Canon New Zealand 20 years on

MEDIA RELEASE
5tttth November 2009

Canon New Zealand 20 years on

Canon is celebrating its 20th anniversary after the company opened the doors of its first New Zealand office in 1989.

Including contracted services the company currently employs over 300 staff across the country, with the head office being an iconic building on Auckland’s North Shore.

Mike Johnston, Country Manager, Canon New Zealand says that one of the most exciting aspects of the 20 years has been the incredible growth in the uptake by New Zealanders of Canon product and technology at both a consumer and business to business level.

“Our cameras have always been popular with Kiwis and that is evidenced by the fact that we are currently number one in digital compact and digital SLR. On the business solutions side of the company we have moved from simply supplying photocopiers and printers to offering integrated business solutions that have helped many NZ companies, government & tertiary organisations become more efficient and productive.

“Our philosophy is that of Kyosei which means ‘Living and working together for the common good’ and we are proud not only of our achievements as a business but also our commitment to the community. This is reflected in our support for many national charities and sponsorships including the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation, the 2003 Lions Tour and the Qantas Media Awards,” says Johnston.

Mike says the company’s success in New Zealand has not just been based around the quality of its products and offering.

“Our success can also be attributed to the people who make it a reality and the Kiwi attitude to embrace new technology.

“We have fantastic people working at Canon New Zealand and their talent and commitment has been crucial to the on-going success of the company.” Lee Fairbairn, now the Assistant General Manager – Services and Support at Canon New Zealand recalls the day exactly 20 years ago when he started working at Canon fixing typewriters and calculators in the workshop at the age of 18.

“Since then I have changed roles every five years or so, ranging from fixing copiers to training technicians. Canon is a strong values based company and has enabled me to carve a career with a company I am very proud to be associated with.” says Fairbairn.

Canon staff marked the occasion with a day at the races entertaining many who have been integral to the company. Staff had the opportunity to share stories of their own experiences and reflect on major achievements over the years with customers, suppliers and media.

ENDS

© Scoop Media