Most of these responses are

subjective in nature. Mathematical deductions are possible but the

accuracy of data is bound to suffer from biases & prejudices of the

respondents, no matter what be the degree of sophistication. Hence, this

being the universal deficiency of market research, may have affected this

particular research as well.

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Chapter – 3

The Tyre Industry & Apollo

Tyres Ltd.

AN OVERVIEW

Transportation forms an integral part of the infrastructure in any

economy. Adequate transport infrastructure spurs economic activities. In

the developing countries like India, transportation is the backbone of the

economic development and prosperity. Since the geographical coverage

in India is vast and versatile, road transport is a very important mode of

transportation, second only to railways. The latter of course joins major

cities & town across the country but road, transport is equally important

as it links up almost all the nooks & corner of the land. This also

connects major ports and city to remotest areas. The tyre industry fulfils

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the needs of the road transport sector and plays a very important role in

the automobile industry.

3.1 INDUSTRY PROFILE

3.1 (a) HISTROY OF TYRES

The covering for the outer rim of a wheel constitutes a tyre Most

tyres are made of rubber reinforced with a kind of fabric and are

pneumatic. While we all are familiar with the invention of the wheel,

used in its earliest forms in Egypt & Mesopotamia, the pneumatic tyre

came much later.

3.1 (b) THE BEGINNING

While the invention of the wheel changed the way we traveled

early, Automobiles were not very comfortable to ride in. Hard seats &

rigid metals wheels made the journey extremely arduous and literally a

pain. Without the invention of the pneumatic rubber tyres, we would still

be rattling around on wooden or rigid steel wheels.

The invention of useful rubber is often attributed to Charles

Goodyear. Natural or India Rubber, as it was then known, had few uses.

In 1830, Goodyear began experimenting with raw rubber and brought a

truckload and attempted to turn it into solid. Later he obtained a product

with the consistency of gum. Goodyear invited some of his friends over

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to show them the ball of gummy rubber that he had managed to harden

by mixing the rubber with sulphur and treating it with an acid gas. The

ball accidentally landed on a hot wood stove. As Goodyear attempted to

scrape the rubber off the stove, he discovered it has hardened to the

consistency he had been trying to achieve. The process of vulcanisation

has thus been born.

In the summers of 1887, that a physician by profession and a

veterinarian John Boyd Dunlop attempted to make air filled tyres for his

son’s bicycles to reduce the drag and improve the ride. He mounted a

rubberised fabric on a metal rim, holding it in position by means of

stitching and bolting it. The contraption was then inflated. Thus came

into existence the pneumatic tyres. He patented the pneumatic bicycle

tyre in 1889 to Harvey Du Cross, Jr. who started the Dunlop Tyre

Company. The tyre then consisted of a rubber tube covered with canvas

and attached to the rim of the wheel by a rubber solution.

3.1 (c) DEVELOPMENT

Had it not been persistent efforts of Goodyear, Dunlop, Michelin,

Ceat, Sieberling, Goodnih, Strauss and the Likes, we might still be ratting

around on rigid steel and wooden wheels. Their combined efforts have

now been grown in a $70 Bn global tyre industry. The industry has come

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a long way – both globally as well as domestically. In India the tyre

industry was born in 1926 with the establishment of the first tyre

company – Dunlop rubber company. As the automobile sector began to

take roots in the country. The tyre industry saw the entry of many players

and concurrently grew until the late 70’s With waves of liberalisation

sweeping the land in 1992 the industry saw the entry of many global

players as a part of joint ventures.

Developments in the tyre industry have to be viewed from the

perspective of its strong linkages with performances of the agricultural

and industrial sectors, overall exports, transpiration and a multiplicity of

other factors, As a result, tyre industry operates in an environment, which

is dynamic and driven by the performance of other sectors. Performance

of the segment is linked to that of automobile and surface transport

sectors.

3.1 (d) PRESENT SCENARIO

The last decade saw an average annual growth rate of 9%.

However, in FY ’03 the growth was 5.5% collectively. It was an increase

by 2.9% over the FY ’02 when the industry growth rate was at mere

2.6%.

3.1 (e) THE INDIAN TYRE CO’S

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A brier introduction of some important Indian tyre co’s is given to

get acquainted with them.

(i) Bombay Tyres International Ltd. : Set up in 1930 in Calcutta

had shifted to Bombay in 1939; started manufacturing in 1940; products

marketed under the brand name “MODISTONE”; technological

collaborations with continental Gummi Werke; Germany has been facing

a series of lockouts and strikes in the past decades.

(ii) Ceat Limited : Set up in 1958; management under Mr. R. P.

Goenka, has achieved 100% capacity utilization & claims a considerable

chunk of market share; technical collaboration with Okohama Rubber

Co. Japan, very strong in research & development and distribution;

significant presence in radial tyre segment.

(iii) Dunlop India Ltd. : Set up in 1936 manufactured a wide range of

tyres ranging from bullock carts to aeroplanes; had technical

collaboration with Sumitomo Rubber Co., Japan & Dunlop Ltd. UK, the

company has closed down its operations in India.

(iv) J.K. Industries : Set up in 1951; went public in 1974; under the

management of J.K. Group of Mr. H. K. Singhaniya, manufacturing tyres

since 1972; technical collaboration with General tyres Ltd. International

USA & Continental Gummi Werke, W. Germnay; Good market

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performance despite break out of fire at Plant & Labour problems in the

continuing decade; has a very good reputation and consumer support is

also good; one of the first Indian Tyre Co’s. to be awarded ISO 9001.

(v) MRF Ltd. : Set up in 1960, Madras Rubber Factory Ltd. is one of

the key players of the market; Chairman Mr. K.M. Mannen, technical

collaboration with Mansfield Tyre & Rubber Company, USA, Good

performance despite closure of plant in Goa; pionner in Making tyres for

new model cars in technical collaborations with Uniroyal Goodrich

Tyres, USA & Pirelli,

(vi) Modi Tyres : Setup in 19710at Ghaziabad, Chairman K.N. Modi;

had technical collaborations with continental Gummi Werke, W.

