Can other Canon countries learn from the Australian market?
Mr Kobayashi: Yes. The Australian market is an advanced and mature market. Because of this our operations need to be highly visible with highly effective processes. We need to maximise efficiency and deliver optimum levels of service to our customers. The processes that we implement and refine in Australia can then be used in other markets. What do you consider to be characteristic of the Australian market? Mr Kobayashi:This market is still quite new for me but having said that, I already know that Australians are price conscious but willing to spend where they see value for money. Quality is very important to them. The Australian market has been shaped as a result of strong competition and price sensitivity. For example, over the past year digital compact cameras seem to be more price sensitive here than in other regions–in other countries the price decline is about 10 per cent but in Australia it’s 25 per cent. This means Canon needs to provide a strong and compelling reason for pur
