First Part

DESIGN OF THE STUDY FOR MBA MAJOR PROJECT WORK
CUSTOMER PREFERENCE TOWARDS

“THANIMA” COCONUT OIL
A STUDY WITH SPECIAL REFERNCE TO MAJOR
SUPERMARKETS IN THRISSUR CITY
SUBMITTED BY
ASWATHY VELAYUDHAN
(2008-31-117)
MBA 4th SEMESTER
UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

DR. A.T. FRANCIS
ASSISTANT LIBRARIAN
COLLEGE OF HORTICULTURE, KAU
COLLEGE OF CO-OPERATION, BANKING AND MANAGEMENT

KERALA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
VELLANIKKARA, THRISSUR
CHAPTER 1
DESIGN OF THE STUDY
Introduction
Marketing is the process used by an organization to develop an overall product

market strategy. Modern marketing concept lies in the fact that the business should be
directed towards the satisfaction of the consumers. Now the consumer has become the
key factor that determines the success or failure of any organization. A satisfied
customer is the biggest asset of the organization. The success or failure of the product
in the market often depends on the ability of the markets to correctly perceive and
predict the dynamic nature of the consumers. So modern marketing requires a
thorough understanding of consumer behavior and buying motivations.
Consumer behavior reflects the totality of consumer decision with respect to

acquisition, consumption, and disposition of goods, services, time and ideas by
decision -making units. It also include whether, why, when, were, how, how much
and how often and how long consumer will use or dispose of an offering. To
understand the consumers are not early jobs as his behavior is mostly unique and
unpredictable. This has made the terms to step in to the shoes of the consumers and
understand from the point of view selection and purchase of products and services.
Marketers need to identify the end-users of the product, services and frame marketing
plans than considering the wholesalers and retailers who actually are the
intermediaries in the process of purchase. Marketers therefore should consider the
consumers and then develop their plans of action. Here lies the essence of marketing.
Consumer is the king and all actions should start with this notion in mind.
Sterling Coconut Oils & Cakes (P) Ltd. Thrissur, popularly known as
‘Thanima’ is a private enterprise. Thanima was established with an objective to
produce, supply and export fresh and pure coconut oil. The company strictly follows
the quality standards prescribed by AGMARK and ISO 9001:2000 Certification to
take on the challenges of globalization and international quality standards. Thanima
focused on a stable and reasonable return to their produce by integrating the activities
of production, processing and marketing. They converted coconut, into value added
products like copra and coconut oil and marketed it. There is better satisfaction
emphasis is that better the marketing, better the return to the company to consumers.
Coconut oil is extracted from the kernel or meat of matured coconut harvested
from the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). It has various applications in food, medicine,
and industry. What make coconut oil different from most of other dietary oils are the
basic building blocks or fatty acids making up the oil. Being one of the healthiest oils
on earth, it is used to treat a wide variety of health problems. Coconut oil improves
immune system and energy level, stabilize blood sugar, improve thyroid function and
it tastes great, too.
Statement of the problem
In today’s competitive environment companies are realizing that marketing is

not only the voice of the company but also tool with which information feedback can
be collected from the consumers for the marketers. It is important to recognize why
and how individuals make their consumption decisions, Thanima is facing stiff
competition from other major brands such as KPL Shudhi oil, Kera etc. Hence in
order to adopt new marketing techniques for increasing sale it is desirable to study the
preference of customers towards coconut oil.
The changing food habits and consumer preference of Keralities have opened
a new opportunity for the marketing of coconut oil in the Kerala state. People may not
think much about branded coconut oil vs. unbranded one as they are not aware of it or
they feel that it’s of high price. But once they experience the quality of the branded
product, they will be converted. There are many advantages the branded coconut oil
have over unbranded one – good quality, better packing, healthier, avoiding refined
carbohydrates, increased keeping quality and consuming whole foods etc.
The household consumers of Kerala are not only health conscious but also
price sensitive. The propensity among the consumers to shift from the consumption of
coconut oil to other edible oils is high when coconut oil price rise above the price of
other edible oils. Being a product of Kerala itself, Sterling Coconut Oil Cakes & Mills
(P) Ltd., have the responsibility to take adequate measures to sustain and promote the
household consumption of coconut oil. The study explored the product related
attributes (fragrance, flavor, durability etc) and market related attributes (price, size,
package, availability, etc) of coconut oil in order to provide adequate insight for
taking future decisions by Thanima.
However the marketing of coconut oil in the state still remains less studied.
Some case studies are mentioned here.
“Price behavior of major edible oils consumed in the households of Kerala

and promotional strategies of Coconut Development Board”. The study found that
there are fluctuations in the prices of coconut oil, palm oil, and sunflower oil. Due to
various external factors like changes in the world production and demand of these
oils, changes in the climatic conditions in the producing countries and internal
factors namely import duty charged by the government, production of oil seeds etc.
“Consumer’s preference towards branded coconut oil”. The study has

identified that the consumers give more importance to the quality of coconut oil,
which is the main reason why they prefer branded one. Brand awareness among the
consumer were also found fairly high, but limited to the geographical availability
level.
Objectives
• To study the customer preference towards Thanima coconut oil
• To examine the factors influencing customer preference
Methodology
Sample design
The supermarkets in Thrissur City area can be grouped as:
(i). Small and medium Super Markets having floor area of less than 2000
square feet; and
(ii) Large Super Markets having floor area of more than 3000 square feet.
There are total 60 super markets in Thrissur District (Source
http://www.thrissurkerala.com/). Out of this, 10 supermarkets are coming in the group
of large/major supermarkets. This study was carried out in all these 10 major
supermarkets in the Thrissur City area.
Data collection
Both primary and secondary data were collected for the study.
Primary data
Primary data for the study was collected through interview with the help of
prestructued schedule. Data on family details, income, education status, coconut oil
consumption, purchase pattern of oil, etc. were collected.
Observations made
• Socioeconomic profile of respondents

• Expenditure pattern
• Brand awareness
• Impact of Thanima’s promotional efforts on consumer’s demand.
• Quality, Price of coconut oil
• Brand loyalty and switching
• Product attributes.
• Currently used brand
• Reference groups like, friends, peers, relatives, etc.
• Segmentation of consumers into each income group
• Purpose wise use of the coconut oil
Study period
The study is based on primary data collected from sample respondents using a
prestructured schedule. The study was carried out during the period of October to
December 2010.
Study area and sampling procedure
For the purpose of study, all major supermarkets (10 numbers) were identified from
Thrissur City area. The service time of the supermarkets was divided into four time
zones as follows:
i. 9.00am to 12 noon
ii. 12 noon to 3.00pm
iii. 3.00pm to 6.00pm
iv. 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Five customers from each time zone, that is, total 20 customers, were identified from
each super market and collected data. The sample size comprised of 20 respondents
each from the 10 supermarkets constituting a total of 200 respondents.
Secondary data
The secondary data was collected from the published sources such as reports,
journals, periodicals, Internet and other Medias.
Analysis of data
The collected data were tabulated and analysed with the help of statistical tools such
as averages, scores, percentages, etc. To analyse the costumer preference towards
Thanima coconut oil and the factors influencing customer’s preference, questions
were graded on a five point scale. Response choices were given weightage in the
following manner.
Response score
Response Choice Scoring Weight

Strongly Agree 5
Agree 4
No opinion 3
Disagree 2
Strongly Disagree 1
The formula used for calculating the index (Kerlinger, 1970) is given below:
Total score of the statement
Index = x 100
Max. Score of the statement
Each respondent was asked to indicate the description that most suited feeling towards
the statements. The individual’s total attitude score is represented by the algebraic
summation of scores assigned to each statement. The objective was to make a
comparative evaluation of responses of different statements and to find out for which
all attributes the respondents have favorable opinion and for which all attributes the
respondents had unfavorable opinion.
Scope of the study
The findings of the study will help M/s Sterling Coconut Oils, Cakes and Mills (P)
Ltd. as well as its dealers to develop and expand their operational problems and to
take appropriate steps to improve their marketing activities by considering customer
tastes and preferences. This study will also help the organization to improve their
profit position. It is relevant to examine the consumption pattern of coconut oil in a
distinctive market to evaluate the present market activities of Thanima and the
essential measures to be taken to penetrate these markets. Hence the subject of study
brings out a key to forward planning for the next operating period.
The marketers can use the result of the study for improving the brand
awareness as well as brand image among customers. Based on that, they can adopt
better marketing strategies for making themselves competitive. The study of customer
preference is important for its marketing developments. The findings of the study can
be used to improve the oil sales of the company by adopting appropriate marketing
measures either by penetrating the existing market of its branded sales or by
exploiting new markets. In addition, helps to identify the market potential of coconut
oil over the other brands.
The customer preference towards branded oils, buying motives, their loyalty
towards a particular brand and switching from one brand to another would be taken
into account. The analysis based on the needs and wants will help to add value to
existing products and also to measure customer satisfaction. Thus marketers can
utilize the results of the study by positioning the attributes according to the
consumers’ as well as customers’ preference.
Limitations of the study
The following limitations have happened in the study:
• The time constraint stands as a barrier to cover a much larger sample,