Germany; had a very good presence in bus & truck tyres segment, had

good export figures too, was into making radial tyres for truck, cars &

LCVs. Unfortunately had to close down in very recent past due to

unavoidable circumstances.

(vii) Apollo Tyres : Set up in 1972 in Kerala by Industrialist Mr.

Raunaq Singh; technology from General Tyres International, USA was

earlier troubled by Industrial relations problems but has now come out of

it with flying colours; increased overall growth by 18% vis-a-vis the

entire category growth of a mere 2% in by 2001-02.

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3.1 (f) INDIAN TYRE INDUSTRY :

Some facts & figures.

(1) Average annual compound growth rate in exports : 27%

(2) Industry turnover in India : Rs.98000 Mn

(3) Total taxes & duties paid : Rs.24250 Mn

(4) Average annual growth of production in last decade : 09%

3.1 (g) COLLABORATIONS OF SOME INDIAN TYRE

COMPANIES

Companies Collaborations

(1) Apollo Tyres Ltd. General Tyres Intl. Co. USA

Continental AG (Germany)

(2) MRF Ltd. Uniroyal Goodrich, USA (Part of

Michelin, Germany)

(3) Goodyear India Ltd. Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Co.,USA

(4) Ceat Ltd. Yokohama Rubber Co. Japan

Goodyear, USA

(5) J. K. Industries Ltd. General Tyres Intl. Co. USA

Continental A G (Germany)

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(6) Vikrant Tyres Ltd. Avon Technical Services Ltd. UK

(7) Birla Tyres Society pneumatic Pirelli, SPA

Italy

(8) Modi Rubber Ltd. Continental, Germany

(9) Dunlop India Ltd. Sumitomo Rubber Ind. Japan

Dunlop Ltd. UK Pirelli, Italy

(10) Bombay Tyres Continental, Germany

3.2 ORGANISATIONAL PROFILE

Named after Greek Sun GOD, Apollo was set up in 1972 in Kerala

by Legendary Industrialist Mr. Raunaq Singh. It was that era when hard

nosed MNC’s and Indian tyre majors dominated the industry. Despite

incurring heavy losses in the Initial years, mainly due to the fact that all

tyre major in those days had high production capacities as compared to

the market demand; Apollo come back as a strong player backed by

strong production & marketing strategies.

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It was the combined effort of Goal Oriented people and clear,

adventurous vision of the top management and its state of the art

technology, APOLLO, is today. A name to reckon with, not just in nylon

but also in the radial tyre segment.

With a view to position itself in the premium tyre segment, Apollo

decided to price its brands reasonably higher than its competitors. The

rationale behind this was targeting a customer segment for whom price

was almost a none-issue. The key criterion was product benefit, Premium

branding led to the development of a niche that comprised of those who

looked for the best tyre and not necessarily the best bargain.

This not only made the company less vulnerable to recessionary

trends in the years to come but also in recent times. While the industry

has been crying wolf, Apollo has comfortably weathered the storm of

Recession. Little wonder then, that customers’ loyalty to Apollo brands

has become legendary.

Believing firmly in the philosophy of always looking for new

answers Apollo has all along envisioned Action that would challenge the

conventional wisdom of the Tyre Industry. Call it holistic thinking or

innovative marketing strategies. As a corporation, Apollo has always

thrived on huge challenges so as to turn them around to its advantage.

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VISION

“A leader in the Indian Tyre Industry and a significant global

Player, Providing customer delight & enhancing share holder value.”

CORE VALUES :

C : Care for customers

R : Respect for associates

E : Excellence through teamwork

A : Always learning.

T : Trust mutually

E : Ethical practices

PRINCIPLE OF GROWTH

“It’s for the customer that we keep purchasing the bar of excellence,

Time & again. By being innovative, efficient and caring we respond to our

customer needs. What ever we do, we never fail to ask ourselves a simple

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question. How will the customer benefit from this particular innovation:

technology or service? Will it bring about a substantial difference in their

lives? Can we, in our quest for excellence, go even further? In meeting

these challenges day in and day out, lies the secret of our success.”

3.2 (a) STRATEGIC GOALS

Apollo tyres aims to achieve a turnover of $1 billion by 2005-06.

The corporate objectives in support of this are

(1) EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION

(2) CUSOMER DELIGHT

(3) REVENUE GROWTH

(4) OPERATING MARGING IMPORVEMENTS

3.2 (b) OEM PARTNERS

Apollo had a long-standing relationship with various partners in the

Industry. In association with partners Apollo Tyres is in full gear to

become “The Tyre” company of the Next Generation. Following is the list

of particular companies: -

Type of Tyres/Vehicles Name of the Co’s

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Trucks Telco, Ashok Leyland

Radials Maruti, Mahindra & Mahindra, Telco.

LCV Eicher, Swaraj, Mazda, Telco, Bajaj

Farm Mahindra & Mahindra, Punjab Tractors,

Tafe, ITC.

3.2 (c) ACHIEVEMENT IN THE FORM OF CERTIFICATIONS

& AWARDS

ACHIEVEMENTS

1. Fastest growing tyre co. in India, 7th in the world.

2. Eighteenth largest tyre co. in the world.

3. The first tyre co. in India to obtain ISO 9001. Certification for all

its operations.

4. The firs5t tyre co. to introduce packaging for tubes, two wheeler

tyres & car tyres.

5. The first tyre co. to have the concept of exclusive showrooms for

truck tyres called the APOLLO TYRE WORLD.

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6. The only tyre company with more than 100 sales & service offices

in India.

CERTIFICATIONS DETAILS

1. First tyre company in the country to get ISO 9001 certification:

Oct. 1994.

