Over the past few years sales of DVDs have declined for the first time since they came to market in the mid-nineties. Last year alone sales were off by nearly ten percent, and while the recession might be partially to blame, there are several other factors affecting sales.
First and foremost, the DVD is a relatively old technology. As we mentioned, it was introduced in 1995, and since that time other superior technologies that also rely on optical discs have become available. Probably the most popular of these is the Blu-Ray. These discs not only store more information, they also provide a better picture.
Then there is the fact that sales of DVD players are approaching saturation levels. What we mean is that more than eighty percent of homes in the UK have a DVD player, which leaves little room for growth. Not to mention the incredible growth of DVD rental websites .
What are they? A DVD rental website is a site where members can quickly and easily order any DVD they want with the click of a button. These DVDs are then delivered by mail within a day or two. The customer can keep these DVDs for as long as he wants before he returns them and requests another movie.
That means no trips to the video store and no late fees. It is not surprising then why rentals for DVDs are on the rise while sales are on the decline. Last year, DVD rentals were up by more than eight percent and the trend is expected to continue.
