Sharp has predicted that by 2015, the average LCD screen size for televisions in European households will be 60 inches.

Sharp Electronics, the Japanese manufacturer and developer of electronic goods, has revealed that the size of television screens is on the increase – and has predicted that the average LCD screen size in European households will measure 60 inches by 2015.

Figures from Gfk, a UK market research organisation, show that sales of large flat-screens have risen by 182% year-on-year. Sharp has experienced a 150% increase in sales of its 46 inch range of televisions over the last 12 months, surpassing the 46% increase in sales of its 42 inch television range – its most popular screen size of last year.

Sharp attributes this rise in sales to the growing availability and affordability of the models. The company’s Head of Marketing and Communications for its UK division, Mike Gabriel, commented: “More and more people are seeking to make the most out of their digital TV’s potential and are using new technology available to do this. Developments such as High-Definition (HD) broadcasts and Blu-ray technology are allowing people to sit close up to their TV screens and experience cinematic quality in the comfort of their own living room.

“Big screens are no longer just for shop windows or shiny office receptions. The demand for HD-ready 1080p picture quality in the home has led to an increase in both the affordability and availability of larger TVs.”

Sony, the global technological manufacturer, has also witnessed increased demand for larger sized LCD televisions. In October, mass production of television sets began at the company’s newly-constructed Bravia LCD TV factory, which has the capacity to produce around three million television sets in 2008.