2. One of the few tyre manufactures with QS-9000 certification –

Mar. ’01.

3. Consistently rated as excellent in quality audit by the collaborator

M/s Continental AG.

4. Manufacturing facility & Tyre Testing Lab certified by “In-Metro”

of Brazil.

5. Registered with CQAV (Defence) & DGS & D (Govt.)

6. Approved by Dept. of Transport of USA, ECE – European

Economic Comm. of Europe.

SASO-Saudi Arabian standards’ Org. of SA; Convening of Venezuela.

3.2 (d) DISTRIBUTION REACH

Apollo Tyres Ltd. has a dealer network of over 5,000 dealers

which is largest in the country. Out of these there are over 3000 exclusive

outlets under the brand name Apollo Tyres World and ARW. Their quick

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response mechanism enables prompt product delivery and after sales

services to provide holistic solution to customers.

3.2 (e) MANUFACTUREING LOCATIONS

(1) Perambra – Cochin (2) Pune – Maharashtra,

(3) Limda – Gujarat (4) Kalamessary – Kochin.

3.2 (f) BUSINESS PROFILE

Apollo manufactures Truck & Bus, passenger car, jeep, LCV &

Farm tyres. It has an extensive distribution network of more than 3000

dealers known for its quality & successful brand such as Amazer XL,

XT-9, Loadstar Super, Milestar, Champion Amar, Amar DLX,

Mahatrooper, Tropper, Gripper, Duramile, Etc. It has a strong market

aggressiveness which is giving a tough competition to MRF & others.

Percentage rise in sales – 17.56%

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Launched new farm tyres of Farmking, Krishak Super, Powerhaul,

Krishak Premium, etc. It has targeted the farm segment of customers. The

Farmaking is the first radial tractor tyre of India.

3.2 (g) PRODUCTION

Production of tyres & tubes during the year 2003-04 was higher at

2.03 lacs tons as against 1.74 lakh tons during the previous year

registering a growth of 16.66% in volume terms.

3.2 (h) DOMESTIC MARKETING

During the year, the company has made substantial gains in all

segments of business despite a less than bright domestic scenario. Rapid

gains are made in the truck & bust tyres segment with the company

emerging as the clear leader.

A segment where the company’s initiatives for customer delight

led to leadership was the rear tractor tyre segment in the replacement

market. This along with a significant original equipment (OE) presence

has made the company a force to reckon with in the Agricultural tyres

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market. The company also assumed technological leadership by

becoming the first Indian tyre manufacturer to commercially launch farm

radials.

Sales volume in the LCV and passenger car tyre segment also

registered high double digit growth. During the year ended the company

launched tubeless passenger car radials in the market.

Maximising customers benefit the customers benefit the company

rolled out attractive consumer promotions during the year to WOO the

end customer. For instance for the launch of Farm radials “Farm King”

the company held mega events in the hinterland. These offered a suitable

platforms to present the distinctive feartures of tyres to the end

customers-farmers.

In the open market economy when established brands are viewed

as prime assets of a company fuelling future growth, the company takes

pride in establishing well acclaimed brands as loadstar Super, XT-7,

Amar, Milestar, Krishak Super in the commercial & farm segment &

Amar in the passenger vehicle segment as prime asset brand of the

company.

3.2 (i) EXPORTS

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The export of the company’s product registered impressive growth

during the year under review. The growth has been achieved in an

industry that is facing fierce competition both from within the country as

well as form outside, particularly from Chinese manufacturer of tyres.

During the year, the exports of passenger radial tyres have been

successfully commenced and exports volumes to Middle East, Pakistan,

Africa & South East Asia were significantly increased.

3.2 (j) EXPANSION PROGRAMME/FUTURE OUTLOOK

The farm radial project was completed on time during the year

under review. The product lunched by the company has been well

achieved in the market and initial tests have reported that the mileasge of

these tyres are 60% more than that of the bias tyre.

During the year under review the capacity of perambra plant was

progressively increased from 132 MT to 147 MT per day. In order to fill

up the demand supply gap the company has embarked upon an expansion

plan.

The company is also setting up a pilot truck radial facility at

Baroda. In addition, the existing capacity of passenger & LCV radials is

also being increased.

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3.2 (k) ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE PROFILE

ATL has a formal organisational structure. As far as decentralisation

is concerned the company has taken care to ensure that proper authority is

delegated to proper positions in the organisation.

The company is headed by a Board of Directors. This board had 14

members of which one is the chairman and another one is the Vice-

Chairman & managing director. Rest 12 members are the directors of the

company. Apart from them there is company Secretary, Auditors &

Bankers are also included.

The dignitaries of the board are the company and following:

BOARD OF DIRECTOR AS ON YEAR 2003-2004

Chairman-cum-MD : Onkar S. Kanwar

Chief Operating Officer

& Whole Time Director : Neeraj Kanwar

Chief (Proj. & Corp. Affairs

& Whole Time Director : U. S. Oberoi

Director Nominated :

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UTI : Anil Khanna

K. Jacob Thomas

Kerala Govt. : L. Radhakrishnan

M. R. B. Punja

Vinod Roy.

SBI : M. Y. Ravade

Directors : Nimeseh N. KampaniO. P. GuptaRobert SteinetzShardul S. Stroff

Company Secretary : R. N. Wahat

Auditors : Fraser & Ross

Bankers :

SBI, BOI, BOB, PNJ, SB Mysore, SB Patiala, SB Travanacore,

ICICI Bank, UBI, Federal Bank Ltd.

