The current series of the X Factor, one of ITV’s most commercially successful and lucrative shows, has been hit by criticism of the quality of the acts and has lost over 2 million viewers. Despite positive feedback on the new judges panel (and old favourite Louis Walsh) there seems to be something missing…. Simon Cowell? Talent?

It seems that the X Factor is entering the latter stages of the Product Life Cycle. Are we becoming bored with reality TV shows? What steps could the producers of the show take to revitalise it and woo viewers back to ITV on a Saturday night? Lots of material for business students of all ages here on demographics, product life cycle and extension strategies, product development and more.