hence the result of the study cannot be generalized
• Unavailability of accurate information from the customers
• The study included only major supermarkets in Thrissur city and so
customers of minor and medium supermarkets could not be included in the
study.
• The findings of the study are only indicative and hence cannot be
generalized for the district or state as a whole.
CHAPTER 2
Review of Literature
1) Amit P. Pratab argued that coconut oil is primarily used for edible purpose and
also for hair oil. It is an important source of intermediates like fatty acids.
Glycerol and fatty acids, which are used for the manufacture of wide range of
chemicals such as surfactants, emulsifiers, foam booster etc. These intermediates
are used in the formulation of several finished products like soaps, detergents, and
shampoos. Glycerol is used in lot of cosmetics formulations. Palm kernel oil is
also has a similar fatty acid profile. It could be used for the manufacture of all the
coco based chemicals. However, the coco based products are preferred due to their
characteristic odour and mind set of people (Pratab, 2009).
2) Bhattacharya in their study on “Putting the customer trust” observed that given the
rising demand of customer as well as increasing competition, the need of the hour
is to gear itself positively to the needs of its customers. This would mean
vendering the service in an efficient and effective manner. (Bhattacharya, 1991).
3) According to Balachandran, S in his study on “Customer driven services and
management”, for the same level of service rendered, some customers may be
very satisfied depending upon perception of experience and expectations.
Expectations are based on what one has heared from others, seen in
advertisements, its external appearance or what one has been made to believe by
the sales man. (Balachandran, 1999)
4) Bal Subramanian and Sathyanarayanan explained in their study that the success of
any business lies in maintaining a strong base of loyal costumer. The organization
exists for the customers and the customers are the deciding forces behind the
success or failure of a business organization. (Bal Subramanian and
Sathyanarayanan, 2008)
5) Carlo Lovatelli, in his study on “Good potential for using vegetable oils as bio
fuels” stated that the potential for using vegetable oils such as Palm oil, and soya
oil as biofuels is increasing considerably as the petroleum crude price will
continue to rule high. “Petroleum price increase tendency is a strong indication
that biodiesel should become more competitive over the next few years” said
Lovatelli in his presentation on “Vision 2020 - Soya”. Various countries such as
Malaysia, USA and Brazil are investing heavily in research to gradually make this
bio fuel as an alternative to crude oils. (Lovatelli, 2005).
6) Davish Janin argued that, in a short span of 30 years, India has emerged as the
world’s fourth largest oil seeds economy next only to USA, Brazil and China. The
note is that the Indian oil seeds ad edible oil sector performed well last year. The
seed processors of soya been, sunflower, cotton seed etc have had reasonably
good margins .The oil processor also had good processing margins as price went
up (Janin, 2000).
7) Devendra Arora and Loveleon Gavr stated that customer relationship management
is a business strategy to acquire and retain the most valuable customer
relationship. It is estimated that the cost of acquiring a new customer is four times
the cost of retaining the existing one. The core concept behind marketing is the
role of exchange. Exchange can take place between buyer and seller and also not
limited to money. (Devendra Arora and Loveleon Gavr 2006)
8) Dipak Kr Ghosh and Arpitha Ghosh suggested that coconut oil is more beneficial
to human body as a dietary fat than the natural or hydrogenated form of
unsaturated vegetable oil. The incidence of coronary heart disease could be better
linked with the consumption of cholesterol rich food of animal origin and the
sedentary habits associated with a tension ridden mechanical society. (Dipak Kr
Ghosh,and Arpitha Ghosh, 2008)
9) Elumalai pointed out that Brand strategy is an intimate aspect of product

planning. A marketer has to decide which products to be branded, how to brand
them and how to manage the Brands. In developing a brand the manufacturer has
to establish the Brands quality levels and other attributes that will support the
brands together position in the market place. (Elumalai, 2003)
10) Windisch opined that the last two decades have seen a substantial increase in the
use of aromatic herbs and essential oils as feed additives in animal nutrition. One
of the main reasons for this trend is to substitute antibiotic growth promoters,
which have been completely banned as feed additives in the European Union since
2006 because they are suspected of contributing substantially to increasing
resistance among human pathogens. Recent investigations have shown significant
antimicrobial effects of several essential oils and essential oil compounds against
enter pathogenic organisms in farm animals. Porcine proliferative enteropathy
caused by specific Escherichia coli strains could be controlled by in-feed
application of carvacrol-rich essential oils, and the effect of some essential oil
components against Clostridium perfringens and necrotic enteritis was confirmed
in poultry. In ruminants, an improvement of the digestion was observed, resulting
in reduced methanogenesis and nitrogen excretion. In addition, the anti oxidative
activity of aromatic plants and essential oil compounds contributes to the stability
and palatability of animal feed and has, moreover, resulted in an improved shelf-
life and quality of animal products, due to reduced oxidation. The 'growth-
promoting effect' of essential oils (feed conversion rate, daily weight gain, etc.) is
not as evident, since a large number of publications are (commercial) product-
driven, lacking data on the starting material. (Windisch, 2010).
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11) According to Singh and Singhal a well designed packing, act as a main identifying
feature for quality and quantity and makes the consumers more informative and
choosy. It further informs the consumers as to what quality, quantity and price, the
package is worth off. (Singh and Singhal,1980)
12) Sing Prabhakar stated that one of the basis of consumer perception, a customer
would take the purchase decision and a particular brand was getting priority over
other brands. They also observed that the marketers realized the importance of
consumer perception and attempted to create a unique image for their products,
which enable to achieve an advantage over their competitors’ products. (Sing
Prabhakar ,1989)
13) Thampan has observed that the demand for coconut oil in both the edible and
non edible and user has suffered erosion as a result of technical and economic
substitutuions, which have been taken place over a period of time. He has also
suggested measure to b be taken to regulate and maintain stability in the supplies
of coconut oil and to control its prices within a range, which will be beneficial to
both the producers and consumers. This objective could be achieved by operating
a supply management scheme for coconut oil in Kerala state which would, in the
long run, strengthen the existing market demands and develop new markets for
coconut oil to take care of the possible future increase in production.(Thampan ,
1995)
14) Manoj Kumar Ambashta stated that customer orientation comprises two mutely
related factors such as customer satisfaction and the efforts to fulfill those needs
up to the levels of their satisfaction. To put it in the modern
technologies,custumor satisfaction in the present era may be complicated mix of
hardware (Technology ,Product,Price,Quandity)and software (Attitude
,responsiveness,deleverness,andcommemorations).(ManojkumarAmbastha,1997)
15) Sanjiv Phansalkar argued that the misconception is that high edible oil prices was
the only technique of demand management. Eliminating imports and creating
demand for conventional minor oils, allowing blending and mass and large-scale
availability of pure oil, conveniently packed were all part of the policy. The earlier
reliance on canalization and the directed use of imported oils had let to massive
vested interests particularly in the vanaspathi industry and the public distribution
system. (Sanjiv Phansalkar,1998)
16) Subramanian identified that for the development of coconut industry

strengthening of marketing promotion and market intelligence is necessary. He
opined that market promotion programme intends to create market and capture
market information. Market intelligence services gather information of the market
arrivals, wholesale prices for analysing the market trends for various coconut
products inside and out side the country. (Subramanian ,1998)
17) Maheswarappa.Hp opined in his study that a field experiment was conducted to
study the response of agronomic practices on galangal grown as intercrop in
coconut garden during 1995-1998.Growth,yield characters and yield were superior
when mother rhizome was used as planting material, where as quality characters
like oil and oleoresin contents did not differ. Significantly among mother rhizome
treatment. Plant population level of 500000 per hectare (20*10cm) recorded
significantly superior rhizome yield as compared to 333000 population levels. The
percent reduction in the yield due to lower density population was 6-7 percent.
Growth, yield characters and yield were superior with farm yard manure TNPK
combination followed by farm yard manures vermicomposts applied alone. Oil
and oleoresin contents were significantly higher with farmyard manure TNPK,
framyardmanure and vermicompost applied alone compared to composted coir
pith application and control. (Maheswarappa,2000)
18) Markose and Thomas categorically stated that in spite of the interference of the
Government machineries for the procurement of copra under the price support
scheme. The market price off copra and coconut oil ruled below the minimum
support price (MSP).Therefore announcement of MSP and procurement of
coconut industry in the country. (Markose and Thomas ,2000)
19) D.PS Varma and Heama Israneny conducted a study to find the consumer attitude
towards advertisement messages. Most of the consumers (52%) used the
information from advertisements to make their purchase decisions. As much as 70
% of the consumers’ believed that some advertisements actually mislead them by
presenting false and exaggerated feature of the product. The vast majority of 80
percent of consumers agreed that the cost of advertisements increased the total
cost of products. Only a slim majority of consumers (58%) have a favorable
attitude towards advertisemenrts.38 % of consumers reported unfavorable attitude
towards advertisements. (D.PS Varma, and Heama Israneny, 2000)
20) Wilson stated that information behavior is a broad term encompassing the ways
individuals articulate their information,needs,seeek,evaluate,select and use
information.Inotherwords information seeking behavior is purposive in nature is a
consequence of a need in to satisfy some goal. In the course of seeking the
individuals may interact with people, manual information system with computer
oriented information system. (Wilson,2000)
21) Vimal sukumar remarked that in the new economy, producing more, however
efficiently, is not necessarily better. The realistic is to capture the customer under
certain circumstances for a period of time. The goal should be to build limited
loyalty to have as much of the customers’ attention of realistically possible.(Vimal
sukumar,2000)
22) Srivastava said that in view of competition from other edible oils, the
future of coconut as source of oil is not promising. To increase the utilization
of coconuts, dependence on coconut oil has to laid on product diversification
and by product utilization of coconuts and market promotion. He pointed out
that the price of coconut and coconut products could not be improved in spite
of huge investment by Govt of India for procurement of copra by NAFED
under minimum support prize scheme. (Srivastava ,2000)
23) Gaur S.S and Vahed K.A observed that consumers buying behavior
normally should include the less observable decision process that accompany
consumption including where, how often, and under what condition consumer
make their purchase of desired goods and services.(Gaur S.S and Vahed K.A,
2002)
24) Lt.col.T Koteswara Rao (Retd),argued that the benefits of oil therapy, physically
the process of oil therapy cleans the teeth, mouth and makes the oral cavity
hygienic and free from bacteria and foreign particles. During the oil therapy the
metabolism is increase and keeps the body in a persistent state of health. How
long it takes to cure a disease depend upon the age, state of health, disease, habits,
food etc of each person. Oil therapy heals
headaches,bronchitis,toothpain,thrombosis,eczema,ulcers and diseases of stomach
,intestines,heart,blood,kidney,liver,lungs,and women’s diseases .It prevents the
growth of Malignant tumors heals them. Chronic sleepiness is cured. (Lt.col.T
Koteswara Rao (Retd) ,2002)
25) Thomas Mathew M argued that the small and medium farmers who form the
backbone of the coconut economy of the country have often been pushed towards
a situation of an economic deterioration during the recent past. Among the major
vegetable oils, the growth in the production was significantly pronounced in the
case of Palm kernel oil, Palm oil, rap seed oil, and soya been oil, Palm kernel oil
and Palm oil had the highest rate of growth in production. The coconut oil in the
world has become minor oil with other source of oils and fats. The coconut
industry in the world is always susceptible to the pressure from low oil seed price
and increased availability of cheap oils like Palm oil, soya bean oil. Due to the
opening of the Indian vegetable oil markets to the world players, the domestic
coconut industry was dawned in a market glooms. The boarders initiates in
moving the coconut sector independent of oil driven market has resulted dynamic
push in the market. (Thomas Mathew M ,2004)
26) Ramaswamy K Kalaivannan G and Sukumar, S revealed that easy perception,