Hierarchical structure of Marketing & Sales Department

Head Sales

Truck Penta WM

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Z1 Z2 Z3 Z4 Z5

NE B WB A O

DM1 DM2 DM3 DM4 DM5 DM6 DM7

AM1 AM2

Note : WM- Works Manager; Z1 – Zone One; NE – North East; B– Bihar;

WB – West Bengal; A – Assam; O – Orissa; DM1 – Distric Manager – 1;

AM1 – Area Manager – 1

3.3 PRODUCT PROFILE

Tyre is a circular cushion of rubber that fits around the rim of a

wheel of a vehicle. It provides tractors and cushions the vehicle from

shocks caused by the movement over hard surfaces. The most common

tyre is pneumatic rubber tyre.

Tyre are basically of two types –

(a) Cross ply or Bias tyres.

(b) Radial tyres.

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In cross ply or bias tyres, nylon or rayon tyre cords are arranged

diagonally across.

In radial tyre polyesters, nylon, fiberglass or steel cords are arranged

perpendicular to the circumference.

Radial technology is an improvement over cross ply and radially

tyres are priced at (of 25-30%) premium. They are long lasting & having

lower incidence of flats.

3.3 (a) COMPONENTS OF TYRE

a) BEAD: The part of tyre shaped to fit the rim and hold the tyre to

it.

b) TREAD : The part of the tyre which covers in contact with the

road and is made of special rubber compounds.

c) SIDE WALL : The part of the tyre between the tread and bead

d) SIDE WALL RUBBER : The rubber layer on the side wall of the

tyre and over the carcass.

Page 32: Chapter

e) CARCASS : The rubber bounded cord structure of a tyre integral

with the bead and containing the inflation pressure.

f) CORD : The textile & non-textile threads used in various tyres

carcass, plies & breaks, etc.

g) PLY : A layer of rubber coated fabric cords.

h) BREAKER : Intermediate rubberized fabric layers between the

carcass & the tread.

3.3 (b) TYRE PATTERNS

1. RIB Pattern : Used mainly on front driven axle because of

steering response

2. LUG Pattern : Used mostly on rear driven axle for heavy

haulage and long distance operations.

3. SEMI LUG Pattern : Can be used both on rear as well as

front axle.

4. M & S Pattern : Known as Mud Snow pattern and mostly

used on rough roads.

Page 33: Chapter

3.3 (c) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

In the tyre industry Apollo can boast of having one of the widest

ranges of the product to be offered by any organisations in the Industry. It

has tyres for all types of Trucks/Bus/Jeep/LCV/Car/ Tractor which can be

observed from the list given below :

Tyres for Buses & Trucks

Sizes & Pattern Application

1. 10.00 – 20 18 PR for load LUG

Loadstar Super

2. 10.00 – 20 18 PR for load LUG

8.25 – 20 14 PR

3. 10.00 – 20 16 PR XT-7 Gold for load & Mileage

(Hi Med load)

10.00 – 20 16 PR XT-7 for load & mileage

9.00 – 20 16 PR XT-7

4. 10.00 – 20 16 PR Commando for load & mileage

(Lo-med load)

5. 12.00 – 20 18 PR Hauling for load & mileage

Page 34: Chapter

(Lo-med load)

11.00 – 20 16 PR Hauling for load & mileage

(Lo-med load)

10.00 – 20 16 PR Hauling for load & mileage

(Lo-med load)

6. 10.00 – 20 16 AT LUG for mileage

9.00 – 20 16 PR AT LUG for mileage

7. 10.00 – 20 16 PR Champion for mileage

8. 10.00 – 20 16 PR Amar dlx Hi mileage (Optimum refread bulb)

9.00 – 20 16 PR Amar dlx Hi mileage

(Optimum refread bulb)

9. 10.00 – 20 - 16 PR Amar Hi mileage

(Optimum refread bulb)

10. 9.00 – 20 16 PR 3R Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

11. 9.00 - 20 16 per Super RIB Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

Page 35: Chapter

12. 10.00 – 20 16 PR aT – Rib Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

13. 12.00 – 20 18 PR Cargomiler Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

