Sorry, I take issue with your flawed examples again. Leica runs that rebate
annually, and I wouldn't be surprised if that's when they sell the largest
number of cameras. There is _no_ reduction in list price. In fact, you would
be hard pressed to find a dealer selling new Leicas for less than list when the
rebate is over. They are not passing along manufacturing experience in the form
of discounts to their customers. They are just temporarily reducing the
overwhelming mark-up that they normally take in order to sell cameras.
Re your opinion that you have been slapped in the face: don't take it
personally. I'm sure that Oly values your custom and your loyalty, but rightly
find that loyalty doesn't pay the bills. Particularly during a time of economic
uncertainty in Japan/
______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re[3]: [OM] OLY PRICE INCREASES!
Author: olympus@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (Denton Taylor) at INTERNET
Date: 3/7/1998 5:56 PM
>> Let's get real here -- the OMs are boutique cameras. There is limited
demand and therefore limited production. If Oly reduced the price,
there would likely be little additional demand. Pros and amateurs are
looking for all the bells and whistles, more flashing LEDs/LCDs than a
pinball machine, multiaveraging autofocus, and low yield nuclear
devices. Cameras that go on vacation and take the pictures for you,
while you stay home>>
I don't disagree with you, especially in your use of the term 'boutique
cameras'. I have used the term 'cultist cameras' myself when referring to
the OM system.
Still, Leica and Contax do the same thing (produce exquisite, low-volume,
manual focus cameras) and seem to make money while doing it. In fact, they
have both been aggressively _reducing_ prices. The M6 has had a $500 rebate
for some time; the R8 has had at least one substantial price reduction, and
the G2 has also just had a $500 price reduction, along with a $50 rebate
for each lens.
The price reductions by these firms show they are serious about pleasing
their customers and making money at the same time. They are following
standard manufacturing protocol. As they learn to manufacture the product
efficiently, they pass all or a big part of the cost savings along to the
customer, in hope of attracting more customers, which will in turn result
in further efficiencies of scale.
Olympus is obviously not interested in increasing its customer base for OM
equipment. It's a tiny part of what it is doing; just a PITA, in fact. Viva
la difference!
I am seriously thinking of dumping all my Oly gear and moving to R8 or
Contax, after this slap in the face...
Regards,
Denton Taylor
.......................................................
photogallery at www.dentontaylor.com
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