Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of 3D Technology
The 3D technology market is experiencing an unprecedented boom in competition, driven by the speed of technological development, the changing regulatory framework and the increasing demand for a more immersive experience. The key players, including the system suppliers, the IT system integrators and the hardware suppliers, are competing to lead the market by deploying advanced capabilities such as artificial intelligence-based analytics, automation and IoT integration. The system suppliers are focusing on the performance and the customization of their products, while the IT system integrators are concentrating on interoperability and the experience of their end users. The new players, mainly the artificial intelligence-based start-ups, are introducing disruptive solutions, especially in the health and manufacturing sectors. Green initiatives, in the context of the growing focus on sustainable development, are also influencing the strategies of the key players. The geographical growth opportunities are mainly in Asia-Pacific and North America, where strategic deployments will transform the market by 2024–25, enabling the agile players to take advantage of this shift.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions encompassing hardware, software, and services for 3D technology.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Stratasys Ltd. |
Industry-leading additive manufacturing solutions |
3D printing and additive manufacturing |
Global |
| 3D Systems, Inc. |
Pioneering 3D printing technologies |
3D printing and digital manufacturing |
Global |
| HP Development Company, L.P. |
Innovative multi-jet fusion technology |
3D printing and production solutions |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on niche applications and advanced technologies within the 3D space.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Voxel8, Inc. |
Unique multi-material 3D printing |
3D printing with electronics integration |
North America |
| Faro Technologies, Inc. |
Precision measurement and imaging solutions |
3D measurement and imaging |
Global |
| ExOne |
Expertise in binder jetting technology |
Industrial 3D printing |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors supply essential equipment and infrastructure to support 3D technology applications.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| 3DGence |
Versatile 3D printing solutions for professionals |
3D printers and materials |
Europe |
| Sony Corporation |
Innovative imaging and display technologies |
3D imaging and visualization |
Global |
| Panasonic Corporation |
Advanced manufacturing technologies |
3D printing and manufacturing solutions |
Global |
| Hexagon AB |
Comprehensive metrology and manufacturing solutions |
3D measurement and inspection |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- The Formlabs (USA) is a specialist in desktop 3D printing, especially in the area of resin-based technology. It has recently been awarded several contracts by educational establishments for the establishment of prototyping laboratories, and it is now challenging the established players, such as Stratasys, by offering cheap and easy-to-use systems.
- Sculpteo (France): Offers online 3D printing services and specializes in on-demand manufacturing, recently partnered with automotive companies for rapid prototyping, complementing traditional manufacturers by providing agile production capabilities.
- Raise3D (China): Known for its high-performance 3D printers aimed at industrial applications, recently implemented solutions in aerospace and medical sectors, competing with larger firms by focusing on customizable and scalable printing solutions.
- 3D Hubs (Netherlands): Provides a platform for on-demand manufacturing and 3D printing services, recently expanded its network of suppliers across Europe, challenging established vendors by democratizing access to 3D printing technologies.
- Xometry (USA): Offers a marketplace for custom manufacturing including 3D printing, recently secured contracts with major tech firms for rapid prototyping, complementing traditional manufacturing by integrating AI-driven solutions for efficiency.
Regional Trends: In 2023, there is a notable increase in the use of 3D printing in Europe and North America, resulting from improvements in materials and software. The automotive, medical and aeronautical industries use 3D printing more and more in prototyping and production. Also, the trend towards the environment is increasing, with companies focusing on sustainable materials and methods. Also, specialization in niche applications such as dental and aeronautical parts is becoming more pronounced, giving emerging companies a chance to compete against established suppliers.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- HP and Autodesk have joined in a partnership to combine Autodesk's design tools with HP's 3D printing technology, in order to facilitate the work of the designer and the manufacturer and thus strengthen their position in the additive manufacturing industry.
- Stratasys acquired the 3D printing startup Xaar 3D to expand its portfolio of polymer-based additive manufacturing solutions, which is expected to strengthen its market share against competitors like 3D Systems and EOS.
- Materialise and Siemens have agreed to develop advanced software for the industrial 3D printing of products. The aim is to improve efficiency and reduce costs in the production process. That positions both companies well in the growing industrial 3D printing market.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Biometric Self-Boarding |
Thales, Gemalto |
Thales has implemented biometric self-boarding solutions in major airports, enhancing passenger flow and reducing wait times. Gemalto's technology is noted for its high accuracy and integration with existing security systems. |
| AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
Siemens, IBM |
Siemens leverages AI for predictive maintenance in 3D printing operations, improving efficiency. IBM's Watson has been adopted by several manufacturers for real-time data analysis, optimizing production schedules. |
| Border Control |
NEC, SITA |
NEC's biometric border control systems are deployed in multiple countries, providing fast and secure processing. SITA's Smart Path solution integrates facial recognition, streamlining the passenger journey through borders. |
| Sustainability |
HP, Stratasys |
HP focuses on sustainable materials for 3D printing, reducing waste and energy consumption. Stratasys has introduced eco-friendly 3D printing solutions that utilize recyclable materials, appealing to environmentally conscious manufacturers. |
| Passenger Experience |
Airbus, Boeing |
Airbus is enhancing passenger experience through 3D-printed cabin components that reduce weight and improve comfort. Boeing's use of 3D technology in cabin design has led to innovative layouts that enhance passenger satisfaction. |
Conclusion: Navigating 3D Technology's Competitive Landscape
The market for 3D technology in 2023 will be highly competitive and characterized by considerable fragmentation, with both established and new players competing for market share. The growing demand for tailored solutions will force suppliers to adopt new strategies based on AI, automation, and sustainability. The established players will focus on enhancing their existing portfolios with advanced technology, while newcomers will disrupt the market with agile and customer-oriented business models. As the market develops, integrating these capabilities will be a prerequisite for establishing leadership and achieving long-term success in this rapidly changing environment.
