An update:
Dear Polaroid User
Many thanks for returning the questionnaire in which we canvassed views and opinions on the Polaroid situation. All the questionnaires were read and analysed and it was of great interest to us to be able to confirm the high regard in which the Polaroid brand is held and also how passionate users feel about its possible demise.
HARMAN has issued the following statement.
"HARMAN technology Limited, through its monochrome brand ILFORD PHOTO, and Polaroid Worldwide have been in discussions about the possibility of ILFORD taking on production of Polaroid?s black and white professional instant sheet film. Despite the best efforts of both parties involved they have determined that there is not a commercially viable way forward.
HARMAN?s Chairman, Howard Hopwood said: ?The processes involved in the manufacture and assembly of professional instant sheet film products are very demanding and it would require substantial investment to re-establish them at HARMAN technology?s site in Cheshire, England. When compared with current and projected sales for the products, it was clear that such an investment could not be justified?
Howard Hopwood continues: ?While we had hoped to work together on continuing the production of instant sheet film, it is cost prohibitive to meet the declining demand. As a company we are saddened that such an inspirational form of expression will disappear, but we will always remain staunchly committed to the long-term future of monochrome photography in all its facets and we will continue to do everything we can to support it.?
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So, I guess that's pretty final then. Sounds about what we had expected, and I'm betting if Harman/Ilford can't do it no one can.
-Jason