He claimed that, as the products rapidly mature, organisations will start exploiting the 3D printing’s potential in their laboratory, product development and manufacturing operations. “In the next 18 months, we foresee consumers moving from being curious about the technology to finding reasons to justify purchases as price points, applications and functionality become more attractive,” he noted.

Basiliere expects a tremendous decline in the price of 3D printers with competitive pressures and higher shipment volumes over the next several years, accompanied by a large number of multinational retailers selling 3D printers through their physical and online stores. By 2015 it is predicting seven of the 50 largest multinational retailers will enter in the 3D printing market.

“Office superstore Staples is already in the market, and other superstores and consumer goods retailers, such as Yamada Denki, are prime candidates to sell printers and finished 3D printed items. Their presence in the market will have an impact on average selling prices, forcing providers into low-margin sales of consumer 3DP by 2017,” Basiliere added.

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