Fotografie: Leica erstmals seit Jahren mit Umsatzrückgang

Leica, a renowned camera manufacturer, reported a decline in revenue for the first time in several years due to challenges in the market environment. In the fiscal year that ended in March, revenues decreased by 3.8% compared to the previous year, amounting to 573 million euros, as the company reported from its headquarters in Wetzlar.

Despite the revenue decline, Leica Camera Group still posted a black number. Factors contributing to the decline included geopolitical uncertainties, unfavorable exchange rate effects, and stricter customs regulations for the development of their products. Nonetheless, the company described the results as "robust."

Leica's CEO, Andreas Voll, did not provide a specific outlook for the current fiscal year but emphasized the company's focus on innovative products in the premium segment, global distribution network, and new target groups. These include attracting more women, younger people, and new creative communities. The company also acknowledged the impact of reduced consumer spending in the important US market.

The majority of Leica's revenue comes from the photography business, with the US market being the most significant single market. However, last year's global market for camera equipment grew slightly, but customers frequently opted for cheaper models, resulting in a decline in the worldwide sales volume. Leica experienced a decline in photography sales, while the mobile business expanded significantly, and the sport optics segment remained stable.

Additional profitable sectors included the business with watches and accessories, home cinema projectors, and eyeglass lenses.

Looking ahead, Leica plans to attract customers with product innovations. In October, the company launched the first M camera with an integrated electronic viewfinder, named the M EV1; "M" stands for "Messsucher" (German for "measuring sight"). Additionally, Leica introduced the compact lens Leica Noctilux M-35, the mirrorless system camera SL3 Reporter, and the portable home cinema beamer Cine Compact 1.

The launch of the revised Leica Leitzphone in February at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona was described by Voll as "very successful," although the company did not disclose sales figures. Leica collaborated with the Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi on this smartphone. The company expanded its global store network, with around 120 stores worldwide, and online sales contributed an additional five percent to the group's total revenue.