Digital camera sales to peak in 2010

Market intelligence company IDC expects digital camera sales to reach 114 million units in 2007, an increase of 8%, but to peak in 2010 as the market reaches saturation point.

Traditional film cameras are rapidly being replaced by digital cameras, and camera manufacturers are already promoting products for customers who want to upgrade their electronic cameras.

IDC warns that even emerging markets will saturate soon and the number of units shipped will decline after 2010, with 2 percent negative growth in 2011.

The exception will be shipments of digital SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras, which are expected to increase 9 percent to 8.5 million units in 2011.

IDC advises camera manufacturers to adapt marketing and distribution for customers in China, Russia and Latin America, in order to capitalise on potential new markets.

According to IDC, consumers will continue to favour digital cameras over camera phones for taking high quality still images.