HDTV looking popular for Christmas

The popularity of HDTV is growing both in the UK and abroad, with Christmas looking set to bring good sales.

In the UK, consumer electronics retailer Curry’s has just reported a 6% increase in sales, driven by growing sales of flat panel, high definition televisions and laptop computers.

According to DSG International which owns the Curry’s chain, the UK and Ireland electricals division increased sales by 5% in the 24 weeks to October 13. This equates to 6% when changes to store space are excluded.

Although DSG expects year-on-year profits for the period to be lower, mainly because of price cuts at DSG’s PC World stores, the Christmas trading season usually accounts for around half of annual profits.

With customer’s showing a healthy appetite for flat-panel TVs, laptop computers and games consoles, the company is optimistic about Christmas sales throughout Europe.

Flat screen TVs are also proving popular across the Atlantic. A recent survey by Solutions Research Group placed flat-screen HDTVs at the top of Christmas wish lists for 33% of online Americans.

A new Windows laptop was in second place - 20% of those surveyed placed this at the top of their list - with 17% wanting a digital camera and 14% a new Windows desktop PC.