3D Systems Sells its On-Demand Manufacturing Business for $82M

3D Systems, one of the original 3D printing companies and still a leader in the industry, announced that private equity firm Trilantic North America has agreed to acquire 3D System’s On-Demand Manufacturing business. The $82 million deal is subject to certain closing conditions and adjustments. After closing, the on-demand manufacturing service will be renamed to QuickParts and lead by Mr. Ziad Abou who held the role of Senior Vice President and General Manager of 3D Systems’ On-Demand Manufacturing business. The move falls in line with earlier announcements from 3D Systems to move more towards a core business, focusing on developing capabilities for industrial-scale additive manufacturing.

Founded in 1986, 3D Systems is one of the original 3D printing companies with Chuck Hull, the former president and CTO, known for pioneering SLA technology. Today they have expanded greatly, offering plastic and metal 3D printers, 3D printers, a portfolio of end-to-end manufacturing software and, of course, their on-demand manufacturing services. They work in a variety of markets including aerospace, automotive, medical, dental and consumer goods.

Working on a part for a customer at 3D Systems’ On-Demand Manufacturing Service (photo credits: 3D Systems)

The move is perhaps unsurprising to many in the industry as recently, 3D Systems already announced plans to move towards a ‘core’ 3D systems business. For example, earlier this month they invested in a 50,000 square foot expansion of its presence in Littleton, Colorado to expand development for its healthcare and industrial application production capabilities. They plan to add expertise and advanced metal AMA technologies. This also complements other works being done at application and advanced manufacturing sites in South Carolina, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium.