Earlier we reported that there were strong rumors (Yamaha did not want to confirm or deny) that Yamaha would stop their CD-R production, but now there is a press release confirming the rumors. The company will cease sales of CD-R/RWs drives for personal computers and will withdraw completely from the business by the end of March 2003.
However, amidst high competition and rapidly falling sales prices, the middle speed recorder market, which Yamaha had been targeting, has shrunk dramatically. Additionally, the market has seen DVD-compatible devices and personal computers with installed CD-R/RW drives become the norm. |
In light of this situation the Company had been working to leverage high sound quality technology and installation of direct print-in drive technology to maintain competitiveness. Yet under the current market conditions the Company deemed that it would be imprudent to continue operations and to invest further.
Strong rumors are also that Yamaha will cut also in their jobs in Europe, according to the article: minimal adjustments will be made to the number of employees overseas (outside Japan).
All we can say is: Yamaha you will be missed and good luck with your other business!
Source: JBN.com
