Europe: Blu-ray Unit Sales Increased 167% in 2009

According to the Digital Entertainment Group Europe (DEGE), Blu-ray disc unit sales soared 167% in Europe last year. During the course of 2009, 22 million Blu-ray Discs were sold. Sales revenue was 443 million euros ($603 million), up 109% over sales revenue in 2008. The growth was attributed to marketing campaigns, and lower prices in HDTV and Blu-ray.

DEGE chairman SVP Yves Caillaud, speaking at the annual general meeting in London, said: “Blu-ray is gaining further momentum in Europe thanks to a concerted cross-industry promotional effort, near universal penetration of high-definition TVs, increased consumer awareness and greater player affordability.” He added: “Last year was never going to be easy, but in comparison to many other similar sized industries, the European home entertainment businesses in 2009 held up well.”