OM System re-enters India, eyes top 5 market spot in next 5 years

OM System, formerly Olympus Cameras, has re-entered India with its cameras and lenses portfolio, targeting leadership in outdoor photography and aiming to rank among top 5 markets

OM System (formerly Olympus) is re-entering the Indian market with a range of products, including cameras and lenses. While the company has quietly launched a few products over the past few months, Thursday marked its formal return to India.

 

“India is a vibrant and fast-growing market for imaging, with an incredible community of outdoor and wildlife creators who inspire us. The rebranding from Olympus to OM System has allowed us to honour our 85-year-old heritage while shaping a more agile and innovative identity that resonates strongly with users worldwide. Building on this global momentum, our plans for India are to establish the country as a strategic growth hub by introducing advanced products, strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem, and nurturing a strong creator community that reflects our brand’s vision of empowering explorers and storytellers,” said Shigemi Sugimoto, chief executive officer, OM Digital Solutions Corp, to Business Standard.

 

The company exited India in 2020, while Olympus Corp transferred its imaging division to Japan Industrial Partners, Inc in 2021.

 

“At this stage, our primary focus is cameras and lenses. Other consumer products, like binoculars and audio recording devices, are also in the portfolio, but cameras and lenses remain the core for OM System. Under this brand, we plan to explore new business opportunities, including technologies and products, and will launch them in India as they become available,” said Vivek Handoo, vice-president — head of Asia Pacific/managing director, OM System. 

 

Currently, the company has a minimal presence in India but expects the market to grow substantially, aiming to be among its top four or five global markets within five years.

 

Although OM System does not yet have a subsidiary in India, it operates through a distribution network and expects to open a local subsidiary within 12–18 months.

 

Handoo valued the Indian imaging market at $750 million and described it as highly decentralised. “We have expertise in outdoor photography and aim to lead this segment in India. We expect significant double-digit growth year-on-year over the next five to 10 years,” he added.

 

Globally, the company’s focus remains on becoming a leader in outdoor photography.