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The Happy Catastrophe Of 3D Printing
The Happy Catastrophe Of 3D Printing
December 7, 2012 about: DDD, includes: SSYS
No technology threatens to upset the current model of production more than that of 3D printing. The company that emerges as the leader in this field will most likely not be the last, but it will blaze the path for others to follow and build businesses that will render so much of our current infrastructure obsolete.
3D Systems (DDD) IPO’d on the New York Stock Exchange in May, 2011 and immediately began implementing an aggressive expansion strategy by first acquiring Alibre Inc, a CAD software developer, for an undisclosed amount. This was followed by more acquisitions during the year, the most notable of which was Huntsman’s stereo lithography line, its own competitor that manufactures 3D printers and print materials for $41 million. The company started 2012 with a bang by acquiring more competitors — Z Corp and Vidar Systems for $135.5 million in January.
So far, DDD has made 16 acquisitions since its listing 18 months ago while its stock has gone up by 145.6%. The total number of acquisitions in the company’s life is 31. To finance further expansion, DDD is planning a $100 million share sale. Within a short time, DDD has emerged as the industry leader through its takeovers in its attempt to consolidate the 3D printing industry.
In the last week of November, the DDD launched the ProJet 3500 HDMax and ProJet 3500 CPX Max professional printers, its latest to date. This caused its shares to surge by 12% in a single day. Meanwhile, the company has also developed its latest customized ’3D printed hand brace devices’ for use in musculoskeletal medicine and are expected to be launched in the second half of 2013. The device aims to significantly improve the experience of orthopedic patients or those suffering from other chronic conditions. It has also entered into a long term agreement with the Smithsonian Institute to provide 3D … Finish reading>
