When conducting a filling station competitor survey, there are several key things to consider.
Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Location and Proximity: Identify the locations of competing filling stations in relation to your target market. Evaluate their proximity to major roads, highways, intersections, residential areas, commercial centers, and other points of interest. Consider how accessible they are to potential customers.
Branding and Positioning: Assess the branding and positioning strategies of your competitors. Look at their brand identity, logos, signage, and marketing materials. Understand how they differentiate themselves from other filling stations and the target market they cater to.
Fuel Offerings and Pricing: Examine the fuel offerings and pricing strategies of your competitors. Analyze the types of fuel they provide, such as regular, premium, diesel, or alternative fuels. Evaluate their pricing structure and whether they offer discounts, loyalty programs, or other incentives.
Convenience Store Services: Evaluate the convenience store services offered by your competitors. Look at the range of products they sell, such as snacks, beverages, automotive supplies, and other convenience items. Assess the quality of their offerings, pricing, and any unique services they provide.
Additional Amenities: Identify any additional amenities or services provided by your competitors. This could include car wash facilities, automotive repair services, food and beverage options, ATMs, or partnerships with local businesses. Evaluate the popularity and customer satisfaction of these services.
Customer Experience: Gather information about the customer experience at competitor filling stations. This can be done through customer feedback, online reviews, or personal observations. Consider factors such as cleanliness, staff friendliness, efficiency of service, and overall customer satisfaction.
Market Share and Reputation: Assess the market share and reputation of your competitors. Research their history, longevity in the market, and customer perception. Look for any news or controversies related to their operations or services.
Promotions and Marketing: Analyze the promotional activities and marketing strategies employed by your competitors. Look for any advertising campaigns, special promotions, or partnerships they have undertaken. Understand how they communicate with their target audience and attract customers.
Online Presence: Examine the online presence of your competitors. Evaluate their websites, social media profiles, and online reviews. Look for any unique features or digital marketing efforts they employ to engage with customers.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors. Assess their competitive advantages, such as prime locations, strong brand recognition, loyal customer base, or superior customer service.
Also, look for any areas where they may be lacking or underperforming.
By conducting a comprehensive competitor survey, you can gain valuable insights into the market landscape, understand your competitors' strategies, and identify opportunities for differentiation and improvement. This information will help inform your own business strategy and decision-making process.