Kodak Loses Digital Camera Lead
By WILLIAM M. BULKELEY
May 9, 2006 3:18 p.m.
FRAMINGHAM, Mass. – Eastman Kodak Corp. lost the market share lead in digital camera sales in the U.S., market research firm IDC reported.
Kodak had held the lead for the last five quarters, according to IDC's research. Canon Inc., the world-wide digital camera leader, captured the U.S. lead in the period. Sony Corp., despite flat shipments, climbed into No. 2 position.
IDC analyst Christopher Chute said the U.S. digital camera market grew only 3% during the quarter. Statistically the first quarter is the least significant for digital camera sales which peak in the Christmas season during the fourth quarter. IDC said many retailers had stocked up on cameras during the fourth quarter and still had ample supplies during the first quarter, resulting in relatively low orders.
IDC predicted the market will rebound during the second quarter "Dads and grads" period when many parents buy cameras for picture-taking at graduation or give them as father's and mother's day gifts. The traditional June bridal season and summer vacations also spur camera purchases.
