As consumers embrace new tech.

Ahead of the much-anticipated 2018 FIFA World Cup to be held in Russia from June 15, retailers from around the country have shared their insights and expectations on how the sporting event will spruik the home entertainment category.

Harvey Norman

As one of the most widely viewed sporting events, Harvey Norman general manager of audio visual, Ajay Calpakam, expects the FIFA World Cup to drive a marginal uplift in television and soundbar sales.

“When consumers look to upgrade their television, there is demand for larger screen sizes, superior picture quality, great design, smart functionality and a quality soundbar to accompany the TV viewing experience.

“Samsung’s new and enhanced QLED technology offers superb quality and style, along with a smart experience; Sony’s OLED TV has an ultra-premium design, complemented by Acoustic Surface speaker technology; the LG Wallpaper OLED TV offers a true cinematic experience thanks to 4K HDR Dolby Vision picture and Dolby Vision sound, and Hisense continues to drive its ULED technology with HDR Plus and HDR Supreme for amazing picture quality.”

He made note that consumers tend to trust and stick to reputable brands as they offer choice in value, design, feature set and service. He also said artificial intelligence, voice activation and Internet of Things (IoT) present a huge opportunity for the home entertainment category. However, a key challenge is free-to-air content only being available in High Definition, so unless connected to a 4K Blue-Ray player or high speed internet, consumers do not see the true picture quality.

JB Hi-Fi

A JB Hi-Fi spokesperson said any major sporting event always has a positive result on TV sales, which gives retailers the opportunity to attach audio products at the same time. “With pricing of larger screen sizes, 75-inch and above, becoming more affordable, there is no doubt consumers will see the value in the larger screen sizes as they look to upgrade.”

Newly introduced voice activation for users to control their TV, improvements in smart platforms and enhanced chip sets to drive better picture quality, will be displayed in store and brought to life for consumers to see the difference.

“Picture quality and smart platforms are major factors when consumers purchase a new TV. Brand preference plays a part as well as our customers trust the knowledge of our tech savvy staff who know their products and have a passion for selling the latest innovation.”

Today’s consumer does most of their research online so when they visit a store they have a fair idea of what they want. “Brand and price will always play a role in the decision making process but it isn’t the only reason for purchase. Promotional activity and our tech savvy staff keep us top of mind for when the consumer is ready to purchase.”

VideoPro

Sport is a key sales driver for customers to upgrade TV and home theatre systems, according to VideoPro director of buyer, Scott Govenlock. “With the hype around the Socceroos playing in the World Cup, and some of the games in prime time, we expect good sales.”

Consumers buy TV and audio products all year around, however there is a significant uplift around the World Cup and EOFY sale period. “Brands will look to drive the market with added value promotions or price points that allow customers to upgrade to larger screen sizes.”

OLED TV technology is the main technology driver this year, he said, with new models from LG, Hisense, Panasonic and Sony. Samsung has also introduced a new range of premium QLED TVs. He also said Dolby Atmos will be the key feature to bring a more cinematic experience to soundbars and home theatre systems.

“Larger screen sizes, Ultra HD resolution with better colour and contrast dynamics, smart features like Netflix, and voice control integration are key considerations for new TVs. In audio, Atmos surround sound and slim stylish design is important.”

Due to the fast paced nature of the category, he said retailers need to ensure customers are fully informed on new features. “There is opportunity around the Google and Alexa Voice Assistant, picture quality improvements of OLED and QLED TVs, and Atmos audio features in soundbars.”