TFT-LCD Polarizer Revenue Expected to Fall for the First Time in 2009

The latest research from DisplaySearch indicates that TFT LCD polarizer sales are expected to fall in 2009, marking the first time that this segment has experienced negative growth. The decline will be a result of severe price pressure from panel makers and a fall in panel demand and inventory adjustments by panel makers, as noted in the DisplaySearch Q4’08 Quarterly Display Optical Film Report.
“The economic downturn has had a significant impact on several display technology segments and the TFT-LCD polarizer sector is no exception,” noted Brian Chen, DisplaySearch Director of TFT LCD & Materials Market Research. “We expect 2009 TFT LCD polarizer market revenue to fall to $5.71 B, down 1% Y/Y.”

TFT LCD polarizer demand suddenly fell at the end of Q3’08 because TFT LCD producers adjusted capacity utilization very sharply, especially in Taiwan and China. As a result, in Q4’08 most polarizer suppliers utilized less than 50% capacity in their fabs.
“We expect that polarizer suppliers will become increasingly competitive, fighting hard for orders to maintain market share and fab loading rates in 2009. Thus, while polarizer area shipments will increase in 2009, sales revenues are expected to decrease,” Chen added.

In addition to TFT LCD polarizers, the DisplaySearch Q4’08 Quarterly Display Optical Film Report covers other key optical films such as prism films, multi-function prism, micro lens films, reflective polarizers, diffuser films and reflector films by market size, market share and other market dynamics. The report is delivered in PowerPoint. For more information, contact DisplaySearch sales at +1.512.687.1511 or via email at sales@displaysearch.com.

DisplaySearch, http://www.displaysearch.com