Correction from Ricoh US: “Ricoh will continue mass production and sales but will be adding more direct-to-consumer approaches to its distribution in Japan”

I just received a clarification from Ricoh Americas on the press release issued in Japan a few days ago about a major camera business restructuring:

“The announcement created a bit of confusion and was specific to the market in Japan only. Ricoh will not be ceasing mass production and sales, but instead extending its distribution in Japan with more direct-to-consumer approaches.”

Below is the statement that is being issued now by Ricoh Imaging Americas on the topic:

Statement from Ricoh Imaging Americas Regarding Jan. 20, 2022 Announcement from Ricoh Imaging Co., Ltd.

STATEMENT FROM RICOH IMAGING AMERICAS:

The announcement made by Ricoh Imaging Co., Ltd. on January 20, 2022 regarding a revamped approach to Ricoh’s digital camera manufacturing and distribution was specific to the local market in Japan only. “Ricoh/Pentax will not change its distribution structure in North America, and the company has significant plans and goals for the North America market this year that will utilize mass production of its products,” said Kazumichi Eguchi, President, Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation. “Customers in North America can continue to purchase Ricoh and Pentax cameras through our authorized dealers and directly via our website: https://us.ricoh-imaging.com/.”