good taste, savings in time, buying economy nutritional value as the motivational
facts .They also pointed out that the product feature such as quality of the product,
price, packaging and shelf life are considered as the most important determinants
that shape the post purchase behavior. (Kalaivannan G and Sukumar S, 2005)
27) Dr T Raj Mohan, presented a paper on” Coconut and health” in his address he
stated that there is no cholesterol in coconut oil. It is generally believed that
saturated fatty acids increase blood cholesterol. Coconut oil is made up of 90
percent saturated fats, but the saturated fatty acids present in coconut oil are
mostly short and medium chain fatty acids. These fatty acids are easily digested,
absorbed and utilized by the organs and not deposited in the body. The
characteristic feature of Kerala diet is the use of fresh coconut kernel in most
culinary preperatios,apart from the use of free coconut oil .Coconut kernel
contains several biologically active components which can modify the effect of
coconut oil in blood cholesterol (Dr T Raj Mohan ,2005)
28) Jeintha argued that to overcome the problems of coconut some suggestions were
recommended.Groweres organization and self help groups at the village level for
undertaking the processing of coconut into copra manufacturing unit in this area.
Diversification can be done even at the farm level which helps the farmers to earn
additional income. The diversified use of coconut oil may be promoted in
cosmetics, and toiletries, pharmaceuticals, medicinal products and chemical
sector.Decleration of support price by the Govt of India well in advance
(December-July) for the main harvest season (February-May) will get help to get a
reasonable price to the coconut growers during the peack forest. Farming co-
operative sectors will help the farmers in getting reasonable price for the products.
Most of the growers are unaware of the current market price. In this circumstance,
communication medias can provide market information of various coconut
products. High yielding hybrid varieties should be planted in the coconut garden.
(Jeintha ,2005)
29) Mathew and Thomas Mathew observed from the analysis of the recent fall in
copra and coconut oil prices in India that the need for the domestic coconut
industry to effectively compete with other vegetable oils and fats in the
international markets has become greater than ever before due to globalization
effects of India’s domestic market. The recent fall in the price of copra and
coconut oil is a combination of various factors such demand supply imbalance,
availability of cheaper vegetable oils, import of coconut oil and cake during the
crucial month adulteration etc. (Mathew and Thomas Mathew,2007)
30) Thomas Mathew stated that coconut is an important cash crop in the Indian
economy which provides food and livelihood security to more than 10 million
people in the country. The advantage of coconut growing under varied agro
climatic zones in the country has made possible an uninterrupted supply of nuts in
tune with the domestic requirements. Serious incidences of pests and diseases,
adverse climatic conditions etc, retard the growth of industry. Consequent to
Indian became a signatory to the world trade organization (WTO) the domestic
coconut market has been opened to international market players and hence the
prices of coconut and coconut products are recommended by the market forces
which are influenced by the availability of cheap substitutes. The growing
diminution in the size of operational holdings, lack of scale unproductive palms
and indiscriminative planting of tree species in the coconut gardens casting, shade
and occupying more space in ground and compete for water, light and nutrient are
the hindrances in achieving profitablity.Many of the coconut gardens in the
traditional states are characterized by diminishing rate of returns despite the fact
that the gardens received average care and management. (Thomas Mathew,2007)
31) Morpheus Chen argued that “The coconut mosaic used to produce the tiles helps
to attain the feeling of simple and pure tropical life within modern building
interiors. With a textured surface that alternates brown and white co lour and
sophisticated surface finish of every single chip, these mosaic tiles create an
ambiance of pure nature within a closed room. China based Zaijian mosaic,
among the largest mosaic suppliers in the world and not a popular brand in the
gulf, has launched an innovative product known as ‘Tropical Life’ which is
coconut mosaic. (Morpheus Chen, 2008)
32) Ram Sant,et al has examined the change in the nature of food demand in India the
last 20 yrs.Their study has identified two distinct stages of diet transition
associated with the period of economic growth. The impact of globalization has
implications for food supply systems. Liberalization has meant that large food
chains have a strong incentive to enter the very large Indian market but given their
relative bargaining’s power this could have adverse effects on Indian suppliers
(Ram Sant,et al, 2008)
33) G.Nagaraja said that coconut water should be taken daily and preferably on an
empty stomach. It helps to clear the toxins from the body. It is an ideal drink and
gives a feeling of fullness especially for a person on a weight loss diet. Drinking
coconut water has no side effects. It can be consumed 2-3 times a day. It is an
ideal beverage for the summer season. It is better than any canned juice, aerated
drinks and flavored sodas. A clash of salt and sugar added to tender coconut water
helps to relax an upset stomach. It prevents cramping caused due to stomach
infection. The best way to serve coconut water is to add rose petals in it and serve
it in its kernel itself with a straw. (G.Nagaraja, 2010)
34) Rengannathan in his study entitled “Consumer Market and Buying Behavior”
stated that ever since the marketing concept was developed, buying behavior of
consumers has been pivotal point of marketing theory and parctises.The emphasis
on buying behavior of consumers gained renewed strength following the adoption
of modern marketing practices in 21 st century. (Rengannathan ,2009)
35) Rethinam argued with special reference to value added products from coconut is
with the impression that coconut oil is good coco butter substitute having specially
fats based on Lauric oils and fats and hence coconut oil and its parts have a
greater role to play in the fast developing functional foods, particularly baby
foods, nutrecuticals, phrmmaceuticals,etc.He ha got evidence that virgin coconut
oil from coconut meat and coconut milk is getting more popularity as healthy and
nutritive edible oil. He is of the opinion that natural virgin coconut oil can be sold
in niche market to get premium price and large number of small scale units of
virgin coconut oil have been set up in many countries. (Rethinam,2009)
36) Rajiv Faldu in his study entitled” Measuring Brand Recall In Print Media
Advertisement” A study of selected brands of personal care industry observed that
advertising plays vital role in boosting the sales through brand
recoganition.Advetisement needs to be evaluated for its effeciveness.He also
stated that increasing number of firms go for combination of print advertising as
well as television advertising. While designing advertisement certain variables
like age, sex, occupation and education needs to be taken into consideration.
(Rajiv Faldu ,2009)
37) Shanmugha priya.P O stated that in most industries providing quality services is
no longer a sample option. The quick pull of developing technologies and
increasing competition makes it difficult to gain strategic competititive advantage
through physical products alone. Plus, customers are more demanding. They not
only expect excellent, high quality goods, they also expect high levels f services
along with them. Therefore many firms jumped on the services. Bandwagon,
investing in service initiative and promoting service quality as ways to
differentiate themselves and create competitive advantage. (Shanmugha priya.PO ,
2010)
CHAPTER 3
Coconut-A History
The English name coconut, first mentioned in English print in 1555, comes from
the Spanish and Portuguese word coco, which means "monkey face." Spanish and
Portuguese explorers found a resemblance to a monkey's face in the three round
indented markings or "eyes" found at the base of the coconut. On the Nicobar Islands
of the Indian Ocean, whole coconuts were used as currency for the purchase of goods
until the early part of the twentieth century.
Coconuts are the fruit of the coconut palm, botanically known as ‘cocos
nucifera’, with nucifera meaning "nut-bearing." The fruit-bearing palms are native to
Malaysia, Polynesia and southern Asia, and are now also prolific in South America,
India, the Pacific Islands, Hawaii and Florida. The light, fibrous husk allowed it to
easily drift on the oceans to other areas to propagate. In Sanskrit, the coconut palm is
known as kalpa vriksha, meaning "tree which gives all that is necessary for living,"
because nearly all parts of the tree can be used in some manner or another.
The coconut palm can be found as far as Norway in the north, where the
people have for centuries ensured that the seed germinates under the right, 'created'
conditions. It is believed that the fruit and palm made their way into Hawaii on
account of the deliberate efforts made by Polynesian voyagers. The name 'coconut', it
is believed, was awarded to the palm and fruit by Spanish and Portuguese explorers.
The name was derived from the Iberian 'El Coco', which referred to a mythical hairy
monster. The kernel and hair around the fruit probably generated the connection. The
suffix 'nut' was added to refer to the seed-bearing palm, as most other tree seeds are
referred to in the English language. The name stuck, and today the whole world
benefits from the presence of the palmand fruit.
The coconut fruit has many food uses for its water, milk, meat, sugar, and oil.
It also functions as its own dish and cup. The husk was burned for fuel by natives, but
today a seed fibre called coir is taken from the husk and used to make brushes, mats,
fishnets, and rope. A very potent fermented toddy or drink is also made from the
coconut palm's sap.
Coconut oil, a saturated fat made from dried coconut meat, is used for
commercial frying and in candies and margarines, as well as in non-edible products
such as soaps and cosmetics. Although it takes up to a year for coconuts to mature, the
trees bloom up to thirteen times a year. Fruit is constantly forming, thus yielding a
continuous harvest year-round. An average harvest from one tree runs about 60
coconuts, with some trees yielding three times that amount. The coconut's name is a
bit of a misnomer, since it is botanically classified as a drupe and not a nut. It is the
largest seed known.
Ideal Climatic Conditions:
The coconut palm basically thrives in the world's tropical regions. The coconut palm
requires warm climatic conditions for successful growth. The natural conditions that
best suit the growth of the coconut palm are:
• Sandy soil, with a high salinity tolerance.

