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March 20, 2006
Nikon Bullish on '07 Camera Shipments
Nikon's projections for 2007 include a 30% rise in digital SLR shipments , but sees a fight for the heavily-contested entry-level market.
Managing Director Makoto Kimura sees revisions neccessary in marketing and selling entry-level models under USD1000, but is betting on significant growth to help boost revenue. This same competitive market segment cost Konica-Minolta and Kyocera their place in the imaging industry.
Nikon has already made sizable increases in their imaging division, with a 28 percent boost in R&D to 13.2B Yen ending in March of 2005. Overall, camera R&D represented over 40% of the company's overall research expenses.
Kimura acknowledges that the lifecycle of a typical DSLR has dropped to about 1.5 years versus 3 for an equivalent film model, so turnover is expected to fuel part of the coming wave of growth. Nikon has already implemented many cost-savings in order to remain competitive, having consolidated manufacturing lines to two plants; one in Thailand for consumer models and the other in Japan for pro versions. In addition, camera models now share a wide common base of parts and Nikon has increased parts procurement to achieve further cost-savings.
Posted by covey22 at March 20, 2006 5:20 AM
Comments
Does this mean that there will be a replacement series coming up soon for the D50 and D70S?? The D50 was released a little over a year ago I believe.
How does one find out about upcoming product releases and changes in the Nikon line??
I am anxious about purchasing a D50 only to have a newer better and similarly priced camera come out on the market a few months later. I don't want to wait but I don't want to waste either :)
Posted by: kkeenan2 at April 26, 2006 12:29 PM
There could be a new series, but the comments from Nikon are more reflective of the strategy that they must undertake in order to maintain and potentially grow market share, rather than any real indications of the next product development. Digital SLRs will have begin the transition from a long-term luxury appliance (which they were in the beginning) to a short-term interchangable commodity.
Nikon and the other remaining photographic manufacturers are usually tight-lipped about new developments. All you can do is keep an eye on discussions at places like Nikonians for the latest buzz. Otherwise, you can expect new products to be unveiled just before traditional shows like PMA and Photokina.
We liken the decision to purchase a digital camera much like buying a personal computer. Eventually, you must do it and you have to balance your hesitation gains versus the potential loss (of photos not taken) while you decide. The D50 is an excellent entry point for novices and for those converting from compact cameras, and it will not be easily replaced soon. There are other gaps within the product line that need to be filled first, so buy with confidence.
Posted by: Armando@Nikonians at April 26, 2006 4:37 PM
