Why Batteries & Light Bulbs?

Here are some quick facts to consider when evaluating a specialty franchise in a technology industry such as batteries and light bulbs.

Widespread Usage - The average US household has 21 different battery-operated devices and over 45 light bulb sockets.

The U.S. Demand for Batteries is growing an estimated 4.1% annually and projected to be a $34.6 billion industry by 2014*

The U.S. Demand for Light Bulbs is estimated to be a $14 billion industry, growing 5% annually*

Rayovac® Batteries - The Rayovac® brand owns the largest market share of industrial alkaline primary batteries and is the top brand used in scanners.

Laptop Computers - 26.4 million laptops were sold in the U.S. in 2010 and that number is expected to grow to 38.9 million in 2015, representing a 10% annual sales increase.² Our franchise opportunity offers access to over 500 laptop models, 98% of all laptop models on the market, through our wholly owned subsidiary, Ascent Supply.

Handheld Devices - The electronics and household markets are continuing to develop and launch products operated solely on battery power. Consumers purchasing these devices live by them and when the battery goes dead, they need a local source for help. Batteries Plus locations continue to offer battery replacements for the latest and greatest gadgets including tablets, robotic vacuum cleaners, universal remote controls, handheld GPS units and more.

Cell/Smart Phones - In the U.S., 91% of all citizens use cell phones on a daily basis with over 300 million devices being active at the beginning of 2010.³ The average consumer now keeps their phones for an average of 20.5 months.⁴ Smart phone usage has increased by over 30% from 2009 to 2010⁵, with extended features continually draining the original battery and increasing the demand for replacement after-market batteries.

Digital Camera - The industry continues to release new cameras and camcorders with expanded features that can quickly drain the battery life. Many consumers now need a spare battery to make sure they do not miss that big moment. Batteries Plus locations have full access to batteries for the majority of these models. Digital Camera sales experienced a record year in 2010, with a further increase in sales predicted for 2011.⁶

Wheelchairs & Other Personal Mobility Devices - U.S. demand for wheelchairs and other personal mobility devices is projected to increase due to a continually aging U.S. population moving toward higher usage of battery operated wheelchairs, scooters, and golf carts.

Light Bulbs - The U.S. light bulb industry is about to go through a massive, confusing overhaul that the average consumer is not prepared for. Very soon, typical light bulbs that consumers are used to purchasing will no longer be available so a replacement option is necessary. Batteries Plus is in a position to offer the expertise and assistance consumers need to make sure they get the right light bulbs for their needs. Batteries Plus locations offer a full line of light bulbs including LED, incandescent, and energy saving compact fluorescent light bulbs.

*Freedonia Research Study
²www.mashable.com
³www.ctia.org
⁴www.engadget.com
⁵http://blog.nielsen.com
⁶http://pmanewsline.com