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The impact of announcing analogue switch-off on UK retailers and manufacturers: A report by Opta for the DTI

23 March 2005

This report was commissioned by DTI in early 2004 as one element of the work underpinning the Regulatory and Environmental Impact Assessment of digital switchover on different stakeholders.

The report aims to estimate the impact of the Government announcing a specific timetable for analogue switch-off on consumer purchasing decisions, on retailers and on UK-based manufacturers and of TV reception equipment. Opta was asked to consider two scenarios: an announcement around the end of 2004 stating that switchover would be completed by the end of 2010, and a timetable with completion of switchover by the end of 2011. The findings are products of those parameters. The study covered TV receivers, set top boxes, TV recording devices (VCRs, recordable DVDs and PVRs) and aerials.

DTI greatly appreciates the contributions made to these findings by organisations and individuals from across the sector.

The report indicates probable benefits for the sector deriving from an established switch-off policy, and a firm and realistic timetable. It indicates that an early announcement of the timetable, while working around seasonal patterns of activity, would allow retailers and manufacturers to make the best preparations. The importance of effective communication is also highlighted, to minimise consumer uncertainty, and to simplify sales processes.

Opta report PDF (325kb)

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