Triple reduction in the share of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) in the imports against 2016 (from 69 to 22 mln pcs) was one of the most significant changes in the structure of bulb imports to Russia during 2017. The CFL share in the quantitative volume of imports was 5.81 % for 2017, 16.23 % for 2016, 15.53 % for Q1-Q3 2015.
Here are the reasons for the CFL share reduction:
It is safe to say that LED bulb manufacturers have been successful in persuading retail consumers in reliability and efficiency of their bulbs. Although they still cost slightly higher than CFLs, manufacturers' warranties and consumer features of LED bulbs allow them to drive other types of bulb out of the market.
- Obsolete technology. CFL bulb efficiency has reached its maximum and will unlikely increase.
- Relative price stability, while the prices for alternative lamps decreased. LED bulb prices were decreasing continuously during the past three years, having become comparable with CFL prices.
- Replacement of CFL in narrow niches; i.e., continuous enhancement of LED bulb product range have driven CFL sout of narrow niches.
- No manufacturers' warranties. Longevity and consumer features of LED bulbs are confirmed by the warranty of manufacturers, willing to replace the bulbs even after 3 years of operation.
It is safe to say that LED bulb manufacturers have been successful in persuading retail consumers in reliability and efficiency of their bulbs. Although they still cost slightly higher than CFLs, manufacturers' warranties and consumer features of LED bulbs allow them to drive other types of bulb out of the market.
