TV sales in Europe will rise to 51.97 million units in 2009, up 3.4% from 50.2 million in 2008, while LCD TVs will account for 79% of the market, and will see their sales rise by a robust 17.5% in 2009 to reach 41.1 million units, up from 35 million in 2008, according to iSuppli.
According to the European Commission's recent reports, indications of an economic recovery from what were record lows have been confirmed by improved business and consumer confidence in the 16 euro-using-countries in May, the second month in a row.
According to the European Commission, the index of business and consumer confidence in the euro zone increased to 69.3 in May, up from 67.2 in April - the highest level since November 2008. Consumer spending also has increased in all major European countries, including France and Germany. Overall, the region's economy has stabilized, but concerns remain about the labor market and rising unemployment rates, which could counter the impact of lower inflation rates on household spending. Nevertheless, despite mixed signals, there are more positive signs of an economic recovery taking place in Europe than there are negative indicators, said iSuppli.
The continued growth in Europe's LCD TV market is attributed to increased demand in Eastern Europe for both first-time and replacement buyers. Declining prices have made LCD TVs attractive to consumers across various income levels. The introduction of new features, such as 120/240Hz refresh rates and LED backlights, is also stimulating sales.
CRT TV, which continue to lose ground in Europe, will suffer a 40.2% decline in sales compounded annually between 2008 and 2013. During the same time frame, PDP TV sales will decline at 16.4% compounded rate while LCD TVs will grow at a 11.5% CAGR to reach 60.3 million units in 2013.
http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20090618PR204.html
