Apple Computer Inc said it has received more than 150,000 advance orders for the new iMac computer since it began taking them on August 3. The solid response to the machine, which has a translucent all-in-one design, could mean a resurgence in the consumer market for the company, which has seen its market share erode from roughly 10% early this decade to just over 3% now. The iMac is scheduled to ship to retail outlets this Saturday and Apple says it will begin taking internet orders for the product beginning October 1 on The Apple Store web site. Meanwhile, Apple’s Japanese unit announced it will ship computers produced at a plant in Singapore directly to sales outlets in Japan on a daily basis beginning later this month, according to Japanese news reports. The new system is being implemented to reduce inventory and lower overhead. Currently, Apple imports PCs every few weeks and stores them at its own warehouse before shipping them to sales outlets. The iMac, due to debut in Japan in late August, will be the first product to be directly delivered. Apple Japan’s moves come as part of an overall effort to cut costs through a more direct and just-in-time sales model. Last week, Apple announced an expansion of its build-to-order program to include regional resellers (CI No 3,468). Apple shares hit their 52-week high to $39 at close of market, up 3%
