Authors: Ayodele Abeshin
Abstract: Consumer behaviour in Nigeria, especially in relation to air conditioners, is shaped by a combination of economic, social, cultural and environmental factors. With the country experiencing high temperatures year-round, particularly in urban centers such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, air conditioners have shifted from being a luxury to an essential commodity for many households and businesses. The aim of this study is to examine the Nigerian consumer behaviour for air conditioner using Lagos metropolis as a study area. Other specific objectives are: to identify the major economic, social and technological factors influencing consumer decisions in the purchase of air conditioners in Nigeria, to evaluate the impact of electricity cost and availability on consumer preference for air conditioner brands and models, to analyze the role of lifestyle factors in shaping perceptions of air conditioner ownership, to assess the influence of brand reputation, advertising and after-sales services on consumer behaviour and to provide recommendations for manufacturers, marketers and policymakers on strategies to enhance adoption and satisfaction in the Nigerian air conditioner market. This study employed a survey research design to collect primary data through the administration of questionnaires to a selected sample of respondents. The study findings revealed that economic, social, and technological factors significantly influence consumer decisions in purchasing air conditioners, electricity cost and availability strongly affect brand and model preferences. Lifestyle factors, including comfort, aesthetics, social activities, and daily routines, shape perceptions of air conditioner ownership. Brand reputation, advertising, after-sales services and positive reviews play a crucial role in guiding consumer behaviour. Based on the study findings, the following recommendations were proffered: Competitive and affordable pricing strategies, development of products for unstable power supply and investment in advertising and awareness campaigns.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17054372
