Retailers giving HD DVD / Blu-ray titles more floor space, educating consumers

Considering Blockbuster is already trialing HD DVD and Blu-ray rentals in brick-and-mortar locations, Netflix's full backing of the formats, and the record-setting performance of Paramount's M:I III, we'd say that opening up a bit more shelf space for next-gen flicks is a fairly intelligent business move. The Video Buyers Group's 1,700 members will launch HD DVD and Blu-ray sections this month in anticipation of holiday sales, and numerous Targets are going out of their way to not only provide easier access to next-gen store displays, but to educate consumers on the technology behind the buzz as well. Reportedly, the bullseye-clad stores will boast "signage highlighting key differences between the formats," including clear alerts that signify what hardware is necessary to play back the snazzy HD discs. So when perusing the (presumably crowded) aisles this holiday season for those must-have titles, don't be alarmed to see next-generation setups placed front and center in the electronics department -- well, behind the Wii and Playstation 3 goods, of course.

[(Unverified) Posted Nov 11th 2006 3:03AM]

I was in Target a few weeks ago and saw the Blu-ray/HD-DVD section on the wall of DVDs.

It's not as "front and center" as BBuy, but at least they didn't shove the HD titles in between the SD DVDs.

They really need a working display unit like BBuy or the Sony Store. The best way to educate curious consumers is to show them the HD difference. Otherwise people won't even notice it between special editions of Grease and Baywatch season 5 boxset.

http://www.hdformatwar.com