LOCATION ORIENTATION AND ACCESSIBILITY OF PETROL STATIONS IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

The importance of petrol products has continued to gain prominence, hence it is one of the key business ventures that keep developing and attracting competitiveness in Africa. The paper examined location orientation and accessibility of petrol stations in South Eastern Nigeria. The paper was underpinned on central place theory. The paper adopted survey research design. The population was infinite. Simple random sampling was used in selecting 18 petrol filling stations in Abia, Anambra and Imo states. A sample size of 380 was generated using Cochran formula for unknown population. A structured questionnaire was the major instrument of data collection. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, standard deviations and aggregate score, while hypothesis was tested using Pearson correlation analysis through the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The findings revealed amongst others that a significant positive relationship exist between location orientation and accessibility in the petrol stations in South Eastern Nigeria at (p-value=.024). The paper concluded that that proper location is very important in sitting a petrol business. Where it is negleted, there bound to be low patronage that could manifests in poor turnover and possible profit. However, the paper recommeded amongst others those Petrol stations should be built in a reasonable visible distance devoid of bends and unfriendly topography where customers can sight and access the stations unhindered. This can be done in a well-spaced, decongested, convenient and central place without neglecting the importance of safety.