Nikon 2010 Annual Report Download - page 7

5
Nikon Corporation Annual Report 2010
raised to the same level as technology devel-
opment processes. We also need to improve
the speed of those processes, and forge close
links between them.
This speed is an extremely important point in
terms of surviving amid fi erce competition in
a constantly changing market. If we do not
bring out products that meet market needs in
a timely manner, we lose more than just
opportunities for sales. We also run the risk
of excess inventory, and ultimately that this
would result in a deterioration in earnings.
Unfortunately, at the present time not every
one of our business processes is functioning
at an optimal level, and there is still ample
room for improvement.
Another important point is broadening the
reach of Nikon’s brand image. Even if the
products we offer are technologically out-
standing, we cannot hope for continued
business expansion without a solid brand
image that permeates the market. Currently,
Nikon’s brand image is identifi ed mainly with
“high quality,” “reliability” and “integrity,”
while user-friendliness lags. To bolster our
existing brand image, we of course want to
include “fun” and “spirit of innovation” as an
integral part of that image.
Which areas are you focusing on in
terms of new product and technology
development?
We aim to be the market leader in all our
business areas.
In the Precision Equipment Company, we are
making further advances in cutting-edge ArF
immersion scanners for double patterning.
For LCD scanners utilizing multi-lens projec-
tion optical systems, we are adapting equip-
ment for larger glass plates without affecting
the resolution.
The Imaging Company is focusing on the
development of the new generation of digital
cameras. This is not simply about making
digital SLR cameras smaller and lighter. It
includes offering image capture devices that
allow for new forms of photography.
In the Instruments Company, for the indus-
trial instruments fi eld we plan to develop
high-value-added products that integrate the
non-contact measurement systems of Metris
NV (currently Nikon Metrology NV, a Belgian
manufacturer of measuring equipment that
we made a wholly owned consolidated
Consolidated Financial Targets Years ended March 31
฀฀฀฀฀฀฀
฀฀
(Billions of yen)
Net Sales 785.5 880.0 1,100.0
Operating Income (Loss) (13.9) 52.0 120.0
Net Income (Loss) (12.6) 30.0 65.0
2010 2011
฀฀฀ 2010 US$1 = ¥93 1 euro = ¥131
2011 US$1 = ¥90 1 euro = ¥120
2013 US$1 = ¥90 1 euro = ¥110
(Announced on June 18, 2010)
2013
(Millions of yen) (%)
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
R&D Expenditures
Ratio of R&D Expenditures
to Net Sales
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
0
2
4
6
8
R&D Expenditures and Ratio of
R&D Expenditures to Net Sales
Years ended March 31