11.00 – 20 16 Cargomiler Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

8.25 – 20 14 PR Cargomiler Optimum Mileage

(Hi– retreadibility) RIB

14. 10.00 – 20 16 PR ST – 5 Semilug & Mining

9.00 – 20 16 PR ST – 5 Semilug & Mining

15. 9.00 – 20 16 PR Rockmaster Semilug & Mining

Light Commercial Vehicle

16. 7.50 – 16 16 PR Milestar LCV

8.25 - 16 14 PR Milestar LCV

17. 7.50 – 16 16 PR Loadstar Super LCV

18. 7.50 – 16 16 PR XT – 9 LCV

19. 7.50 – 16 16 PR Champion LCV

Page 36: Chapter

20. 7.50 – 16 16 PR Amar LCV

7.00 – 15 12 PR Amar LCV

21. 7.50 – 16 16 PR Amar Dlx LCV

8.25 – 16 16 PR Amar Dlx LCV

Jeep

22. 6.00 – 16 Mahatrooper Jeep

23. 6.00 - 16 Trooper Jeep

6.40 – 15 Trooper Jeep

24. 6.00 - 16 Gripper Jeep

Farm Tyres

25. 12.4 – 28 Farmking (Radial) Tractor rear

26. 9.5 - 24 Krishak Super – Rear Tractor Rear

12.4 – 28 Krishak Super – Rear Tractor Rear

13.6 – 28 Krishak Super – Rear Tractor Rear

16.9 – 28 Krishak Super – Rear Tractor Rear

18.4 – 30 Krishak Super – Rear Tractor Rear

Page 37: Chapter

27. 12.4 – 28 Power Haul Tractor Rear

13.6 – 28 Power Haul Tractor Rear

16.9 – 28 Power Haul Tractor Rear

28. 12.4 – 28 Krishak Premium Tractor Rear

29. 6.00 – 16 Krishak Super Front Tractor Front

6.50 – 20 Krishak Super Front Tractor Front

7.50 – 16 Krishak Super Front Tractor Front

30. 9.00 – 16 Dhruv Tractor Trailor

31. 6.00 – 19 Bhim Animal driven Vehicle

7.00 – 19 Bhim Animal driven Vehicle

8.00 – 19 Bhim Animal driven Vehicle

Cars

32. Amazer XL 4 rib Car Radial

33. Amazer XL 5 rib Car Radial

34. Storm Radial

35. 7.00 R 15 Duramile Car Radial

36. Amazer Steel Car Radial

37. Amazer Radial

38. 4.50 – 12 Armour Car Bias5.90 – 15 Armour Car Bias

Page 38: Chapter

5.20 – 14 Armour Car Bias5.60 – 13 Armour Car Bias5.65 –12 Armour Car Bias

39. 4.50 – 12 Panther Car Bias

F 78 – 15 Panther Car Bias

The Pattern nomenclature indicates many features & characteristics

of the concerned tyre. e.g. If the nomenclature of the tyre is 7.50. 16 16

PR LCV it mean following.

7.50 16 16PR LCV

Vehicle Category LCV

Ply Rating

Nominal rum diameter

Nominal section width

Chapter – 4

Data Analysis &

Interpretation

Page 39: Chapter

This research was aimed at finding the market share, brand

preference, brand in use, buying behaviour, satisfaction level about

Apollo Farm & Jeep tyres.

The questionnaire was aimed at the owners of Jeep & Tractors who

are the customers of farm & Jeep tyre. Because tyres are purchased by

owners and there is no role of driver in pruchase of tyres.

In the jeep tyre segment a total of 200 samples were randomly

selected and directly interviewed for the research. The questionnaire was

repared to obtain from the respondents the maximum amount of relevant

& unbiased information on the concerned issue. A copy of questionnaire

is also enclosed.

In the farm tyre segment a total 400 samples were selected and

directly interviewed for the research.

Because the survey area was vast and distant as well as remote the

researcher tried its best to reach every nook & corner to collect sample so

that any biased ness can be minimised. The data was collected in the

stands – in the case of jeep tyre and on the farms & villages as well as

Hauling stations & Brick kilns in the case of farm tyres.

Page 40: Chapter

4.1 DATA ANALYSIS ABOUT JEEP TYRES

(a) On the issue of tyre using at present

Location/ Tyre MRF Apollo JK Other Total

Danapur 20 12 16 12 60

Maner 15 9 19 7 50

Bihta 12 13 18 7 50

Ara 18 10 14 8 50

Bikram / Pali 9 6 12 4 30

Buxar 28 7 12 3 50

Bikramganj 19 4 8 9 40

Piro 12 3 2 3 20

Page 41: Chapter
Page 42: Chapter

(b) On the issue of preference

Location/ Tyre MRF Apollo JK Other Total

Danapur 20 12 16 12 60

Maner 15 9 19 7 50

Bihta 12 13 18 7 50

Ara 18 10 14 8 50

Bikram / Pali 9 6 12 4 30

Buxar 28 7 12 3 50

Bikramganj 20 8 7 5 40

Piro 8 9 1 2 20

Page 43: Chapter

Apollo

(c) Factors considered during purchase of tyres.

Of the 350 respondents interviewed 60% respondent in favour of

quality & lasting, 20% favoured price, 15% favoured word of mouth & 5%

favoured other factors.

Page 44: Chapter
Page 45: Chapter

(d) Average life of the tyre

The average life of the tyre was found to be one year.

(e) Use of Resole Tyres

45% respondents use resole tyres whereas 55% are reluctant to use

it.

Page 46: Chapter

(f) Ply – 70% respondents use 8 ply, 30% respondents use 10 ply.

Page 47: Chapter

(g) Awareness Level About Apollo

Location/ Tyre Total Resp. Aware Not Aware

Danapur 60 42 18

Maner 50 38 12

Bihta 50 26 24

Ara 50 26 14

Bikram / Pali 40 23 17

Buxar 30 15 15

Bikramganj 50 26 24

Piro 40 10 30

Total 350 216 154

Page 48: Chapter

Aware

(h) Satisfaction Level

Satisfied – 70% Not Satisfied – 30%

Page 49: Chapter

4.2 DATA ANALYSIS REGARDING FARM TYRES

Total Samples – 500

LOCATION / TYRE SAMPLE COLLECTED

Danapur 50

Maner 100

Bihta 50

Ara 50

Piro 50

Naubatpur 50

Pali 75

Bikram 75

Page 50: Chapter

(a) Tyre Using At Present

Location/Tyre Apollo GY Others Total

Danapur 18 20 4 50

Maner 35 40 12 100

Bihta 18 20 3 50

Ara 8 23 8 50

Piro 16 16 12 50

Naubatpur 15 20 5 50

Pali 12 33 11 75

Bikram 23 34 7 75

Page 51: Chapter

Apollo

(b) Tyres Preferred

Location/Tyre Apollo GY Others Total

Danapur 20 22 2 50

Maner 40 43 7 100

Bihta 20 21 3 50

Ara 8 23 4 50

Piro 17 20 7 50

Naubatpur 18 20 12 50

Pali 12 25 - 75

Bikram 30 30 15 75

Page 52: Chapter
Page 53: Chapter

(c) Awareness Level About Apollo Farm Tyres

LOCATION/TYRE TOTAL RESP. AWARE NOT AWARE

Danapur 50 36 14

Maner 100 72 28

Bihta 50 37 13

Ara 50 24 26

Piro 50 26 24

Naubatpur 50 30 20

Pali 75 30 45

Bikram 75 51 24

Page 54: Chapter

Aware

(d) People Aware & Not Aware Apollo Farm Tyres

LOCATION/TYRE AWARE USING

Danapur 36 26

Maner 72 54

Bihta 37 25

Ara 24 10

Piro 26 18

Naubatpur 30 15

Pali 34 20

Bikram 51 38

Page 55: Chapter

Aware

Page 56: Chapter

Chapter – 5

Conclusion & Suggestions

Having done the market survey & research analysis of various

factors some conclusions can now be drawn the concerned issue; the

topic of the Research. These conclusions are scientifically reached upon

as is evident form the analysis itself. There are margins of the errors in

the research process, especially in data collection. But that does not take

away the importance of the research. In fact, there is always an

acceptable limit of margin of error and if the researchers respect this

limit, the research is bound to be successful in a addressing the issue.

