A renaissance in sound systems is set to drive retail on consumer electronics stores sales as consumers demand better quality audio to go with their new TV’s claims the Marketing Director of JB Hi Fi.
Scott Browning said that the big issue that is holding back sales is the lack of a big sound vendor to drive awareness or implement marketing programs that will drive consumers into stores. Retailers will have to do this he said.
“Consumers want better quality sound and we believe that there are big opportunities ahead for us in this area. We are seeing some very smart receivers coming through with connectivity. Wi Fi sound is set to be big and there has been a big improvement in the look and feel of speakers,” he said.
Among the vendors looking to move back into the audio Hi Fi market is Sony, claims Browning. Overseas, Sony who were once a major player in the mass Hi Fi market in Australia, has an extensive range of Hi Fi equipment. Also expanding their offering is Pioneer who last month launched an extensive range of Hi Fi gear including a new generation of receivers.
Browning said: “Home sound or Hi Fi is set to make a renaissance and we are looking to take advantage of this. Audio today is all about high theatre with sound and quality audio, consumers are struggling to get high quality sound with some of their lifestyle systems that struggle to deliver output”.
“We are seeing a lot of high quality receivers with a lot of capability. A lot of the new models have wireless and iPod connectivity and are excellent for both two channel and multi channel sound. The only problem is that there is a lack of education and consumers are not aware of the benefits that a good sound system will deliver over a basic home theatre offering”.
Rob Thompson, General Manager at Pioneer, said: “We currently work with JB Hi Fi and we agree that there are opportunities to grow Hi Fi sales. We believe that with education and a commitment by retailers that audio sales can be taken to where they once were. Last month we launched an extensive range of new Hi Fi systems and we are in an excellent position to take advantage of an increase in demand “.
