Retail oil industry 'is changing dramatically'

A new report from NPD Group notes the different factors that play a part in determining the success of consumer-facing organisations within the downstream oil industry.

The analyst has expanded on its existing coverage of the downstream oil industry, allowing it to investigate consumers' sentiments more closely.

It has discovered that some consumers have a preferred brand, which is determined by a combination of environmental friendliness, community involvement and trust.

Others select their brand based on the quality of the fuel supplied, including issues such as cleaning abilities, vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

David Portalatin, industry analyst for NPD's automotive market research, says: "Today's retail fuels marketplace is changing in a dramatic fashion.

"Consumers are keeping cars longer, which has renewed their focus on performance and quality."

NPD Group has tracked buying trends in the automotive market for more than two decades, aiming to provide the insight required for industry leaders to serve their customers' needs.