Sony has announced that it will stop selling almost all home cinema projectors and some installation projectors in Europe. The background to this decision is EU sanctions against a contract manufacturer that apparently supplies the Russian military.
Important points
- A Sony supplier is suspected of supplying the Russian military, leading to EU sanctions.
- Almost all Sony projectors, including the Bravia 9 and Bravia 8 models, are affected.
- The professional model VPL-GTZ380 remains available.
- Dealers are only allowed to sell existing stock.
Background to the sales stop
The European Union has imposed sanctions on companies that directly or indirectly support the Russian military. These measures are aimed at preventing the supply of components that could be used in military equipment such as drones or missiles.
A Sony contract manufacturer is apparently affected by these sanctions as it is linked to such supplies. Although Sony itself is not directly sanctioned, the distribution of its products manufactured by this supplier is affected.
Affected Sony products and models
The sales ban covers almost the entire range of Sony home theater projectors. This includes in particular the Bravia 9 (VPL-XW8100) and Bravia 8 (VPL-XW6100) models, which were only launched in September 2024. These devices were known for their advanced technology and high picture quality and were very popular with home cinema enthusiasts.
Only the high-priced professional model VPL-GTZ380, which is available from a price of over €79,000, remains available on the European market. This model is apparently not produced by the contract manufacturer concerned and is therefore not subject to the restrictions mentioned.
Impact on the market and consumers
For consumers, this move means that the availability of Sony projectors in Europe will be severely restricted. Dealers will only be allowed to sell their current stock and will no longer be able to import new devices. This could lead to shortages and possible price increases for the remaining devices. In addition, customers who rely on Sony projectors could be forced to switch to alternative brands or models to cover their needs.
Conclusion
Sony’s decision to stop selling almost all projectors in Europe is a direct result of EU sanctions against one of its contract manufacturers. This measure illustrates the far-reaching effects of international trade restrictions on companies and consumers. Interested parties should therefore inform themselves promptly about available alternatives or fall back on the few models still available, such as the VPL-GTZ380, if this is financially feasible.
