Remington has had some recent problems—see the R51 for example. They had to recall the entire first run and they seem to be having trouble with the second run. Remington’s problems may not have much to do with a reduced demand for firearms but rather Remington’s recent history of putting out pistols/rifles that seem to have been less than satisfactory.
I don’t think the problem they have/had with the older 700’s as far as firing when releasing the safety is helping the image much, either. I have one of those 700’s but never had any problem with it, but...