Matsushita to Sell Super-Sized 103" Plasma TV (MC)

From September 1st Matsushita Electric Industrial (MC) will begin taking orders for the world's biggest plasma television at 103 inches. In a Japanese language article, Kyodo news listed dimensions of 1.3 meters high and 2.3 meters wide (see the picture to the left). They are expected to sell for 6 million yen or a little over US$51,000 at the current exchange rate.

According to Kyodo, the largest plasma TV sold in domestic Japan to-date was 65" by Sharp Corp (SHCAY) and Matsushita.

Matsushita is clearly seeking to exploit plasma's advantages in size over rival LCD models.

The Wall Street Journal-Dow Jones (paid sub req) reported that Matsushita expects to sell 5000 units annually with about 10% of those in Japan. It will also be offering three other models from September in the 50-65 inch range at prices between 600,000-990,000 yen ($5,140-$8,480). The WSJ-DJ article cited Matsushita director Shunzo Ushimaru who said his firm could combat falling flat panel TV prices by bundling sales with DVD recorders and other audio components.

Hitachi Ltd (HIT) announced late last week that it wants to expand its market share by offering larger plasma display televisions in the 60+ inch range. (Click here for related post.)

Ordinary shares of Matsushita (Tokyo: 6752) gained 0.72% on Wednesday to close at 2,100 yen ($17.98). Matsushita's ADRs closed yesterday at $18.00. Matsushita reports quarterly earnings next Wednesday.

Matsushita Electric Industrial (MC) 1-year chart:

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[Steven Towns:]

Matsushita has a press release available in English with more details and comments. Click here for access.

2006 Jul 19 01:25 PM