Target Adds Installation Option – Target stores have partnered with Zip Express Installation which has a national infrastructure of nearly 16,000 home theater and wireless home network installers. Shoppers can select to have their purchases installed by the third-party company when purchasing any major consumer electronics. They then can call a toll-free number or visit a web site to schedule the time for the installation. Several options are available starting at $129. Installation includes removal of all trash and training on how to use the new setup.
Blu-ray Manufacturer Doubles Production – Due to increasing demand, Ritek of Taiwan is doubling their monthly production capacity of Blu-ray recordable discs. Existing standard DVD productions lines are being upgraded to Blu-ray to support the expansion. By the end of this year Ritek plans to add another Blu-ray line, tripling their capacity to 750,000 units. Increases in BD manufacturing and competition is driving down pricing on Blu-ray recordable discs worldwide. Lower-priced discs could increase the demand for Blu-ray burners, leading to more business for the BD-R suppliers.
Recycling Thru the Mail – A service has been launched in Tupelo, Mississippi to allow residents to recycle their used batteries and fluorescent bulbs thru the mail. The city’s contract garbage hauler, Waste Management, doesn’t accept those items at curbside because they require special handling. Recycling kits are ordered from a web site and shipped to residents, who then place their recyclables inside and send them back thru the mail to a special recycling center near Minneapolis. The boxes are also recycled, and the entire service is free. If successful, the program will be expanded to include items such as home electronics and computers.
