Germany recorded a five-fold increase in Blu-ray player sales in the first three months of 2009, compared to the same period last year.
The German Federal Association for Audiovisual Media reports 1.1 million units were sold between January and March, 402% more than during the same period last year.
Revenues from the sale of Blu-ray discs also rose as DVD revenues began to slip. Blu-ray movie revenues rose 267% to 23 million euros, while DVD sales revenues slipped 5% to 280 million euros. The average price of a Blu-ray title dropped from 27.75 euros in 2008 to 20.30 euros in 2009.
"For the home entertainment industry, the biggest period is by far the fourth quarter, we can expect nine-figure sales revenues, despite aggressive pricing by retailers," said spokesperson Oliver Trettin.
