Business

3D Systems Acquires Rapidform

In further news from 3D Systems Corporation, the 3D printing giant has just announced that it has acquired Rapidform, a leading global provider of 3D scan-to-CAD and inspection software tools. The deal is a big one — literally and figuratively speaking — costing 3D Systems $35 million in cash, although it is still subject to final closing adjustments.

Rapidform, , located in Seoul, South Korea, develops and brings to market reverse engineering and inspection software that empowers product developers to deliver improved product quality in reduced time frames. By combining scan data processing, mesh optimisation, auto surfacing and CAD modelling in a single, integrated tool, Rapidform has unlocked the power of 3D digitisation for engineers and manufacturing professionals worldwide.

“This is a game-changer for our customers and shareholders, and is well-aligned with our strategic plan,” commented Abe Reichental, President and CEO of 3D Systems. “We are thrilled to welcome Calvin Hur and his team to our company and we expect that the integration of the Rapidform proprietary products with 3D Systems’ extensive portfolio will result in accelerated growth within the rapidly expanding 3D content-to-print space.”

With the addition of Rapidform, 3D Systems has secured a cornerstone of its fifth growth initiative: to create a seamless, digital scan, design and print platform for the benefit of its customers. This important growth initiative is consistent with the company’s overall drive to democratise and deliver integrated 3D content-to-print solutions. Rapidform broadens 3D Systems’ range of capabilities with complementary products and technology, and extends its coverage and breadth globally with a significant foothold in South Korea and Japan.

3D Systems expects Rapidform to contribute $15 million of revenue and deliver between $0.06 and $0.09 in earnings per share to its 2013 non-GAAP results.

This is big news, what do you make of the continued acquisition drive, which seems to be gathering pace once again?