Toshiba responds to Woolworths HD-DVD cull

Toshiba has spoken out in response to Woolworths’ announcement that it is to phase out HD-DVD from its stores in March.

The retailer revealed today that it would only sell the format via its website in future, after Blu-Ray outsold HD-DVD by ten-to-one in its stores over Christmas.

European assistant general manager in Toshiba’s UK consumer products division Olivier Van Wynendaele told MCV:

We have been hugely successful in expanding the number of consumers owning HD-DVD players. UK consumers can now pick-up an HD-DVD player for less than 150, around half the cost of other HD formats. Even before pricing reached this level, HD-DVD represented more than 60 per cent of the overall standalone high definition market.

Just as importantly for movie retailers, HD-DVD has always enjoyed greater software sales per player than any other HD format. In fact, HD-DVD owners have already bought around 3.5 movies each, compared to less than one movie sold per Blu ray device.

While we’re disappointed by Woolworths’ decision, it is extremely early to spot which format will eventually win. As the figures I mention show – where consumers have a choice, they choose HD-DVD.

"We’re confident that HD-DVD’s affordability, fantastic choice of movies, great consumer experience and upcoming promotions will help it continue to strengthen its share of the market.”