iPod demand outstripping supply in New Zealand

Apple's inability to match demand of its popular iPod portable music players with supply is once again frustrating its resellers in New Zealand, writes the New Zealand Reseller News. By last week local Apple distributor Renaissance had 8,000 outstanding iPod orders on its books, worth over $3.2 million. "The shortage has struck all iPod models, but is less severe on the Shuffle. The 20GB and Mini models are in highest demand." In the interim, Murray Wood, a local New Zealand reseller, says local shoppers are buying from Apple’s web stores overseas, which do not give prior warning of stock limitations. "The sites say delivery will be in one or two days, but after the customer has placed the order and paid they are told shipment will be delayed,” he says."We [resellers] are paying for our honesty as we do not take money from customers for placing back orders." Steve Ford, Renaissance Apple division general manager, confirmed the shortage is a result of demand outstripping supply.

Filed under: iPod, industry