Pioneer TVs to return to Europe, but don't expect a new Kuro plasma

Pioneer, the manufacturer behind the now legendary Kuro plasma TV, will make a return to the European market for the first time since 2010, following a deal with UK retailer Dixons.

According to ERT online , the deal will see Dixons Retail managing the complete supply chain, from sourcing to selling, beginning in December in the Nordic territories.

“We are very excited to be working with Pioneer, a legendary brand in the world of technology, on its return to the European TV market," Sebastian James, chief executive of the Dixons Retail Group, said of the deal.

"Today’s partnership reflects our reputation for excellence which we have worked hard to build during the last 40 years we have been operating in Hong Kong. This exclusive partnership is fantastic news, allowing us to offer the newest and latest TV technologies to our customers".

Three Full HD 1080p models will form the initial line-up, with 40in, 46in and 55in screen sizes. Each will include 3D playback, Smart TV, integrated Wi-Fi and multiple HDMI and USB ports. Unfortunately for anyone hoping for a new Kuro plasma TV, Dixons confirmed that the range would comprise of LED TVs only.

Until Pioneer withdrew its plasma TVs from sale in 2010, when Panasonic hired many of the company's employees to develop its own plasma technology, the Kuro was widely regarded as the best you could get in terms of picture quality. Panasonic's top-end Zt65 , released earlier this year, is arguably the first plasma panel to challenge the Kuro's dominance.

Although no specific date was mentioned, there are plans to bring Pioneer TVs to the UK market in the future.