Blue Peter - End of its Product Life Cycle?

For 50 years, Blue Peter has been the cornerstone of children’s tv programming on BBC1. However, recent viewing figures (a proxy for demand) suggest that the programme is firmly in the decline stage of its product life cycle…

Much press coverage in recent days of the rapid decline in Blue Peter viewing figures. The Times reports that Blue Peter viewers have dropped to an average of 100,000 in recent weeks, down 50% on 2007 and less than a third of the average back in 2003. Programmes such as Newsround have also suffered substantial falls in viewership.

Peter Purves, who presented the show when it was most popular during 1960s and 1970s, blamed the decline on thoughtless scheduling (a recent change brought the show forward 20 minutes to accommodate The Weakest Link) and increased competition. The Internet (Club Penguin et al) + the widespread availability of digital channels showing High School Musical, cartoons, WWF and sports must also be competing for the attractions of traditional Blue Peter viewers.

A great example to use when explaining the decline phase of the product life cycle.