rscheffler wrote:
Well, they continue to manufacture high end gear such as the 1D series and the super-tele lenses. Obviously they want buyers for these products. While indications are many (maybe even most) of these buyers are well heeled amateurs, there are some pro segments that still benefit from such equipment, where a 5DIII or 6D won't cut it. Unfortunately, in certain photo markets the cost of the most suitable gear is increasing, as a percentage, well beyond the (percentage increase in) rates photographers are paid. If fewer in Canon's target market are able to outright buy the high end gear, then solutions facilitated by Canon might be able to maintain or increase sales numbers. Otherwise, the gear is only bound to become even more expensive to compensate for lower production volume. I think they'd rather see someone opt for a 1DX and 200-400 than a 7D and 100-400 or 300/2.8. ...Show more →
That is my point.....I believe that all of their current supertelephoto lenses are already priced for very low volume sales @ very high per unit profit, and that is wherte they probably wanna be. Therefore, they do not need to intervene with rebates, special offers and some such in order to increase those sales. As long as that lens line is selling in projected (low) numbers, for predetermined fixed price, and the line garners projected profits, they will just let it run as is.
I completely agree about prices already reflecting anticipated low sales volumes. From my limited exposure to venues where these lenses are popular, the Mark II versions are a very low proportion of the total Canon equipment base. But from the various corporate meetings I've covered, I can't recall any manager saying they're happy with the status quo or with lower sales. There is always a desire for more. And there are potential buyers who want or need the equipment, yet are 'on the bubble,' potentially squeezed out by the higher pricing, who could realize higher sales numbers for Canon. Why wouldn't Canon want those potential buyers to get what they want?
My point about Canon having to "find some creative options to help photographers" was not directed towards discounts or rebates. There are other solutions.
