Blu-ray Makes Strong Showing On Black Friday

Despite the current bellyache in the American economy, it can't hold Blu-ray down for too long.  Despite frigid temps, and early store openings, the Blu-ray bargains were simply too good to pass up on the day after Thanksgiving, and the unofficial start of holiday shopping.  A poll by the Greenfield group reports the following:

1. Two-thirds are interested in purchasing a sub-$150 player as a gift.

2.  More than 72% are interested in purchasing software for a family member.

3.  Nearly two-thirds think purchasing a $25 Blu-ray disc is a better value than going to the movies, dinner or a concert.

In addition, apparently there were 150,000 Blu-ray players sold on Black Friday alone, up 300% from last year.  While HD DVD was cheaper last year which might explain the sales surge, there's also one more important stat: Nine out of ten Blu-ray owners would recommend the technology to potential buyers.  Hmmm.  Never estimate the value of a "Word of mouth" campaign.  Blu-ray just might be on a roll for 2009.