Something else might delay Canon and Nikon’s aggressive product launch plans in 2021 and it is a familiar phenomenon present throughout 2020.
That’s right, in addition to the components factory fire that has strangled supply lines for many of Japan’s camera manufacturers, the newly imposed COVID-19 lockdown measures in Japan might also delay Canon and Nikon’s plans for their product lines in 2021, FStoppers reports.
A statement from Nikon in Japanese acknowledged the new restrictions and their impact on its workforces as well as expressed condolences to those lost during the pandemic:
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to the grieving families of those that have died from the new coronavirus infection. We also pray for a quick recovery for people who are affected and in difficult situations.
In response to the announcement of the state of emergency, the Nikon Group will continue manufacturing until February 7 in order to strengthen preventative measures under our policy of ‘continuing business activities while preventing the spread of infection.’ We will implement measures such as reducing the number of employees to 30% or less, excluding workplaces that require employees to come to work, and eliminating the maximum number of days for working from home.”
As for the new models on the slate for 2021, FStoppers points to the Z 6II and Z 7II as being two that could be in relatively scarce supply. Canon watchers are similarly indicating that, given the current situation in Japan, that company’s plans for 2021 might not be viable at the moment.
Nikon’s specifically has done a great job of staying in the headlines during this short year. The shift of the company’s manufacturing operations to Thailand, its aggressive plans, and questions about its future have made sure Nikon is on our minds in 2021. It’ll be interesting to see what twists and turns this tale takes over the year.
Do you think 2021 will experience many of the delays and restrictions that were imposed around the world during 2020 because of COVID-19? Let us know your thoughts on this article in the comments below.
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