• Abundant sunlight, with a mean annual temperature of 27°C.
• Regular rainfall of approximately 150 - 200 cm, annually.
• High humidity.
• Absence of an overhead 'canopy' growth.
Multiple Uses Of Coconut Palm
Leaves
• Coconut leaves are plaited and used for thatching houses, for covering retting
pits, making partition.
• Walls in separating different lots of husks retted in linear trenches, for making
baskets, etc.
• Plaited leaves are also made into several types of head-gear and are worn by
poor men and women while out in the field.
• Unplaited coconut leaves are also used for shading seedlings, mulching
nursery beds and for fencing, etc.
• The dry leaflets are tied into small bundles and used in villages as country
torch in the night.
Midribs of leaves
• The midribs of leaves are utilised for making brooms, baskets, fish traps, etc.
Petioles, bunch stalks, spathes, stipules, etc. These are mostly used as fuel.
Trunk
• The trunks of old coconut trees are utilised as timber for house-construction.
• The quality of the timber is improved if it is soaked in saline water for some
time.
Edible parts
• The apple or cotyledon developing during germination and the tender bud are
delicacies.
• The tender husks of some varieties are edible and are sometimes pickled.
Coconuts and coconut products in medicine
• Several coconut products and parts of the palm are used for medicinal
purposes.
1. Life of tree - 80 - 100 Years

2. Age at first flowering - 7-10 Years
3. Number of leaves in the crown - 30
4. Fresh number of leaves that open per month - one
5. Period for which the leaf remains on the tree - 30 months
6. Number of bunches on crown - 12
7. Number of bunches that open every month - one
8. Number of nuts harvested per year - 60
9. Interval between opening of female flower and harvest of the nuts - 12 months
10. Time taken for seed nut to germinate - 3-4 months
11. Quantity of kernel per nut - 12 oz.
12. Weight of copra per nut - 5 oz.
13. Oil in copra (Solvent). 72%
14. Weight of cake from 100 nuts 12 lb
15. Quantity of sap from tree per day - 50 oz.
16. Sugar in sweet toddy - 14-16%
17. .Weight of fibre from one nut - 21/2 oz.
Processing
After harvesting the nuts and removing the coconut water, workers shell the nuts by
hand. The inner skin, a thin brown layer, is cut away leaving pure white balls of
coconut meat. The coconut ball is cut open, then washed and pasteurized. Next it
enters a shredding machine that has adjustments for creating different size shreds for
different customer needs. A confectioner may prefer a finer or shorter shred than a
baker. Hot-air ovens or kilns dry the shredded coconut meat that is then packaged into
large sacks. When the coconut is finally packaged for retail sale, some moisture is
added along with sugar and propylene glycol, a mold retardant.
Growing
The coconut palm, Cocos nucifera, is considered a "three generation tree," supporting
a farmer, his children, and his grandchildren. Some trees, which can grow to a height
of 60 to 100 feet, even survive all three generations. Cocos nucifera, nucifera
meaning nut-bearing, has only one species that includes both the tall and the dwarf
coconut tree, but many varieties exist within the species.
Though the coconut is commonly considered a nut, botanically it is classified as a

drupe and is the largest of all fruit seeds. The coconut consists of the thin, strong outer
layer or skin called the epicarp, the thick fibrous layer called mesocarp, and the dark
brown hard shell called the endocarp that encases the coconut flesh. Just beneath the
endocarp is the testa, the thin deep brown layer that clings to the white coconut meat.
The coconut palm is a striking tree with a tall slender trunk that keeps its same
diameter from the base to the top. Beautiful, lacy fronds, about 25 to 35 of them, form
an umbrella-like structure at the tree's zenith. The tree grows taller by forming new
fronds that sprout from the top of the tree as the lower fronds die off. Coconuts grow
from the center of the fronds, close to the trunk. Unique to the coconut palm, each tree
blooms thirteen times a year and produces all stages of growth at the same time, from
tiny new green nuts to fully ripened brown nuts that are ready to fall from the tree.
Coconuts are cannot survive cold climates, and do poorly in temperate zones.
Coconuts require the hot, humid weather of the tropical regions that stretch 25 degrees
north to 25 degrees south of the equator all around the globe. There the sun shines
steadily with plenty of rainfall to nurture the slow-growing coconut palm. To begin
the growing process, purchase a coconut with its husk completely intact. Just like
sprouting any seeds and legumes, the coconut must be soaked in water, only longer,
two or three days.
Next, prepare a pot that is large enough and deep enough for the coconut by putting
big pieces of gravel or stones in the bottom to allow for good drainage. Add about two
inches of sandy soil, then set the coconut on the soil with the pointed or bud end up.
Add more soil until it covers about half the coconut. Then set the pot in a warm place
such as a sunny window, near a warm oven, or on a radiator.
The next step requires patience and diligence. Pour warm water over the coconut husk
every day, making sure it does not dry out. The sprouting process is very slow,
sometimes taking six months or longer. Until the sprout appears, the coconut is
receiving its nourishment from the white meat inside. The coconut water within
provides the nut with all of its moisture requirements.
For a sprout to appear it must first pierce through one of the soft spots, often called
eyes, of the coconut's hard inner shell and finally emerge from the large fibrous outer
shell. When white roots begin to grow out, in about a year, the coconut can be planted
in a large tub. Coconuts planted at home are unlikely to thrive or produce a coconut.
Today the nuts are a highly cultivated crop, where once they were a source of survival
for natives of the tropics, providing the family's support with only a few trees.
Since commercially planted coconut palms are grown for maximum yield, some
farmers use commercial fertilizer while others use a different method. With
intercropping, an effective method of fertilization and land use, the farmer plants
banana trees or other large crops among the coconut trees. After producing its crop,
the banana trees are left to disintegrate, producing ideal compost to fertilize the soil.
Coconuts come in many varieties. Some are grown for their higher oil content, while
others are favored for their higher sugar content. Many growers prefer the dwarf
varieties. Though they lack the dramatic appearance of the tall trees, they are far
easier to harvest. The dwarfs, who have a shorter lifespan, about 40 to 60 years, are
also less vulnerable to a yellowing disease that kills many of the tall trees.
In agriculture, nothing is without its challenges. With all its advantages, the dwarf
coconut palm also faces destruction from rodents. The creatures climb up the tree
trunks and form communities under the protection of the feathery fronds, often
putting a considerable dent in a farmer's crop. The farmers have tried to outwit the
rats by putting metal bands around the tree trunks, but these have no effect on the rats
that are already colonized in the trees.
Nutritional Benefits
Young coconuts are considered highly nutritious. One whole coconut has only 140
calories and provides 17% of the RDA for calcium. The total fat content is 3 grams,
all saturated. With a zero content of cholesterol, the young coconut has 50 mg
sodium, 28 grams of carbohydrate, 2 grams of fiber,15 grams of sugar, and 2 grams of
protein.
Mature Coconut:
The raw grated meat of a mature coconut has 283 calories and 2.7 grams of protein
for 1 cup. For the carb counters, that 1 cup contains 12.2 grams of carbohydrates. The
sodium content is low at 16 mg. Coconut is a high fiber food that delivers 7.2 grams
for 1 cup of freshly grated meat. The sticky point of coconut consumption is the fat.
That 1 cup of grated coconut packs 26.8 grams of total fat with 23.8 grams saturated
which means that it is 80% fat. Our 1 cup of grated fresh coconut contains a good
range of B vitamins except B12, with 21.1 mcg of folic acid and 2.6 mg of vitamin C.
Coconut is a good source of minerals with 11.2 mg of calcium, 1.9 mg. of iron, 15.6
mg of magnesium, 285 mg. of potassium, and 0.9 mg. of zinc.
Canned Coconut Cream:
A 1-cup measure contains 568 calories, 8 grams protein, and 25 grams of

