It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our CEO, Mr Michihiro Yamaki. Mr Yamaki, who founded the embryonic Sigma Corporation fifty years ago, lost his fight against cancer on 18th January 2012.

Mr Michihiro Yamaki guided the Sigma Corporation from its modest beginnings as the smallest of over fifty lens manufacturers in Japan to its eminent position today as a leading and well respected lens designer and manufacturer and an innovative and cutting edge maker of digital cameras.

All who knew Mr Yamaki admired his hard work and dedication to Sigma yet his total commitment was tempered by his consideration for his employees, associates and customers. His considerable contribution to the photographic world was recognised by many accolades throughout his life not least being the PMA Hall of Fame Award, the Golden Photokina Pin and the United Nations International Photographic Council Hall of Fame Award.

Mr Yamaki will be sadly missed but his energetic, capable and compassionate leadership style will be carried forward by his son, Mr Kazuto Yamaki as the Sigma Corporation, despite being highly influential, remains very much a family owned business.