By George Anderson
Super Bowl XL is less than a month away and the big game in Detroit means big sales for a number of retailers, especially those selling big screen televisions.
Last year, according to NPD Group, sales of the top 10 television models were higher in January than eight of 11 months preceding it. While other consumer electronics see sales tail off after Christmas, televisions continue selling well in the period right after the holiday.
Randy Baumberger, the president and chief operating officer of Ultimate Electronics, told The Associated Press, "The NFL and the college bowl season is the gift that keeps on giving for us."
Many analysts say that declining prices and an emphasis on high definition program viewing and game playing should only add to the television shopping frenzy this year.
Paul Semenza, vice president of display and consumer research at iSuppli Corp., said television sales are further indication of the channel blurring effect. "You can now buy TVs at supermarkets and office superstores, not to mention Costco and Wal-Mart," he said.
Moderator's Comment: What marketing and sales opportunities do you see for retailers (consumer electronics and otherwise) around the Super Bowl? What outside-the-box recommendations do you have for retailers looking to win big this year and in the future? - George Anderson - Moderator