carbohydrate. The fiber content totals 7 grams, while the total fat is 52.5 grams, the
saturated fat 46.5 grams. The numbers for fresh coconut cream are a little higher in
calories, protein, and fat, but lower in carbs, sodium, and fiber. Canned coconut cream
has a good range of B vitamins except B12, with 42.3 mcg of folic acid and 5.3 mg of
vitamin C. A full range of minerals produce 3 mg of calcium, 1.5 mg. of iron, 50.3 mg
of magnesium, 299 mg potassium, and 1.8 mg. of zinc. Figures for fresh coconut
cream are higher with an exceptional 2.1 mg of niacin, 55.2 mcg of folic acid, 26.4
mg of calcium, and 2.3 mg. of zinc.
Coconut Milk:
For the same measure, canned coconut milk contains 445 calories, 5 grams protein,
and 6 grams of carbohydrate. Total fat is 48.2 grams, with 42.7 grams saturated.
Canned coconut milk lacks vitamin B2 and B12 but has a good range of other B
vitamins including 30 mcg of folic acid. Vitamin C content is 2.3 mg. For the
minerals our coconut milk contains 40.7 mg of calcium, 7.5 mg. of iron, 104.0 mg. of
magnesium, 497 mg. of potassium, and 1.3 mg. of zinc. Fresh coconut milk is slightly
higher in the B vitamins, zinc, and potassium, but slightly lower in calcium, iron, and
magnesium.
Coconut Water:
On the average 1 cup contains about 46 calories and 2 grams of protein. The sodium
content is surprisingly high with 252 mg. and so is the fiber at 3 grams. The total fat is
exceptionally low at 0.5 grams with 0.4 grams saturated. Coconut water contains a
full range of B vitamins with the exception of vitamin B6 and B12. There are 6.00
mcg of folic acid and 5.8 mg of vitamin C. Rating the minerals that 1 cup contains
57.6 mg of calcium, 0.7 mg. of iron, 60 mg of magnesium, 600 mg of potassium, and
0.2 mg of zinc.
Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil has 120 calories for 1 tablespoon and 14 grams of total fat. These figures
are the same for almost any kind of oil from extra virgin olive oil to soybean oil. The
difference is that coconut oil contains 11 to 12 grams saturated fat. Coconut oil, like
other oils, does not contain significant vitamins and minerals.
Mature coconut:
Most coconuts reach market with the outer fibrous husk removed, a practice that
shortens their shelf life but makes them easier to open. Start the selection process by
lifting and shaking the coconut to make sure it is heavy with plenty of water inside.
Carefully inspect the outer shell and the eyes to make sure there are no cracks or
punctures. A damaged coconut will rot quickly once air reaches the inside of the nut.
Examine the three eyes to be sure there is no mold forming there. If the coconut
seems too light and cannot hear water inside when shake it, the nut may have a thin
crack, has lost a great deal of its water, and may have begun to mold. The ideal
coconut has plenty of liquid. Can feel its weight and hear it swoosh when give the
coconut a good shake.
A fully mature coconut will be dark brown in color. Those with a lighter brown
have not yet reached their full ripeness but will still taste quite good. Coconut milk
pressed from the lighter colored coconuts will not be as thick and creamy as the
darker coconuts, but can lend itself to tasty soups and curries. A mature coconut,
unopened, can be stored at room temperature for about three or four months. Once
opened, fresh coconut can be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for only a few
days. Freeze the coconut for longer storage. A medium-sized coconut will contain
about 1 cup of coconut juice. When grated, the coconut will yield about 3 to 4 cups of
nutmeat.
Young coconut:
Young coconuts are sold still in the husk. Young coconut by its pale, almost ivory
color and by its conical shape at the top. Look for these in the refrigerated section or
produce section of some health food and Asian markets. Young coconuts are valued
for their juice, but the coconut meat inside, which is often sweeter than that of the
mature coconut, is completely edible and has a softer, more delicate consistency than
a mature coconut. The very young coconut meat is almost jelly-like and can be eaten
with a spoon. Store young coconuts in the refrigerator.
Dried coconut:
Coconut comes in dried forms as well as fresh. Most chain supermarkets have the
sweetened variety only. Look for the unsweetened grated or shredded coconut meat in
a health food market or Asian market. Both forms may also be found in the freezer in
Asian groceries. Dried coconut can keep at room temperature for several months if
sealed in plastic bags.
Coconut milk:
Canned coconut milk is available in most grocery stores; however, Asian markets
offer several brands from which to choose. Notice that the total fat content can vary
considerably from 2 grams to 17 grams. The cans with 2 grams of fat will be quite
watery and taste diluted. For good flavor, choose a coconut milk with 8 to 9 grams of
fat for its excellent consistency and richness in taste. Those with the highest fat are
actually coconut cream from the first pressing that offers a thicker and creamier
liquid. Once opened, canned coconut milk must be stored in the refrigerator and will
keep only a few days.
Coconut oil:
Coconut oil is an edible oil that has been consumed in tropical places for thousands of
years. Studies done on native diets high in coconut consumption show that these
populations are generally in good health, and don't suffer as much from many of the
modern diseases of western nations.
Let us now explore the benefits of coconut oil in detail:
Hair Care: Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It helps in healthy
growth of hair providing them a shiny complexion. Regular massage of the head with
coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff, lice, and lice eggs, even if your
scalp is dry. Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care.
It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It also
provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair. It is therefore
used as hair care oil and used in manufacturing various conditioners, and dandruff
relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically for hair care.
Stress Relief: Coconut oil is very soothing and hence it helps in removing stress.
Applying coconut oil to the head followed with a gentle massage helps in removing
mental fatigue.
Skin Care: Coconut oil is excellent massage oil for the skin as well. It acts as an
effective moisturizer on all types of skins including dry skin. The benefit of coconut
oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil. Further, unlike mineral oil, there is
no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin with the application of
coconut oil. Coconut oil therefore is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking
of skin. It also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin which normally become
prominent with age. Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems
including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. Therefore coconut
oil forms the basic ingredient of various body care products such as soaps, lotions,
creams, etc., used for skin care.
Premature Aging: Coconut oil helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative
diseases due to its antioxidant properties.
Heart Diseases: There is a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil
is not good for the heart. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats.
However, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid,
which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels
and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut oil are not harmful as it
happens in case of other vegetables oils. It does not lead to increase in LDL levels. It
also reduces the incidence of injury in arteries and therefore helps in preventing
atherosclerosis.
Weight Loss: Coconut oil is very useful in reducing weight. It contains short and
medium-chain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It is also easy to
digest and it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. Further,
it increases the body metabolism by removing stress on pancreases, thereby burning
out more energy and helping obese and overweight people reduce their weight.
Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who eat coconut oil daily as their
primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or overweight.
Pancreatitis: Coconut oil is also believed to be useful in treating pancreatitis.
Digestion: Internal use of coconut oil occurs primarily as cooking oil. Coconut oil
helps in improving the digestive system and thus prevents various stomach and
digestion related problems including irritable bowel syndrome. The saturated fats
present in coconut oil have anti microbial properties and help in dealing with various
bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc., that cause indigestion. Coconut oil also helps in
absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
Immunity: Coconut oil is also good for the immune system. It strengthens the
immune system as it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic
acid which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body
converts lauric acid into monolaurin which is claimed to help in dealing with viruses
and bacteria causing diseases such as herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even
HIV. It helps in fighting harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and
heliobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.
Healing: When applied on infections, it forms a chemical layer which protects the
infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil is
most effective on bruises as it speeds up the healing process by repairing damaged
tissues.
Infections: Coconut oil is very effective against a variety of infections due to its
antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to the Coconut Research
Center, coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes,
SARS, etc. It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract
infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, etc. Coconut oil is also effective on fungi and
yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, etc.
Liver: The presence of medium chain triglycerides and fatty acids helps in preventing
liver diseases as they substances are easily converted into energy when they reach the
liver, thus reducing work load on the liver and also preventing accumulation of fat.
Kidney: Coconut oil helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases. It also
helps in dissolving kidney stones.
Diabetes: Coconut oil helps in controlling blood sugar, and improves the secretion of
insulin. It also helps in effective utilization of blood glucose, thereby preventing and
treating diabetes.
Bones: As mentioned earlier, coconut oil improves the ability of our body to absorb
important minerals. These include calcium and magnesium which are necessary for
development of bones. Thus coconut oil is very useful to women who are prone to
osteoporosis after middle age.
Dental Care: Calcium is an important element present in teeth. Since coconut oil
facilitates absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in getting strong teeth. Coconut
oil also stops tooth decay.
HIV and Cancer: It is believed that coconut oil plays an instrumental role in
reducing viral susceptibility of HIV and cancer patients. Preliminary research has
shown indications of the effect of coconut oil on reducing the viral load of HIV
patients (Reference).
Finally, coconut oil is often preferred by athletes and body builders and by those who
are dieting. The reason behind this being that coconut oil contains lesser calories than
other oils, its fat content is easily converted into energy and it does not lead to
accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Coconut oil helps in boosting energy and
endurance, and enhances the performance of athletes.
Supermarket: A History
A supermarket, a form of grocery store, is a self-service store offering a wide variety

