If you are in the UK, you’ve probably heard of Cello TV. It is one of the few TV models that bears the “Made in the UK” mark, making it extremely popular with the “buy local” movement.
The brand is also famous for its specialized TV models, such as solar TVs and “traveler” TVs designed for motorhomes and boats. But who makes Cello TVs?
Below is everything you need to know about Cello TVs’ production process, including the company that makes them, where they are manufactured, the brand’s history, and other interesting facts.
Who makes Cello TVs?
Cello TVs are made in-house by Cello Electronics, a UK-based consumer electronics company.
The company, founded in 2001, began manufacturing LCD TVs exclusively in 2005. Then, in 2006, it started investing in after-sales services, including customer care and technical support for its TV models.
Over the years, Cello Electronics has produced various Cello TV models. For example, the company launched an LCD TV with a built-in DVD player (the first of its kind in the UK) in 2007, available in 15- and 19-inch models.
In 2008, Cello Electronics expanded its DVD-integrated TV line with 22-inch, 26-inch, and 32-inch models.
In 2009, Cello Electronics launched an LCD TV with a built-in iPod docking station. The same year, the company integrated personal video recorders that use SD cards into their 22”, 26”, and 32” LCD TV models.
Cello was also one of the pioneers of smart TVs, launching a web-ready TV in 2010 that offered iViewer, allowing users to stream from BBC iPlayer, YouTube, CNN, and other web sources.
In 2011, the company entered the 3D market with the launch of a 3D TV model that required 3D glasses to watch. The company later announced plans to expand its 3D product line with a 3D glasses-free TV model, but it is unclear if it ever became commercially available.
In another of the world’s firsts, Cello TV introduced a TV with an integrated solar power system in 2016. Then, in 2017, the company launched another TV model, this time with an in-built, rechargeable battery.
Besides these TVs, Cello Electronics has also launched several other models, including smart TVs running on Android TV or WebOS, as well as camping & Caravan TVs.
Many of its TV models, including the non-smart TVs with built-in DVD players, are still available for sale.
Where are Cello TVs made?
Cello Electronics states on its website that its TVs are manufactured in the UK. The company operates a manufacturing plant in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, United Kingdom, which has earned the moniker “Britain’s only LED TV manufacturing facility.”
The plant, a 50,000-square-foot facility, hosts all of Cell’s activities, including manufacturing, warehousing, customer service, and management.
One thing to note, though, is that Cello TVs are not technically manufactured in the UK; they are only assembled there.
All of the components used to make Cello TV are sourced overseas. The company has not disclosed the country/countries of origin for these components, but they are most likely purchased from original equipment manufacturers in South Korea, Japan, or China.
Cello, however, does assemble each of its TVs at its UK manufacturing plant, with quality control conducted on site.
Are Cello TVs any good?
Cello TVs are generally considered good. The brand offers various TV models, including 1080p Full HD and 4K UHD QLED displays, which users have commended for their good picture quality.
Some Cello TVs, such as those with Perfect Pitch Sound technology, have also been praised as decent or good. However, users have criticized some models, especially the older ones, for having poor sound quality.
Another positive aspect of the Cello TVs is that the brand has been a pioneer in many TV technologies, including built-in DVD players, 3D TVs, solar-powered TVs, smart TVs, and battery-operated TVs.
Cello also boasts a unique selling point: it’s the only TV made in the UK. And though its TV components are manufactured overseas, the company does assemble them in the UK and offers comprehensive after-sales service, including technical support.
With Cello TV, you won’t find premium-quality models. However, the company’s TVs are affordable and offer some decent features, making them worth it.
Cello TV is also a good option if you are looking to purchase locally made products to support local businesses.