After the historical Japanese earthquake in March 2011, Apple’s Asian suppliers say that a lack of materials and available workers will lead to shortages in iPhone and iPad production over the next few months.
According to Foxconn, Apple’s iPhone and iPad 2 supplier, the goals of producing and shipping 7.5 million to 9 million iPads and 20 million to 22 million iPhones might not be reached due to material shortages at their production plants in Shenzehn and Chengdu, China.
Apple’s supplier for CDMA iPhones, Pegatron (a subsidiary company of Asus), is reportedly also suffering from a lack of available materials which will lead to production shortages. Foxconn, however, was the only company that would comment on these reports, saying it could shift staff to wherever needed to ensure the production of Apple’s products will continue to the best of their abilities.
Foxconn only emphasized that the company’s capacity is being arranged fully at the request of its clients and the company will do all it can to satisfy its clients’ needs; however, the company declined to comment whether the labor shortages will cause delays in shipments. Foxconn emphasized that it has experience arranging manpower to assist its clients in reaching their goals.
Reports say that Apple plans to sell around 2.5 million to 3 million iPads every month in the second quarter of 2011 as well as 20 million to 22 million iPhones over the same time span.
Article Via electronista
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