of food and household merchandise, organized into departments. It is larger in size
and has a wider selection than a traditional grocery store and it is smaller than a
hypermarket or superstore.
The supermarket typically comprises meat, fresh produce, dairy, and baked goods
departments, along with shelf space reserved for canned and packaged goods as well
as for various non-food items such as household cleaners, pharmacy products and pet
supplies. Most supermarkets also sell a variety of other household products that are
consumed regularly, such as alcohol (where permitted), medicine, and clothes, and
some stores sell a much wider range of non-food products.
The traditional suburban supermarket occupies a large amount of floor space, usually
on a single level. It is usually situated near a residential area in order to be convenient
to consumers. Its basic appeal is the availability of a broad selection of goods under a
single roof, at relatively low prices. Other advantages include ease of parking and
frequently the convenience of shopping hours that extend far into the evening or even
24 hours a day. Supermarkets usually allocate large budgets to advertising, typically
through newspapers. They also present elaborate in-store displays of products. The
stores are usually part of corporate chains that own or control (sometimes by
franchise) other supermarkets located nearby—even transnationally—thus increasing
opportunities for economies of scale.
Supermarkets typically are supplied by the distribution centers of their parent

companies, such as Loblaw Companies in Canada, which operates thousands of
supermarkets across the nation. Loblaw operates a distribution centre in every
province—usually in the largest city in the province.
Supermarkets usually offer products at low prices by reducing their economic

margins. Certain products (typically staple foods such as bread, milk and sugar) are
occasionally sold as loss leaders, that is, with negative profit margins. To maintain a
profit, supermarkets attempt to make up for the lower margins by a higher overall
volume of sales, and with the sale of higher-margin items. Customers usually shop by
placing their selected merchandise into shopping carts (trolleys) or baskets (self-
service) and pay for the merchandise at the check-out. At present, many supermarket
chains are attempting to further reduce labor costs by shifting to self-service check-
out machines, where a single employee can oversee a group of four or five machines
at once, assisting multiple customers at a time.
List of Supermarkets in Thrissur
1. Margin free market,Tripayar,P.o Nattiaka, Thrissur

2. A one supermarket, puuayurkulam, Thrissur
3. Gift palace,Pavartty,Thrissur
4. Hyper point, Center point Mg Road, Thrissur
5. Gulf Trades, Ambika Arcade, Thrissur
6. Chaithram Hypermarket, smart center,Mala,Thrissur
7. City Supermarket, Round west, Thrissur
8. Gulf traders,Ambika Arcade G Road, Thrissur
9. Varkeys Supermarket, Round south, Thrissur
10. Elite Supermarket, ,Round North, Thrissur
11. Kunnathu supermarket-Venkidangu ,Thrisur
12. Karthika supermarket- Moonu peedika, Prinnanam, Irinjaalakuda,Thrissur
13. KNP supermarket- Muthuvara, Mundur, Thrisur
14. Mahima Super Bazar, Nadathara, , Thrisur
15. Malabar supermarket,Nadathara,Thrissur
16. Margin free market- Venkidangu Thrissur
17. Kanjanas supermarket, Main road Chalakudy Thrissur
18. Margin free market,Vatanappilly ,kandassankadavu, Thrissur
19. Geetha supermarket-,kandassankadavu, Thrissur
20. Margin free market- Suntower,Eastfort,Thrissur
21. Jose’s Margin free Bazar, Congress bavanam, Ollur, Thrisur
22. KNP Supermarket,Mundur,Thrissur
23. Margin free Supermarket, Northnada, kodungallur, Thrissur
24. Golden Lilies Supermarket,Mala,Irinjalalkuda, Thrissur
25. Margin free market,Thahani junction,Guruvayur,
26. EVU Supermarket,Kannara,Pattiikaadu, Thrissur
27. E Mas Supermarket, Katoor, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
28. Chandrika margin free market, police station road,Chalakudy
29. Bonny Supermarket, , Katoor, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
30. Aparna Supermarket,Mannuthy, Thrissur
31. Anupama Margin free consumer market,Mala,Irinjalakuda
32. Amma Supermarket,Alagappanagar, Thrissur
33. A1 mass Supermarket,Chenthrappinny, Irinjalakuda
34. Indoor shopping bakery & Supermarket,Thykkad,Guruvayur
35. Soumyas super shop, Koratty junction,Thrissur
36. Winners supershop,Chalakudy, Thrissur
37. Vellanikaaran Supermarket, Chalakudy, Thrissur
38. Varkeys bakery and supermarket,Civilline,Thrissur
39. Total supermarket,Edamuttam,Thrisur
40. Teeces supermarket,Punkunnam,Thrissur
41. Surya supermarket,kodakara,Thrissur
42. Surabhi supermarket Ayyanthole, Thrissur
43. Surabhi supermarket, Kuttanellur, Thrissur
44. Supreme bakery & supermarket, Koorkanchery, Thrissur
45. Supreme bakery & supermarket, Valappadu, Thrissur
46. Margin free Supermarket, kuriachira, Thrissur
47. Sreelakshmi Supermarket, kandassankadavu, Thrissur
48. Margin free Supermarket, Evm complex, Irinjalakuda,Thrissur
49. Siva supermarket,Chazhoor, Thrissur
50. Selection supermarket,Chalakudy, Thrissur
51. Seethal supermarket,Perinnanam, Irinjalakuda,
52. Santhosh supermarket, venkidangu Thrissur
53. Samson margin free ,Katoor, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
54. Rasika supermarket,Vallakunnu, Thrissur
55. Priya supermarket, kandassankadavu, Thrissur
56. Parkway supermarket & bakery ,Civilline,Thrissur
57. Mini supermarket, Katoor, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
58. Margin free Supermarket, Katoor, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
59. Margin free Supermarket, Kanjani road, Irinjalalkuda ,Thrissur
60. Supreme bakery & supermarket, Kodungallur, Thrissur
(Source:http://yellowpages.webindia123.com/dpy/Kerala/Thrissur/Super+Markets/)
Major supermarkets in Thrisur city
The major famous supermarkets are coming under this study are the
following.
1) BigBazar
2) Varkey’s Supermarket
3) Elite Supermarket
4) Omega Hyperpermarket
5) City Super Market
6) Reliance Fresh
7) The Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation Ltd.Thrissur –Supplyco
8) West end Super Market
9) Popular combines Super Market
10) Trichur wholesale Coop. Consumers Stores Limited (TWCS)
1) Bigbazar
Name BigBazar
Category Supermarket
Website wwwbigbazaar.com
Number of employees 20
Working time 8.30am – 10pm
Area 15000
Location Karunakaran Nambiar Road, Opp Ashwini Hospital,
Thrisur,
2)Varkey’s supermarket
Name Varkey’s Supermarket

Website www.varkeysindia.com
Working time 9am - 10pm
Area 5000
Location West Fort, Civil Line Road,
Thrissur - 680 004
3)Elite Supermarket
Name Elite Supermarket

Website elitein@sancharnet.in
Working time 9am – 10pm
Area 6000
Location
Round North,Thrisur Central, Thrisur
4) The Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation Ltd
Name SUPPLYCO-The Kerala State Civil Supplies

Corporation Ltd._Thrissur
Website www.supplycokerala.com
Area 3500
Location
Round North,Thrisur Central, Thrisur
5) City Super Market
Name City Super Market

Website www.citysupermarket.co.in
Working time 9am - 10pm
Area 8000
Location
City Centre, Round West, Thrissur – 680001
6) Reliance Fresh
Name Reliance Fresh

Website www. reliancefresh.info
Working time 9am - 9.30pm
Area 5000
Location Reliance Fresh, Round East, Thrissur –
680001
7) Omega Hyperpermarket
Name Omegha hypermarket

Category Hypermarket
Website www.omegha.org
Working time 8.30am- 10pm
Area 5000
Location
Omegha hypermarket, poomkunnam,
Thrissur – 680001
8) West end Super Market,
Name West end Super Market

Website www.atwestend.com
Working time 10am - 8.30pm
Area 3000 Square feet
Location
West end Super Market, Poomkunnam,
Thrissur – 680001
9) Popular combines margin free Super Market
Name Popular combines margin free Super Market

Website --
Area 3000 Square feet
Location Margin free Super Market, West fort,
Thrissur - 680001
10) Trichur wholesale Coop. Consumers Stores Limited
Name TWCS
Website www.twcskerala.com
Working time 9.30am-7.30pm
Area 3000 square feet
Location Trichur wholesale Coop: consumers stores
limited, M.O. Road Thrisur,
CHAPTER 4
STERLING COCONUT OILS & CAKES (P) LIMITED
(THANIMA)
A PROFILE
Sterling Coconut Oil & Cakes (P) Ltd was established in the year 1953 with
an objective to produce, supply and export of fresh and pure coconut oil. The founder
store for the company laid at Cherpu, a total remote area in Thrissur District, Kerala.
Sine its inception the company has marked unparalleled growth that has definitely
helped us to emerge as one of the leading and most reputed companies in the field of
extraction and purification of Coconut oil. The company originally was established in
the year 1983as a partnership firm popularly known as “United Oil Mills” with an
objective to produce supply and export fresh and pure coconut oil in bulk quantities.
Subsequently it was transformed as private Limited Company as is known at present –
Sterling Coconut Oils and Cakes (P) Limited. Sterling coconut oils & Cakes (P) Ltd,
is the creation of an ancestral business family-vallachirakkaran (house) at cherpu. The
family business title is “Raphael and company “,since its inception the company has
earned unparalleled growth that has definitely helped to emerge as one of the leading
and most reputed companies in coconut Oil industry under the Brand name
“THANIMA.
The company strictly follows the quality standards defined by AGMARK and
ISO 9001:2000 Certification to take on the challenges of globalization and
international quality standards. By establishing and implementing a high
Quality Management System, the company is striving hard to achieve excellence
at all levels. Backed by professional management experts and strong network,
the marketing of company's products is channeled through distributors and
retailers appointed in all the key locations of South India. The silver Jubilee of
Sterling was celebrated by spreading the unique fragrance of their prestigious
coconut oil 'THANIMA' to Northern, Eastern, Western and Southern parts of
India. The company has started a new division to take care of exports and begun
to accept the export orders from different parts of world. THANIMA is now
available in Europe and Gulf Countries. Presently the management of Sterling is
engaged in working out a strategic plan that aims an ambitious expansion
programme to diversify and enter into the wide market of cosmetic products like
baby oil and soaps.
Objectives
Thanima’s Quality Policy starts and ends with the customer as a focal point,
understanding the customer's requirements, building systems and processes in place to
ensure quality at every stage, and achieving our commitments on delivering the
quality products. It is their endeavor to create a culture of Total Quality where
continuous improvement of people, processes and products become a way of life.
Believe that the foundation of their success is the satisfaction of customers.
Vision
“Our endeavor is to create a culture of Total Quality where continuous improvement

