3D Systems, a company already known for numerous acquisitions, has continued its latest growth spurt with the purchase of sister companies American Precision Prototyping (APP) and American Precision Machining (APM) and the lease of a 200,00 square foot manufacturing facility in South Carolina. While the acquisitions will be used to expand 3DS’ aerospace manufacturing capabilities and Quickparts 3D printing and prototyping network, the new facility will enable the company to meet growing demand for their range of 3D printers and materials.
APP and APM, based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, have a combined 24 years of experience in prototyping and manufacturing, with an important place in the aerospace industry. As Vice President and General Manager at Quickparts for 3DS, Ziad Abou, explains, the purchase will expand the company’s Quickparts service network even further, “APP and APM bring a wealth of experience and bench strength in both advanced manufacturing and the aerospace industry that is highly complementary to our offerings. This acquisition further enhances our North American capabilities and expertise.”
Though APP and APM will extend 3DS reach in aerospace and in the local region, APP and APM see this as beneficial to them, as well, with the President of APP, Jason Dickman, saying, “3D Systems is, bar none, the recognized leader in advanced manufacturing with an exceptional track record in providing the highest quality parts services globally. We have been a long-standing customer of 3DS’ SLA and SLS printers, materials and software, and we couldn’t be more excited to join the team as it positions us to provide unparalleled parts services to our customers far into the future.”
At the same time as it strengthens its Quickparts service, 3D Systems is growing its capacity for producing their own 3D printers and materials. The new manufacturing and distribution facility, based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is expected to be fully operational by the beginning of 2015. President and CEO of 3DS, Avi Reichental, said of the new facility, “Our continued Rock Hill expansion underscores our commitment to localized manufacturing, demonstrating through our actions that what is designed locally can be built locally. This investment is in direct response to the growing demand for our professional printers.”
While it will allow 3DS to produce and distribute more goods, it is also expected, by the company, to generate “hundreds of new jobs over time”. And, by freeing up space in the company’s existing Rock Hill headquarters, 3D Systems will be able to broaden its R&D and engineering operations at HQ. Altogether, the move firmly routes the company in Rock Hill, where 3DS also has an interactive 3D innovation and learning center, dedicated to showcasing the company’s products and the role of advanced manufacturing in various fields.
If you’re interested in working for the company, as it opens up its new facility, head over to the company’s careers page.
