UPS will offer 3D printing in some stores using a Stratasys uPrint SE Plus, a 3D printer which costs at least $15,000. They are aiming this at businesses that want to prototype new designs. Fabaloo blog applauds this but wonder if small-time 3D print services are about to get pushed aside by big companies moving into the field.
From the UPS press release
“Start-ups, entrepreneurs and small business owners may not have the capital to purchase a 3D printer on their own, but they may have a need to show prototypes to their current and potential customers,” said Michelle Van Slyke, vice president of marketing and small business solutions at The UPS Store. “By offering 3D printing capabilities in-center, we’re able to help further our small business customers’ opportunities for success.”