of our people, our processes and our products become a way of life. We believe that
the foundation of our success is the satisfaction of our customers”. “Our aim is to
serve the best quality product (free from all sorts of adulteration) to their
distinguished customers.”
Branches of Thanima
Thanima does not have any branches, its corporate office is situated inCherpu,
Thrissur
Features
Thanima Coconut Oil is extracted and filtered using latest modern techniques, each
bottle before packing is tested by Agmark Authorities.Tested in laboratory set up
under Agmark standards to ensure the superior quality of the product and packed in
various types of food grade containers and pouches under highly hygienic conditions.
As it give high priority for quality standards. This help to focus on high quality
extraction and ensure the purest form coconut oil. In spite of the success and growth
of this unique product, still continue the same strategy. To avoid any sort of
adulteration of the product, the Company has introduced 'Holograms' on each and
every item of THANIMA COCONUT OIL sold in the market. 'Thanima' the silver
jubilant in the edible oil market and coconut oil exporters, enjoys appreciation from
wide range of customers from national and international level for its purity, smell,
taste and freshness. Being the first and best among the edible oil and coconut oil
Thanima complements a real taste to the food.
Studies reveal that consumption of Coconut oil is one of the reasons that help Asians
and people from the tropics (whose traditional diet includes coconut oil) maintain
their natural health and body weight. The key to weight loss and vibrant health is in
eating the right kind of fats (like those contained in coconut oil), avoiding refined
carbohydrates, and consuming whole foods. The secret to weight loss is in the chain
of molecules that makes up the fat of the coconut oil. Its fatty acids are known as
medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which burn up quickly in the body. They're a lot
like adding kindling to a fire, rather than a big, damp log.
Coconut oil improves immune system and energy level, stabilize blood sugar,
improve thyroid function and it tastes great, too! Apart from that, using the oil in its
purest form is good for the hair and skin. In the coastal regions most babies are
massaged with the coconut oil in its organic form. This is also being considered as
holistic oil. More and more nations are adopting this oil as part of their lifestyle
because of more healthy.
Processing of Coconut Oil
Coconut palms are grown widely in the coastal tracts of Kerala. Copra, the
dried kernel is the chief commercial product from coconut, which is mainly used for
oil extraction. Copra normally has an oil content varying from 65 to 72 per cent. The
quality of an ISO certified coconut oil is related to the quality of copra for use. Oil can
be extracted by: smoke drying, sun drying, or kiln drying, or derivatives or a
combination of these three. Then use most modern technology and machineries for
this purpose. It is well purified, by filtering process and perfectly refined coconut oil
is obtained. It is left for natural settling and then filtered in a filter press and then
again subjected to micro filtering and thereafter transferred to storage tanks for
packing. It is then packed in various types of food grade containers and pouches under
highly hygienic conditions. To avoid any sort of adulteration of the product, the
Company has introduced 'Holograms' on each and every item of "THANIMA" made
available in the market. The oil cake obtained as a by-product will find a ready market
as a cattle feed and in the manufacture of mixed cattle feeds or as a raw material for
the extraction of remaining oil by solvent extraction method.
For health reasons nutritionists and dieticians unanimously promote a best

coconut oil diets. They recommend foods fried in this oil, rather than the usual
cooking oil. In fact, in Kerala food is commonly cooked in oil from the coconuts.
Researchers from the medical field are studying the benefits of the organic form of
unrefined coconut oil. Initial trials have confirmed that unrefined coconut oil or
monolaurin has an anti-viral effect. A minimum of 50ml of unrefined coconut oil
would contain 20 to 25 grams of lauric acid, which indicates that the oil is
metabolized in the body to release monolaurin which is an antibiotic and an antiviral
agent. Among the saturated fatty acids, lauric acid has the maximum antiviral activity.
Thanima coconut oil is a quality product of an ISO certified coconut oil

suppliers with Agmark standards. Each bottle is tested by Agmark Authorities before
packing. It is tested in laboratory set up under Agmark standards to ensure the
superior quality of the product and packed under highly hygienic conditions. As it
give high priority for quality standards. This helps Thanima to focus on high quality
extraction and ensure the purest form coconut oil.
Rhythm of Process
 The process starts with the selection of copra from vendors from reputed
areas best known for the quality and percentage of yield. The copra from
unripe fruits is handpicked before being fed into the drier to eliminate the
moisture content to the maximum extent possible so as to give the product
maximum shelf life.It is then automatically fed into the cutter for
bre4aking into small pieces to be crushed in the expellers for extracting oil
using best modern technology and machineries.
 The extracted oil then transferred to tanks for filtration process. The oil is
then again stored in tanks for further elimination of unwanted particles if
any by natural setting.
 Then undergoes filtering in a high frequency centrifugal filter and
transferred to tanks ready for packing.
 The most significant factor in the whole process is that from the point of
extraction to packing is wholly automatic and untouched so as to avoid any
sort of contamination of the product.
Production Capacity
The unit is having a production capacity of 60 Mt per day and storage tanks
can hold up to about 250Mt of oil. Every care is taken by their lab our force keeping
the product, factory and surroundings neat, clean and hygenic.Thanima play a vital
part in our activities of all sorts and contribute their might for smooth running of all
day to day activicties.The administrative wing also deserves special mention for their
contribution in all fields of production, packing and distribution of the product.
Quality Control Lab

 Quality control, lab is located inside the Thanima, This Lab is started
functioning from 1963. The Lab function starts with quality assurance of
incoming raw materials, assurance finished product quality considering
customers needs. The department lab equipped with latest and most
modern analytical instrument for analyzing the samples of raw material in
process product and finished product.
Quality Policy
THANIMA s quality policy is to produce and distribute good quality coconut

oil in fresh from, and distribute materials through a quality system, which registers
continual improvement by setting and reviewing functional quality objectives aimed
to create enhanced customer satisfaction. The quality policy is communicated to all
and is viewed periodically for continual suitably. The management and staff are
determined and committed to achieve this quality policy and try to work for achieve
the goal.
AGMARK Standard
The AGMARK standard was set up by the Directorate of Marketing and

Inspection of the Government of India by introducing an Agricultural produce Act in
1937. The word 'AGMARK' seal ensures quality and purity. AgMark is an acronym
for Agricultural Marketing. This organization used to certify the food products for
their quality. This has been superceded or dominated by other quality standards
including the non manufacturing standard ISO 9000.
The Department of Agriculture Marketing and Agri Business has the

facilities available at its laboratories for testing food items mainly for the convenience
of food and edible oil manufacturers and exporters. THANIMA coconut oil is packed
in various types of food grade containers and pouches under highly hygienic
conditions. THANIMA the silver jubilant in the edible oil market enjoys appreciation
from wide range of customers from national and international level for purity, smell,
taste and freshness.
Marketing Mix
 Product
 Price
 Place
 Promotion
The company has adopted a planned approach for implementing in product,

promotion programs based on the market department follows a scientific approach
and customers are taken into confidence before implementing any changes in this
field.
Product
The company has designed the product is such a variety that it differentiated
from its competitors products. The quality that the company is following is according
to the ISI standard i.e. ISO 90001-2000 standard type 1, Agmark standards. The
company maintains the standard from the raw materials up to the finished products
standard.
Product profile
Product Catalogue
1 Litre Pet Bottle 1 Litre Pouch 1 Litre HDPE Bottle 5 Litre Can
500 ml. Pet Bottle 200 ml. Pouch 500 ml. HDPE Bottle 2 Litre Can
200 ml. Pet Bottle 500 ml. Pouch 200 ml. HDPE Bottle 1 Litre Can
ISO 9001-2000 certified management with Agmark quality products
1 Litre Bottle(Pet Bottle) 500 ml. Bottle(Pet Bottle) 200 ml Bottle(Pet Bottle)
Net Contents - 1 Litre Size Of Net Contents - 500 ml. Size Of Net Contents - 200 ml. Size Of
Two Types Cartons Carton Carton
Length : 480 | 320 mm Length : 410 mm Length : 340 mm
Breadth : 320 | 240 mm Breadth : 280 mm Breadth : 225 mm
Height : 290 | 290 Height : 240 mm Height : 295 mm
Each Carton Contain 24 nos. | Each Carton Contain 24 Each Carton Contain 48 nos. of
12 nos of Bottles nos. of Bottle Bottles
1 Litre Pouch 200 ml. Pouch 500 ml.Pouch