In this particular research, every effort was taken to ensure that the

research remained within the acceptable parameter. This discipline and

carefulness yielded some invaluable results and conclusions.

(A) Results & Conclusions of Jeep

(B) Results & Conclusions of Farm tyres.

5.1 CONCLUSION

Page 57: Chapter

(a) RESULT & CONCLUSION OF JEEP TYRES

1. MRF is the leading brand in the jeep segment followed by JK tyres

& Apollo.

2. Jeep owners prefer MRF as the first priority followed by Apollo &

JK tyre respectively.

3. Most Jeep drivers / owners make their purchase on quality rather

than on price.

4. The average life of jeep tyres was found to be one year.

5. Most of the respondents don’t use resole tyres.

6. Most jeep drivers use 8 ply rather than 10 ply tyres.

7. Awareness level is not very good in the western Bihar side.

8. Most of the aware respondents have used Apollo.

9. Most of the respondents who have used Apollo are very satisfied

with the performance of the tyre.

10. The problems of Apollo users are following-

a) Problems with regards to settlement of claim.

b) Problem with regard to lack of adequate promotional

schemes.

c) Dissatisfaction shown by dealers of the company regarding

delivery of tyres & gifts, etc.

d) Dissatisfied dealers are selling multiple brands.

Page 58: Chapter

11. The suggestion from the consumers to the tyre company are

following:

(a) They should reduce the price.

(b) Consumers should be given the benefits of promotional schemes.

(c) There should be fast proper settlement of claims

(b) RESULTS & CONCLUIONS OF FARM TYRES

1. Most of the respondents use Goodyear tyres in the rear axle

followed by Apollo and MRF.

2. Most of the respondents prefer Goodyear tyres in the rear axle

followed by Apollo and MRF.

3. Most of the subjects buy tyres on the basis of quality & lasting

while very few give priority to price and some rely on word of

mouth publicity.

4. The average life of each tyres was found to be more than three

years.

5. Awareness level is average but not satisfying about the farm tyres.

6. Of the aware respondents maximum were using Apollo tyresa in

the rear axle.

7. Very less number of respondents use resole tyres.

Page 59: Chapter

8. 90% of the respondents who are using Apollo tyres are very much

satisfied with the performance.

9. The problems of Apollo users were with regard to lack of adequate

promotional schemes. Dealers do not provide adequate information

in the support of Apollo brands. They see their margin of profit.

The suggestions from the consumers to the tyre companies are

following :-

(a) They should reduce the price.

(b) Consumers should be given benefits of promotional schemes.

5.2 SUGGESTIONS

The Indian tyre industry is passing through the phase of

toughest competition. In fact, this is the case with every industry. With

the globalisation and liberalization striking India in the last decade, all

the industries have been facing cut throat competitions. Domestic players

have been duly threatened by the arrival of the multi-nationals in every

space of business.

This has resulted in new offerings being made to the consumers.

There have been price wars too. No doubt the biggest winner has been

the customer. He how has the quality products at compatible price.

Page 60: Chapter

In order to survive & grow each company tries to make its

products and services more distinguishable. Tyre industry is no

exception, with each company offering new product and trying to

develop better marketing strategies.

For this it must have an understanding of buyers preferences and

buying behaviour. Buying behaviour of consumers is a complex

phenomenon to understand, but its knowledge gives the market a definite

edge over his competitors.

ATL, one of the leading companies of tyre trade has a good brand

image, a large market share and a wide product range is definitely aware

of the importance of these factors as is evident from its achievement in

the tyre industry despite recessionary trends.

None the less there are some steps which the company needs to

take in order to improve its market share in Western Bihar as revealed by

the results of this survey.

Page 61: Chapter

So, the researcher has following suggestions for the company

which they believe will definitely improve the performance of the

organisation in the demographical area of Western Bihar.

5.2 (a) SUGGESTION WITH REGARD TO JEEP TYRES

1. A proper strategy should be aimed at the dealer in order to make

them participative in the marketing process.

2. Various promotional schemes like Hoardings, Banners, Leaflets,

etc. in the various jeep stands will be helpful in increasing the

awareness level of consumers.

3. Various trade promotions in the form of buying allowances display

allowances, count-recount allowances, delayed bulling, inventory

financing, etc. should be used by ATL to motivate the customers to

perceive the brand.

4. In many parts of western Bihar areas, roads are in a bad condition

& Jeep owners have to replace their tyres frequently. Company can

target those areas by appointing dealers & pushing the brands,

which are on cheaper side.

5. The company should organise road – campaigns in order to impart

technical knowledge to the consumers & general public.

Page 62: Chapter

6. After sales service should be improved considerably in order to

incorporate maximum consumers.

5.2 (b) SUGGESTIONS WITH REGARD TO FARM TYRE

1. Since in the geographical area of western Bihar many of the

tractors are used both in the hauling purpose as well as Farming

purposes. In the months of January to June. Tractors are used in

loading purpose. From June when monsoon arrives these tractors

are used in farming process. So the company may target both the

areas i.e. loading stations such as Brick kilns, sand-post, chip

factory, etc. as well as villages where farming is carried out.

2. The scheme Tyre Suraksha Bima launched by the company is a

very good scheme to establish its farm tyre brand in the market.

The problem here is that leave alone consumers. Dealers are not

aware about the scheme. So a training programme should be

organised at least once in a month providing every updates of the

company’s strategies to them. By this they will feel their

participation in the organisation & thus promote the Apollo brands.

