UK television market dominated by Samsung, Panasonic and Sony

The UK television market has been predicted to witness a surge in sales through 2012, however over the period to 2016 sales are expected to fall by 8%.

Televisions are one of the last major areas of consumer technology left untouched by integration with the internet. Set-top boxes designed to change this have so far in the US been relatively unsuccessful, and are likely to fare no better in the UK; high upfront costs and crippling restrictions imposed by rights holders on viewable content available online tend to severely devalue the proposition.

Samsung Electronics (UK) Ltd continued to be leading player in the UK television market with a volume share of over 16% in 2011. The company was closely followed by Panasonic UK Ltd and Sony UK Ltd, which achieved volume shares of 14% and 12% respectively. Due to very high research and development costs and narrow margins on small TVs, smaller companies were unable to maintain their positions against the multinationals.

In plasma TVs, Panasonic UK Ltd remained the leader with a volume share of 47%, while in LCD TVs Samsung and LG saw the most significant increases, driven by large screen offerings. Samsung Electronics UK continued to lead this niche with a 25% volume share in 2011.

The television market has been under increased pressure in recent years, as steady commoditisation and a lack of paradigm-shifting technology (since high-definition) have taken their toll on year-on-year value sales. Manufacturers are hoping that 3D capability and smart connectivity will address these issues, but the indications from consumers are not positive.

The key factor limiting growth potential is the on-going delicate economic situation in the country. Consumers are expected to continue to be cautious regarding any new purchases of larger items such as TVs, delaying replacement purchases unless absolutely necessary.

For more information on the UK television market, see the latest research: UK Television Market

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