Independent lens maker Sigma has become the latest photography firm to announce price increases, mainly as a result of ‘currency fluctuations’.
The increases will take effect from 1 February and are likely to average close to 40%.
The extent of the price rises will vary from product to product but will reflect the ‘40%’ devaluation of the pound against the Japanese yen, according to a spokesman for Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd.
In a statement the firm said: ‘It’s a very long time since prices in the photo/imaging market increased. Cameras and lenses fell in price until they offered incredibly good value for money.
‘In times of recession it seems counter-intuitive for prices to rise but that’s exactly what is about to happen…’
Sigma added that, wherever possible, it will keep price rises to a minimum and that it may be possible to buy lenses from retailers at the original prices, while stocks last.
Earlier today Canon announced a second wave of price rises, following its price hike earlier this month.