Direct approach for Philips

Philips Media has set up a direct sales operation for its entire CD-i and VideoCD catalogue, following a "dramatically reduced retail exposure" on the high street.

Branded CD-i, the operation will provide a service for a 100,000-strong UK customer base which "is finding it increasingly difficult to source titles from local stores," Philips Media marketing manager Samantha Paynter said.

She attributed the decline of CD-i and Video CD software on the high street to the failure of "hardware penetration to gain pace".

Paynter predicted new Video CD products such as in-car entertainment systems would stimulate software sales. "Retailers still in the CD-i software business are doing very well," she claimed.

Leisuresoft, Philip Media's distribution subsidiary, will handle fulfilment for CD-i's 250-plus roster of titles. Philips has yet to decide the frequency of distribution, but said it was unlikely to publish more than two or three CD-i catalogues a year.