In order for its LCD TV supply chain to respond better to a quick-changing fast-growing market, ViewSonic indicated it has gone through a reorganization whereby its Taiwan-based purchasing department for LCD TV panels has been incorporated into its North America procurement headquarters, with Steve Woo, vice president of sales operations Americas of ViewSonic being named head of the business, according to the company.

ViewSonic's purchasing department for LCD TV panels used to belong to the company's Global Products Group, which was responsible for products including LCD and CRT monitors, LCD TVs, plasmas, projectors and accessories. Matthew Milne, president of ViewSonic Americas, pointed out that with LCD TV panel supply running tight in the market and the LCD TV market growing rapidly, the unit would be better off being close to where ViewSonic focuses its LCD TV sales, which is mostly in the North American market.

According to market sources, ViewSonic has shipped about 400,000-500,000 LCD TVs this year,with TPV Technology being its main manufacturing partner. AU Optronics (AUO), Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO), and Chunghwa Picture Tubes (CPT) all provide LCD TV panels for ViewSonic, the sources noted. The sources added that if the company successfully expands its LCD TV business in North America, Taiwan-based LCD panel and TV makers are set to benefit, and that ViewSonic will also target its LCD TV sales in Taiwan and Australia.

ViewSonic declined to release figures regarding its LCD TV shipments for this year or any forecast for 2008.

In related news, ViewSonic plans to launch 47-and 52-inch LCD TV models, according to the sources.