Panasonic Batteries Hit Circuit City Store Shelves

June 1, 2004 -- Panasonic today announced that its full line of consumer batteries is now available at Circuit City stores nationwide. From rechargeable battery systems to supercharged alkaline and lithium batteries for digital electronics, Panasonic's battery line provides long-lasting options for powering consumers' digital lifestyles. The full battery line joins the already diverse assortment of Panasonic consumer electronics products currently available at Circuit City stores.

With more than 600 stores in 158 markets nationwide, Circuit City is known for its broad selection of industry-leading brand name consumer electronics. The new retail distribution of Panasonic batteries, with its strong brand name awareness, adds flexibility and reliability to consumers' choices at Circuit City.

"We are thrilled to have our battery brand at Circuit City," said Michael Aguilar, president, national sales group, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "The strength of the Panasonic and Circuit City brand names, coupled with our battery product quality, consumer-friendly packaging, and exciting promotional programs, will help make this new retail agreement a win for Circuit City, Panasonic and the consumer."

"We are pleased to carry Panasonic's new battery line, which offers our customers more options when it comes to powering their products," said Clif Denney, senior vice president and general merchandise manager for Circuit City.

The battery industry is expected to reach $15.5 billion in U.S. sales by 2007, an anticipated average annual growth rate of nearly 6.5 percent since 2002. This estimated increase is based on the growing demand for high-drain battery powered electronics products, including digital still cameras, camcorders, and portable CD players. Panasonic is addressing this new consumer demand with broader retail distribution, flexible merchandising and promotional programs, and an expanding line of products that includes Panasonic Alkaline for Digital Electronics, Lithium batteries for Digital Electronics, and the powerful up to 2100 mAh nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) rechargeable battery system.

Additional information on Matsushita and Panasonic is available at www.panasonic.com.

SOURCE Panasonic