Practically everyone knows how hard it is to get a Wii console. As soon as shipments arrive at stores, the units literally vanish from store shelves in a matter of minutes. Nintendo has promised time and again that it’s working on the supply problem and it would seem that it’s turning the corner on making enough Wiis for everyone that wants to buy one.
Nintendo said, "For the first three months of this year we have been producing one million hardware units per month. We are increasing the manufacturing capacity and forecast to ship 14 million in this fiscal year to our distributors and retail customers globally."
That’s the good news, but that doesn’t necessarily mean there will be an overabundance of the machines. Nintendo suggests that you check with your local stores for incoming shipments. "We have put solid production plans in place to ensure a steady flow of product through 2007. We are constantly replenishing Wii supplies however with such high demand; stock is still flying off shelves so consumers should continue to be in touch with their local retailers to confirm when new stock is arriving."
Although Nintendo had high hopes for the Wii being a success, the scope of its mass appeal has surprised even them. The constant Wii shortages are good for Nintendo in that it proves that the company has a very hot item, but the downside is that it wasn’t prepared for the enormous demand. Now, it’s found itself in a battle to fill orders.
Yes, it’s a problem, but a problem that Sony or Microsoft would gladly love to have.
[via GamesIndustry]
