Philips Pronto winds down.....

Philips Pronto, which has been a major competitor in the home cinema market for years has announced that it is to shut down production. Insiders would know that Philips has actually been struggling to find a buyer for the Pronto remote line since 2009. They haven't been successful in the search, so they're simply shutting it down and saying that Pronto "no longer fits with the Philips strategy." Here's the official line:

“In December 2009, Philips announced the intention to relocate some of its existing remote control activities in Leuven, Belgium to Asia. At the same time, the intention was communicated to investigate alternative strategic options for the Pronto business, as this activity no longer fits with the Philips strategy. Following thorough research, no suitable partner was found for the acquisition of these activities. As such, Philips confirms today that it will discontinue the Pronto product line and related activities.”

Future Lifestyle had no prior knowledge of this decision and is both surprised and disappointed by Philips decision to close such a successful division. It is clear from the statement that the decision was taken at a senior board level outside of the Pronto team, and is related to a wider divisional restructure rather than a reflection on the Pronto range itself.

It is not yet clear if this is the end of Pronto, as there is apparently new interest from various parties regarding a possible buyout. If anything confirmed comes to light we will be sure to inform you, but in the meantime we would like to do is clarify that: 

Future Lifestyle will continue to support all of the Pronto remote controls it has installed over the years. We have also found a replacement for all-in-one remote control installations to fit all size and complexity of set ups.
For more information contact a member of the sales team on +34 902 107 227 or at sales@futurelifestyle.es