EL SEGUNDO, CA — Vizio Inc. in the fourth quarter surpassed Sony to become the US’s second-largest flat-panel television brand, according to iSuppli Corp.

Vizio accounted for 14.3% of flat panel TV (LCD and plasma) unit shipments in the US in the fourth quarter, up 3.11 points from the third quarter. Sony and Samsung Electronics declined 0.42 points and 0.62 points, respectively, during the same period. Sony’s share declined to 13.5% in the fourth quarter. Samsung was number one, with a 20.2% share.

No. 4 Panasonic saw shipments rising 3.12 points to a 10.7% share. LG was fifth at 10.6%.

“Brands are finding it hard to survive in the current economic climate amid tough price competition,” iSuppli said, noting a shakeout among suppliers. “Olevia LCD-TVs are no longer available since the company filed for bankruptcy in 2008. Pioneer has announced its exit from the television market. During 2009, a few value brands will disappear from the market. The brands that survive will be the ones that either own or have very close ties with the LCD and plasma panel makers, allowing them to keep their costs."