It appears that giant retailer Wal-Mart’s aggressive Blu-ray sales over the last quarter has paid off, with the company now about tied with Best Buy for BD market share.
The numbers, via the NPD Group, show that Wal-Mart now commands 30 percent market share of Blu-ray disc sales, about even with Best Buy at 35 percent. In May, Wal-Mart had around 20 percent while Best Buy had an impressive 45 percent.
Despite usually having better prices than BB, Amazon and Target remained in third and fourth place, with about 15 percent and 10 percent respectively.
Overall, consumer spending on BD movies was up 83 percent year-on-year, and retail chains are actively fighting for market share.
“We’re seeing it as more of a horse race with Blu-ray,” adds Russ Crupnick, senior entertainment industry analyst for NPD, via VB. “I think Walmart has made a strong effort over the past year, being aggressive with price. They are very specifically targeting an untapped market. They are saying this isn’t just a high-tech product. It’s something that women and families can enjoy.”
Result for: retail chain
Wal-Mart has announced it has started a new Nintendo Wii promotion, offering a $50 giftcard with any purchase of the $199 console.
The deal starts on Saturday and lasts until December 12th, or while supplies last.
Additionally, the retail chain will be offering up to 20 percent off “top 2009 videogames” including Halo:ODST and the new Tekken 6.
“Even in these economic times, we see how important it is for Santa, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, husbands, wives, boyfriends and girlfriends to be able to give the perfect gift,” says Wal-Mart. “We also know that a lot of wish lists today—for all ages—include a range of videogames. Well, this weekend we’re planning to make a little ‘Wii History’ … so to speak.”
Check the blog post here: Wal-Mart Check Out
Result for: retail chain
Although it is unclear why, Best Buy has been given a one month exclusive head start for the Universal Blu-ray films Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz.
The two titles are currently available at the retail chain, and Universal says they won’t be available anywhere else until September 22nd.
Besy Buy has long been considered the top retailer for Blu-ray films and both films are expected to sell well.
It also appears that Best Buy has been given an exclusive run with the Anchor Bay Entertainment’s Blu-ray Grace which will become available elsewhere on September 15th.
