NCL President Satoru Iwata has confirmed in the latest investor Q&A that the reported West Coast port shutdown has affected their shipments of amiibos in the US.
Iwata confirms in investor Q&A session that the west coast port strike has had an impact on N3DS/Amiibo shipments. pic.twitter.com/oGpNxt1yZH
— Kyle McLain (@FarmboyinJapan) February 19, 2015
Iwata was responding to recent news that the Longshore Workers union has literally shut down the ports in that area of the US, while in the middle of negotiations with the Pacific Maritime Association. This port shutdown has serious repercussions outside gaming, as food deliveries are slowly rotting and even companies like Toyota and Subaru announced they would have to adjust their operations.
For Nintendo and amiibo fans, of course, this has led to unexpected artificial shortages, that scalpers are taking advantage of by gobbling up stock and reselling for unfair prices.
Iwata also says that the strike hasn't had a big impact on software. "Games are light and can be flown to America." pic.twitter.com/hYWPGiwoNo
— Kyle McLain (@FarmboyinJapan) February 19, 2015
Iwata has also clarified that retail games were not adversely affected by the shutdown because these products are lighter and can be delivered via plane.
This doesn’t explain what happened to recent amiibo shortages for Australia and New Zealand, but it seems Nintendo Australia has compensated in their own way, as they have restocked their retailers with amiibos from Japan. These amiibos are already in stores, so if you happen to live in the area, you can check a retailer close to you now.
Card based amiibos, which hopefully can also be delivered via plane. They are less likely to accrue collectible value than toys, and will undoubtedly be cheaper.
Are you an amiibo collector? How have supplies been in your area? Share your experiences with us in the comments below.
