Wal-Mart to Broaden Focus on Blu-ray

Wal-Mart is committed to rolling out its ‘Blu-ray Experience Area' (which ties in high-definition hardware and software into a central merchandising space within Walmart's entertainment department) to more of its stores during 2010. The chain believes that as pricing has dropped for hardware and software, Wal-Mart's family customer base is now seriously willing to upgrade their home entertainment systems to Blu-ray.

Wal-Mart didn't give data on Blu-ray sales volume or growth. However, the retailer has aggressively promoted Blu-ray in the fourth quarter of 2009. Customers seemed to respond, as during the days before the Christmas holiday, five Blu-ray titles were listed within Walmart.com's overall best DVD/Blu-ray sellers.

However, Wal-Mart management believes the transition from standard-def to high-def will be gradual for its customers.