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Europe's Blu-ray disc sales shot up 167% in 2009
Blu-ray disc unit sales rocketed 167% last year, helping to steady the falling DVD market in Europe, according to the Digital Entertainment Group Europe (DEGE) quoted by the UK Press Association.
2009 sales of Blu-ray discs - worth nearly £400 million - partially offset last year's 9% decline in DVD sales, which decline 2% by volume. Indeed, Europe’s overall home entertainment market was worth £5.5 billion in the last 12 months – a fall of 7% on 2008.
DEGE chairman Yves Caillaud, speaking at the annual general meeting in London, said: "Blu-ray is gaining further momentum in Europe thanks to a concerted cross-industry promotional effort, near universal penetration of high-definition TVs, increased consumer awareness and greater player affordability."
He added: "Last year was never going to be easy, but in comparison to many other similar sized industries, the European home entertainment businesses in 2009 held up well."
Despite last year's sales drop, the industry is hopeful that the introduction of 3D TV will give the market a fresh injection.
Story filed 14.02.10
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