Richard Seesel

Best Buy Seeks First Forever Status with 3-D TVs

March 17, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
Best Buy is betting that by being first out out of the gate with 3-D television offerings, it will establish a hold on the category. Do you agree that it is important for Best Buy to get out in front as the leader in 3-D televisions for it to succeed once the technology achieves widespread adoption?      [more...]

The 17% survey result (that 3D sets will be widespread in the next five years) is probably a low number compared to what will really happen. Time and time again, there is a back-and-forth between the spreading of new technology and lower prices to consumers...as this happens, new technology invariably reaches mass appeal. Look at the popularity of Blu-ray players...and, for that matter, large-screen TV's as an overall category.

That being said, it's vitally important for the category leader in consumer electronics retail (Best Buy) to establish a beachhead in 3D televisions. Credibility among "early adopters" is a must for Best Buy, and the long-term commercial potential for 3D sets is significant (even if it reaches "only" 17%).