Well, that didn’t take long.

The European launch of the Wii has been hit with reports of shortages just days before the machine’s release and the first numbers pouring out prove the demand is certainly there. Nintendo UK (numbers for the rest of Europe are MIA) says they sold 50,000 units in the first 12 hours — roughly one Wii per second.

“We are delighted with the amazing response to Wii and that people of all ages and gaming experience are embracing the way that we are turning the industry on its head. With so many units sold it is great to see that people will be enjoying Wii with their families this Christmas. We are doing everything we can do to meet demand throughout Christmas and the New Year period,” said Nintendo UK General Manager David Yarnton in the announcement release.
Source: gametab.com