Canon Australia to close online store

Canon Australia is to close its online retail space The Canon Store at the end of the month, citing the company's desire to support local retailers.

The move effectively ends the company's more than decade-long direct sales model in Australia.

On a statement on the Canon.com.au website, the company said that the decision is based on a desire to 'drive competition in the local market.'

“The unprecedented challenges currently facing the Australian market has seen Canon Australia re-examine the best way to help consumers access our products, services and support,” writes Canon. “As a result, we are proudly streamlining our efforts in supporting local retailers to drive competition in the local market and bring you the best value product offers, promotions, services and experiences possible.”

The move comes following a busy quarter for the Japanese-company, with the recent announcement that Canon's Collective programme is to end in Australia and the launch of two new flagship cameras, the EOS R5 and R6.

According to Canon, customers can still order products from the online store from now until September 30th, after which the site will close. You can also read an FAQ about the changes here.