Page 63: Chapter

3. Company should improve the distribution network & should

minimise the delivery time. The late delivery creates

dissatisfaction to customers in urgent need & ultimately he

switches over to other brands.

4. The promotional schemes like Road shows, posters, hoardings,

banners, leaflets, gifts, etc. in the villages as well as Brick kilns,

sand ports or chip-stands ports or chip-stands etc.

5. Besides the above promotional schemes the company should make

use of radio used by many villagers as a source of promotional

compaign.

6. Company should try to associate with tractor companies at

Regional level. This is so because they organise free service camps

in different areas on different days & the company may erect stall

or use direct selling to those customers.

Page 64: Chapter

Chapter – 6

Report About Sales

Campaigning of

Farm Tyres in Western Bihar

After the market study was conducted we were assigned the task to

carry out the sales campaigning of the ATL with special reference to

Apollo Farm Tyres Series.

The campaigning was organised by the company to promote its

new series of Apollo farm tyres such as

(1) Farm king : India’s first radial tractor etc.

(2) Krishak Super

(3) Krishak premium

(4) Powerhaul

(5) Sarpanch

(6) Krishak Super – front.

The campaigning was in a form of road show better known as

Nautanki. This Nautanki was based on a story related to Mahabharata.

Page 65: Chapter

Lord Narada comes to a pay a vistit to the Pandavas. When he reached to

Pandeavs – Yudhishthir tells him that he has deputed all the brothers

including himself to go to villages & work for the welfare of farmers. At

the same time Bhisma Pitamah requests Narada to survey the farmer of

earth & ask that what are the steps necessary for the welfare. Narada

arrives to villages & after survey he found that Apollo tyres is the main

reason of the happiness of farmers. He recommended this to Bhisma

Pitamah to use the same. Thus the story ends.

This story is followed by the magic show which was organised

primiarliy for drawing the attention of farmer in villages. At last a quiz

was organised related to the Nautanki & informations about tyres.

Successful respondents were given gifts from the company.

This compaign was organised for one week in western Bihar

comprising the following districts (town & villages).

1. Danapur

2. Maner

3. Bihta

4. Ara

5. Jagdishpur

6. Bihiya

7. Sonebarsha

8. piro

Page 66: Chapter

9. Kochas

10. Naubatpur

11. Bikram

12. Pali

13. Buxar

14. Bikramganj

15. Brahmapur

We targeted those areas where tractors were available in bulk to that

maximum advantage could be taken from the campaign. We personally

provided information regarding the questions of the farmers. Many of

them were excited about the Farm King which is Indias first radial tractor

tyre. They also shown interests towards Krishak Super & Krishak

premium & powerful tyres.

Added with the scheme of tyres Suraksha Bima which provides

unconditional warrantee on tyres for any defects due to which tyre can’t

be used, in between three years of 50% trade erosion whichever occurs

earlier, many primary customers were formed which will be the future

prospect.

Since farm tyres are relatively new products in its segment. Most

of the people were unaware about the tyres as well as unconditional

Page 67: Chapter

warrantee provided by the company. Dealers were also unaware of these

schemes which shows company’s poor promotional strategy.

Since sales campaigning was started at the time when monsoon

was going to be started and the appropriate time for farmers to change

their tyre, it provided a great help in imparting informations about

company’s product to the farmers & customers. It will certainly help in

increasing the sales output of the company.

The company should try to make a consistence effort to carry on

such type of campaigns so that every customers become aware of the

products & services provided by the company.

UNSTOPPABLE..............

Page 68: Chapter

Bibliography

Marketing Management : Philip Kotler, Johnson

Marketing Research : G. N. Bajpayee

Marketing Strategy : Johnson & Scholes

& Business Policy

Websites : www.apollotyres.com

Journals & Magazines : Newsletter, ATL, Feb. & March

2004

Annual Report, ATL, 2003-04

Business World,

The Economic Times.

Page 69: Chapter

SURVEY ON LCV TYRES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO

APOLLO TYRRES

NAME OF THE

DRIVER .....................................................................................

OPERATING

STAND ............................................................................................

VEHICLE

NO .........................................................................................................

NAME THE

OWNER ............................................................................................

ADDRESS .....................................................................................................

.........

TEL.

NO. ...............................................................................................................

MOBILE

NO........................................................................................................

ROUTES

OPERATING........................................................................................

Page 70: Chapter

1. Which tyre are you using right now ?

(a) MRF (b) CEAT (c) JK Tyre (d) Apollo tyre (e) Any other

2. Which Tyre do you prefer ?

(a) MRF (b) CEAT (c) JK Tyre (d) Apollo tyre (e) Any other

3. What factors do you consider during purchase of Tyres ?

(a) Quality (b) Price (c) lasting (d) suitability (e) Credibility (f) any

other

4. What is the average life of the tyre, which you are using ?

(a) 6 months (b) One Year (c) One year or more

5. Do you use resole tyres ?

(a) Yes (b) No

6. What ply do you use in tyres ?

(a) 8 Ply (b) 10 Ply

7. Are you aware that APOLLO TYRES is manufacturing JEEP and

TRACTGOR tyres ?

(a) Yes (b) No

Page 71: Chapter

8. Do you have used/using Apollo Tyres ?

(a) Yes (b) No

9. Are you satisfied with the performance of Apollo tyres ?

(a) Yes (b) No

10. If no, then what are the complains ?

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

11. Any Suggestions

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

12. Remarks:

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

(Interviewer) Date ......................

Page 72: Chapter

SURVEY ON TRACTOR TYRES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO

APOLLO TYRES

Survey conducted by Mr. Kumar Niraj (I.M.T., Study Centre, Patna)

NAME OF THE FARMER/

OWNER .........................................................................

........................................................................................................................

..............

VILLAGE: .....................................................................................................

.............

DISTRICT: ....................................................................................................

