Panasonic Australia have reported record "value" growth for their Lumix camera range during the past quarter with new GFK data revealing that they are now the #1 "value" vendor in the compact digital camera category. The Company is now on track to sell its one millionth Lumix camera in the Australian market.

Speaking at the Australian launch of their new Lumix compact and camcorder range Paul Reid, Director, Consumer Electronics Group, Panasonic Australia said that 2009 had Panasonic's its most successful year in the local digital camera.

He also announced thirteen new Lumix models and four new camcorders at a regional Lumix event held in Melbourne. The new Lumix range includes:

• The flagship LUMIX TZ series – the ultimate travel cameras

• The new, more rugged LUMIX FT2 for the active photographer

• The LUMIX FX68 with the latest lens technology

• The feature-rich LUMIX ZR3 featuring AVCHD Lite High Definition Video

• The stylish new LUMIX FP series

• The everyday, family-friendly FH series

• The entry-level F Series of point and shoot cameras

Reid said the results were particularly pleasing during a time when consumer demand in the category appeared to have stalled.

"Panasonic LUMIX value sales over the Christmas quarter were up 68 per cent compared to total compact value decline of around 14 per cent over the same period." Mr Reid said.

"Consumers are increasingly turning to Lumix to capture their precious memories and we expect this to continue through 2010. Our largest ever LUMIX range brings advanced, premium features to more accessible, everyday models – giving Australian consumers greater value, versatility and quality."