NPD predicts Blu-ray mass market penetration next year
Prepare to have our niche stolen!
Break out the champagne and noise makers, because everyone’s favorite HD platform is going mainstream!
That’s according to an analyst with the NPD Group, which predicts that Blu-ray will penetrate the mass market next year, especially as the costs of players continue to plummet through the fourth quarter.
Comparing sales of set top players from February of 2008 to August of last month, NPD was able to create a demographic breakdown highlighting the emergence of Blu-ray into the mainstream. Whereas Blu-ray ownership was primarily comprised of early adopters – at 65% – just 18 months ago, that number has dropped to 38% as of last month.
If those trends hold, NPD expects Blu-ray players will start being described as mainstream products early next year.
With players already available in the sub-$200 range, NPD predicts market penetration throughout the holidays as manufacturers slash costs on players in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The proliferation of web-based players will also help lure reluctant owners.
Oddly enough, NPD cites word-of-mouth and not in-store demonstrations or marketing as the most of effective method in leading consumers to Blu-ray adoption.
So what say you guys, should we let the normies into our cool kids club?
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