.............

ADDRESS: ....................................................................................................

.............

.......................................................................................................

...........

TYPE OF

TRACTOR ................................................................................................

Vehicle

No: .................................................................................................................

TEL. NO. ...............................................

CODE .......................................................

Page 73: Chapter

MOBILE

NO. ..............................................................................................................

1. Which tyre are you using right now?

(a) MRF (b) CEAT (c) JK Tyre (d) Apollo tyre (e) Goodyear (f) Any

other......

2. Which Tyre do you prefer?

(a) MRF (b) CEAT (c) JK Tyre (d) Apollo tyre (e) Goodyear (f) Any

other......

3. What factors do you consider during purchase of Tyres ?

(a) Quality (b) Price (c) lasting (d) suitability (e) Credibility (f)

Rumors

(g) any other

4. What is the average life of the tyre, which you are using ?

(a) 6 months (b) One Year (c) Two Year (d) Three Year (e) Three or more

5. Do you use resole tyres ?

(a) Yes (b) No

Page 74: Chapter

6. Are you aware that APOLLO TYRES is manufacturing TRACTOR

tyres?

(a) Yes (b) No

7. Do you have used/using Apollo Tyres?

(a) Yes (b) No

8. Are you satisfied with the performance of Apollo Tyres?

(a) Yes (b) No

9. If no, then what are the complains?

..............................................................................................................

...........

..............................................................................................................

...........

10. Any Suggestions :

..............................................................................................................

...........

..............................................................................................................

...........

11. Remarks:

Page 75: Chapter

..............................................................................................................

...........

..............................................................................................................

...........

Date: ......................

APOLLO TYRES LTD.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

This is to certify that Mr. KUMAR NIRAJ, a participant of PGDBM

(MARKETING). Session 2001-2004 from Institute of Management

Technology, Ghaziabad has undergone Project (Training) in our

organisation. The topic of the study was “ MARKET STUDY OF JEEP

TYRES AND FARM TYRES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO

APOLLO TYRES IN WESTERN BIHAR AND SALES

CAMPAIGNING REGARDING APOLLO FARM TYRES IN

WERSTERN BIHAR.”

Page 76: Chapter

He is very sincere & willing to learn more and more. During the project

work he has taken all the responsibilities on his shoulders to make project

successful in all respects.

This project is a successful attempt in blending conceptual dimensions

with practical implications.

I wish him all success in corporate world.

STATE MANAGER

Apollo Tyres Ltd. Rukunpura, Bailey Road, Near Canal, Patna-800014

Phone No: 0612 2593726/2593727/2595770/2595778

Acknowledgement

The report on the research work of “Market Study of Farm Tyres &

Jeep Tyres with Special Reference to Apollo Tyres And Sales

Campaigning in West Bihar” in the following pages is the outcome of my

research study done chiefly at the Western Bihar. It has been planned &

executed under valuable & sympathetic guidance of Mr. Dharmendra

Kumar Singh visiting faculty of IMT STUDY CENTRE, PATNA.

Page 77: Chapter

I also acknowledge my deep sense of gratitude to management team

& staffs of the Apollo Tyrres Ltd., Patna who made available their

valuable time & their constant encouragement to me.

It gives me immense pleasure in paying my reverence to my parents

for his inspiration & Motivation.

I also acknowledge the support provided by my family & friends in

this regard.

I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Rajeev Ranjan,

GRAPHIX, Patna for typing the manuscript of this report in a decent way.

At the end I acknowledge the blessing of almighty GOD.

Kumar Niraj

Preface

This project report titled A market study of farm tyres & Jeep tyres

with special reference to Apollo Tyres & Sales Campaigning in West

Page 78: Chapter

Bihar” is an attempt in presenting the current market condition about the

sale of tyre industry. In more than one sense it summarises the results of

survey, study & analysis and sales campaigning.

The tyre industry is the backbone of the transport sector so this study

become relevant. Also in this era of sweeping economic reforms,

liberalisation & globalisation of the economy, these type of studies provide

an opportunity for the management trainees to observe the actual

marketing practices.

An introduction about industry scenario has been given in chapter

one which provides the information about consumer behaviour & market

conditions. The project has been done with the help of various research

plans. A detail has been provided in Chapter-2. The Indian Tyre Industry is

passing through a phase of great transformation and the Indian tyre

companies are facing the competition with great commitment. This can be

known by the performance of Apollo Tyres Ltd., Patna. A brief profile has

been provided in Chapter-3. The outcome of data & suggestion has been

prepared carefully which has been provided in Chapter-4.

A report on sales campaigning in Western Bihar regarding farm

Tyres has also been provided in Chapter-6

Page 79: Chapter

Lastly, the researcher owns the entire responsibility of the facts &

analysis as also the error, if any. Because there always remain a chance of

human error and biasedness can’t be avoided. Despite this a great care has

been taken while preparing this report.

Kumar Niraj

CONTENTS

Page

Chapter-1 Rationale & Scope of The Study

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Aim of The Study

1.3 Scope of The Study

Chapter-2 Details of Research Plan

2.1 Study of Methodology

2.2 Research Design

2.3 Sources of Data

2.4 Sample

Page 80: Chapter

2.5 Limitations

Chapter-3 The Tyre Industry & Apollo Tyres Ltd.-An Overview

3.1 Industry Profile

3.2 Organisational Profile

3.3 Product Profile

Chapter-4 Data Analysis & Interpretations

4.1 Data Analysis of Jeep Tyres

4.2 Data Analysis of Farm Tyre

Chapter-5 Conclusions & Suggestions

5.1 Conclusions

5.2 Suggestions

Chapter-6 Report About Sales Campaigning of Farm

Tyres in West Bihar

Appendices

I : Copy of Questionnaire of Jeep Tyres & Farm tyres

II : Appendix

III : Bibliography

Page 81: Chapter

IV : Product Display