Net Contents - 1 Litre Size Of Net Contents - 200 ml.Size Of Net Contents - 500 ml. Size Of
Carton Carton Carton
Length : 450 mm Length : 340 mm Length : 325 mm
Breadth : 330 mm Breadth : 200 mm Breadth : 200 mm
Height : 190 mm Height : 205 mm Height : 205 mm
Each Carton Contain 20 nos. of Each Carton Contain 50 Each Carton Contain 20 nos. of
Pouches nos. of Pouches Pouches
1 Litre Bottle (HDPE) 500 ml. Bottle(HDPE) 200 ml. Bottle(HDPE)

Net Contents - 1 Litre ,Size Of Net Contents - 500 ml. Size Of Net Contents - 200 ml. Size Of
Breadth : 430 mm Breadth : 300mm Breadth : 235 mm
Each Carton Contain 24 nos. of Each Carton Contain 24 Each Carton Contain 48 nos. of
Bottles nos. of Bottles Bottles
5 Litre Can 2 Litre Can 1 Litre Can

Net Contents - 5 Litre Size Of Net Contents - 2 Litre Size Of Net Contents - 1 Litre Size Of
Breadth : 290 mm Breadth : 280 mm Breadth : 235 mm
Each Carton Contain 4 nos. of Each Carton Contain 10 Each Carton Contain 20
Cans nos. of Cans nos. of Cans
Price
The company has followed a unique pricing policy in the industry. The company
is fixing their price also analyzing the wholesale price of coconut .After fixing the
prices the firm compares the price of medicines to the competitors’ price and then
makes necessary modifications.
Place
The company has a unique distribution channels to distribute its
products to the customers. In 1953 when it started it has only very few dealers all over
Kerala. Now it has became around 500 all over Kerala. Beyond Kerala it is exporting
it products to foreign countries.
Promotion
The company has different varieties of promotional activities as a
part of the marketing. They had enough advertisements through radios and other
Medias prevailing in the society. They promote the product through theatre slides,
balloons, scooter stepping covers, and advertising boards etc. Every dealer will be
getting the dealer boards, posters, stickers, banners, brochures etc. from the company.
Some of the most common promotional methods are using in
Thanima
 BOGOF (Buy One Get One Free)

 Price discounting
 Prize contest
What makes Thanima Different from other oils
• Manufacturing, Filtering 7 packing in own factory.

• Hollow mark on every pack
• Agmark certified
• Aluminum cork to prevent adulteration
• Quality control Serial Numbering on every Pack
• Micro filtering Technology to Ensure pure Sedimentation free coconut oil
Markets
Marketing is social and material process by which individuals and groups
obtain that they need and want through crating and exchanging products and value
with others. Kerala is the one of the important area of selling Thanima Coconut Oil
major markets are;-
 Supermarkets.
 Private Dealers.
 Retail outlets
 Direct selling and Other
Marketing and Distribution Network
At present “THANIMA COCONUTOIL” is available all throughout Kerala from one

end to the other. The marketing procedure is through distribution spread all over
Kerala and other neighboring states. The product is available also in some parts of
UAE, Saudi Arabia, turkey, etc, to name a few. Apart from packed products, this also
sells oil in bulk quantities in tankers and barrels. Within short span of few years have
achieved a remarkable reputation as one of the leading brands.
 Marketing Functions
The four functions of the marketing department such as product,

price, place and promotion are fulfilled through the activities of various personnel
engaged at different levels in the department. Each of them has different authorities
and responsibilities to achieve the over all objective of this department.
 Marketing of products within and outside Kerala State.

 Building up of brand image and corporate image.
 Maintain both consumer and dealer satisfaction giving adequate
importance to improve the level of satisfaction continuously.
 Decision regarding proposals for new product line based on the
consumer need.
 The marketing activities of Thanima have helped to record a
continuous growth in sales, both annual and monthly average growth in
channels of distribution, dealership as per dealer sales.
 Accounting Functions
Accounting functions involves day today accounting of several
transactions namely receipts and disbursement of money, transactions relating to
purchases, inventories (both input materials and finished goods), Production, Sales,
other income, fixed assets, salaries, and wages and other expenses such as
manufacturing, administration, selling and distribution.
 Finance Functions
Finance functions involve procurement of funds and effective
utilization of the same in the business. Control over expenses is ensured by comparing
actual expenses with that of budgeted figures. By constantly monitoring various
operational activities cost control and cost reduction are facilitated.
 Purchase functions
THANIMA ensures that purchased raw materials meets specified purchase

requirements by implementing proper inspection and the test activities by quality
control departments incase of raw materials. Ensuring mutually beneficial
supplier relationship, ensuring the supply of right quality material at right time, at
right place. Fix the material quality and rate to be purchased.
 Production functions
The function of production is to convert raw materials in to finished products. It
begins from brining the raw materials in to factory to the packing of waste. The role
of production finishes only when finished goods are properly packed and kept ready
dispatch.
Functional Departments
Functioning of Organisation is done by grouping all the work in to major functional

Departments. All related and similar works are done in one Department under one
executives. The company is headed by the Managing Director and supported by
Directors. All these Departments work in Co-ordination for achieving objectives. Out
of these Departments first and last is situated at Thrissur and other three are situated at
Cherpu, All these developments are interdependent and interrelated. They work as a
team. Their team spirit co-operation ,integration and group efforts helps in the
efficient and smooth running of the business, optimum utilization of resources, more
economic results and thus provides opportunities for future growth and
development.
Organizational chart
Managing Director/chairman
Administrative Director Marketing Director

Production Manager
(PRO)Public Relation Officer
Staff Manager
Office in charge
Accountant Chemist
Working Supervisor
Clerk
Cashier
Peon
Workers Workers Workers Workers Workers
Competitors of the in the coconut industry
• Nirmal Coconut oil

• KPL shudhi
• Lakshmi
• Kera
• Parachute
• Kerala Agricultural University oil
• Green valley
Mile Stones & Recognitions
 1953 - Company Established

 1994 - (Renovation), Introduction of new technology
 1998 - entered outside the Kerala Market
 2001 -Brand name Thanima got registered, Entered into consumer packs as
Thanima
 2002 - Received Agmark certification from the Central Govt. of India
 2004 - The first company in India to receive ISO 9001:2000 certification for
production and supply of coconut oil.

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DESIGN OF THE STUDY FOR MBA MAJOR PROJECT WORK

CUSTOMER PREFERENCE TOWARDS

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

COLLEGE OF CO-OPERATION, BANKING AND MANAGEMENT

DESIGN OF THE STUDY

Marketing is the process used by an organization to develop an overall product

Consumer behavior reflects the totality of consumer decision with respect to

Statement of the problem

In today’s competitive environment companies are realizing that marketing is

“Price behavior of major edible oils consumed in the households of Kerala

“Consumer’s preference towards branded coconut oil”. The study has

The supermarkets in Thrissur City area can be grouped as:

• Socioeconomic profile of respondents

Response Choice Scoring Weight

Scope of the study

Limitations of the study

The following limitations have happened in the study:

• The time constraint stands as a barrier to cover a much larger sample,

9) Elumalai pointed out that Brand strategy is an intimate aspect of product

16) Subramanian identified that for the development of coconut industry

26) Ramaswamy K Kalaivannan G and Sukumar, S revealed that easy perception,

Ideal Climatic Conditions:

• Sandy soil, with a high salinity tolerance.

Multiple Uses Of Coconut Palm

Coconuts and coconut products in medicine

1. Life of tree - 80 - 100 Years

Though the coconut is commonly considered a nut, botanically it is classified as a

Canned Coconut Cream:

A 1-cup measure contains 568 calories, 8 grams protein, and 25 grams of

Let us now explore the benefits of coconut oil in detail:

Pancreatitis: Coconut oil is also believed to be useful in treating pancreatitis.

A supermarket, a form of grocery store, is a self-service store offering a wide variety

Supermarkets typically are supplied by the distribution centers of their parent

Supermarkets usually offer products at low prices by reducing their economic

List of Supermarkets in Thrissur

1. Margin free market,Tripayar,P.o Nattiaka, Thrissur

Major supermarkets in Thrisur city

Name Varkey’s Supermarket

Name Elite Supermarket

4) The Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation Ltd

Name SUPPLYCO-The Kerala State Civil Supplies

5) City Super Market

Name City Super Market

Name Reliance Fresh

Name Omegha hypermarket

8) West end Super Market,

Name West end Super Market

9) Popular combines margin free Super Market

Name Popular combines margin free Super Market

10) Trichur wholesale Coop. Consumers Stores Limited

STERLING COCONUT OILS & CAKES (P) LIMITED

“Our endeavor is to create a culture of Total Quality where continuous improvement

Processing of Coconut Oil

For health reasons nutritionists and dieticians unanimously promote a best

Thanima coconut oil is a quality product of an ISO certified coconut oil

Quality Control Lab

THANIMA s quality policy is to produce and distribute good quality coconut

The AGMARK standard was set up by the Directorate of Marketing and

The Department of Agriculture Marketing and Agri Business has the

The company has adopted a planned approach for implementing in product,

1 Litre Pouch 200 ml. Pouch 500 ml.Pouch

1 Litre Bottle (HDPE) 500 ml. Bottle(HDPE) 200 ml. Bottle(HDPE)

5 Litre Can 2 Litre Can 1 Litre Can