Canon losing 30% sales to grey market

[swifty]

It seems Canon Australia (and most likely Nikon Australia + all the other official distributors) who are the culprits.
If their mark-up is so high, it's no wonder local B&M stores can't compete, afterall you do have to make a profit, otherwise why do the trade at all.
I have noticed a trend lately though, at least with some Nikon gear, local prices were only about 5-10% higher so when you factor in things like GST, shipping etc. it's quite fair. If the difference is small I always still prefer a B&M store. I now have a good relationship with my local dealer and am happy with the face-to-face service. I always try to drive a bargain but it's pretty clear at what point they just can't compete.

[mikew09]

It seems Canon Australia (and most likely Nikon Australia + all the other official distributors) who are the culprits.
If their mark-up is so high, it's no wonder local B&M stores can't compete, afterall you do have to make a profit, otherwise why do the trade at all.
I have noticed a trend lately though, at least with some Nikon gear, local prices were only about 5-10% higher so when you factor in things like GST, shipping etc. it's quite fair. If the difference is small I always still prefer a B&M store. I now have a good relationship with my local dealer and am happy with the face-to-face service. I always try to drive a bargain but it's pretty clear at what point they just can't compete.

Agree 100%. Ovwer time I have build a elationship with one store, one fella ducks for cover when I come in but my usual sales girl understands my wants price wise. Hence, to date, I have bought all my items bar one from my reguarlar store as they have discounted close to grey market. I am fore supporting Australian business and there is some benefits with building a relationship - as example - when I went in with a question about my warranty, I was offered an upgrade on the 12 month old 50D purchase to the new 5 yr warranty.

Just not sure if the current economics will allow locals to be as competitive as I have found them in the past.