LED package manufacturer Unity Opto has formed a close partnership with B&Q in Taiwan, and is an OEM of the home improvement retailer brand’s LED bulbs. B&Q’s “Super Value LED Bulb” costs only NT $99 (US $3), which is less expensive than Philips’ US $5 light bulb launched in summer and nearing the lowest pricing benchmark of US $2.5 per bulb in U.S. The low- priced LED bulbs will ignite fierce competition in Taiwan’s domestic market, reported Economic Daily News (EDN).

Upon partnering with Unity Opto’s has launched its “Super Value Brand” LED bulbs, which were available throughout its 26 branches in Taiwan since November, 2015. These NT $99 (US $3)- LED-bulbs are replacements for conventional 60W bulbs, and made in Taiwan, emphasized Unity Opto. In addition, the acquisition of Toshiba Lighting’s European distribution right and OEM opportunities enables the company’s launch of high-end LED bulbs. Meanwhile, the partnership between B&Q and Unity Opto provides consumers with products at a wide range of prices and specifications.

In the past three years the company's market share in North America has exceeded 10%, said Jacky Weng, spokesman of Unity Opto. Along from winning Toshiba’s European distribution right, the company is expected to expand market presence in Europe in the future.

In Taiwan, annual LED bulbs sales volume has reached 3 million, according to B&Q’s data. LED lighting products overall revenue share rose to 31% in 2013 for lighting products and has peaked to 45% in 2015. The price of LED bulbs has dropped down to NT $100 (US $3), which is approaching CFL bulbs prices, while making it more energy efficient and environmental friendly. The company estimated LED bulbs shipment volume will rise in 2016.

(Translator: Emma Chang, Editor, LEDinside)