3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) has entered into a strategic agreement with Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., under which the latter will distribute the firm’s entire 3D printing product lineup to dealers and authorized sellers along with a direct sales channel. With this deal, Konica Minolta has become the first original equipment manufacturer to sell, support and service 3D printing products in United States using traditional office equipment channel.
Products of 3D Systems offered
Under the agreement, Konica Minolta will resell 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD)’s ProJet® 3500 Series Professional 3D Printer, which is made for engineering, manufacturing and mechanical environments. The printer will efficiently print high quality, durable plastic parts with accurate and high resolutions. The machine is also suitable for manufacturing, functional testing, design communication, rapid tooling and more.
Another product is ProJet® 660 Professional 3D Printer, which focuses on consumer products, healthcare, education and other vertical market customers who would like to print full-color, photo-realistic models for product design, prototypes, assemblies and color concept models.
Michele Marchesan, Chief Opportunity Officer, 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) said that the company is excited to work with an established and experienced partner like Konica Minolta U.S.A. and use their nationwide network to increase 3D printing adoption. Marchesan said that company’s ability to zero in on world-class organizations like Konica Minolta gives it an edge over the competitors, and offers an opportunity to cater to the needs of awider range of customers, maintain closer relationships and gain insights into the needs of users.
Konica an early mover in 3D market
Konica dominates the content management, technology optimization and cloud service with solutions that enhance speed, balance technology costs and maximize information sharing to boost productivity. The deal with 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) will support Konica in moving into the rapidly-developing 3D printing market, and support and enhance its products and services portfolio distributed through its network of dealers in the United States. The company is working towards improving its presence in high growth industries such as manufacturing/industrial, healthcare and education applications.
Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc, said, “Our goal is to arm our nationwide, exceptional sales organization with the cutting-edge products and services they need to grow their businesses and gain a competitive edge.” Kern added that by entering into a deal with a 3D business, the company will be able to offer a comprehensive suite of 3D printer materials and services.
