Panasonic Offers Custom-Built Plasma Frames

SECAUCUS, N.J.— Panasonic has introduced a line of custom-built frames to complement its 42W-inch and 50W-inch plasma televisions.

The company said the frames, which in some cases resemble frames used on fine art, enable consumers to blend the look of the plasma set with the décor of nicely furnished room.

Panasonic is showcasing the new frames in their eight different styles at its www.PanasonicDirect.com/masterpiece Web site.

Frames will be available in gold, black, pewter, mahogany, walnut and antique white finishes, and will be priced at suggested retails ranging from $399.95 to $499.95, depending on style and the total package.

Panasonic said the frames are the first products offered exclusively through its Panasonic direct e-business. On the site, customers will be able to “design their distinctive plasma televisions and order the complete package, including installation.”

“This is a great opportunity to work directly with our valued customers as part of Panasonic's goal to provide 'Extreme Customer Satisfaction,'” said Merwan Mereby, Panasonic e-business VP. “With the rapid growth in flat-panel displays, and the fact that many plasmas for both the home and business venues are now wall mounted, these unique frames give people the opportunity to really personalize their viewing environments.”

Panasonic said the frames should appeal to both residential applications and in corporate settings and public venues such as board rooms, hotel lobbies and reception areas. The company is also targeting various hotels and businesses throughout the country for placement of the frames to showcase the product's versatility and gauge consumer reaction.

Panasonic said it is planning to advertise the new plasma customized options on the Internet as well as via print ads in lifestyle and home décor publications, beginning this month.