Formlabs partners with Digital China

Boston-based 3D printing company Formlabs signed a partnership agreement with Digital China in Shenzhen on Friday. Formlabs expects to leverage Digital China's strength in distribution to further expand into the Chinese market.

The collaboration will provide more 3D printing solutions tailored to the needs of Chinese clients. “Our collaboration with Digital China marks a significant leap forward for Formlabs,” said Michael Agam, APAC general manager of Formlabs.

Products from Formlabs. File Photo

“Through a blend of innovation and localization strategies, we anticipate collaborating with Digital China and other partners to shape the future of smart manufacturing in China.” Agam also disclosed that Formlabs, which has been operating in Shenzhen for six years, plans to build an R&D team in the city. The company cited Shenzhen’s strategic location and abundant talent pool as key factors behind this decision.

“We are very happy for this cooperation. By tapping into our localized channel resources and market expertise, Digital China will fully support the deployment of Formlabs’ innovative technologies in the region,” said Shi Yi, vice president of applied electronics BG at the Digital China Group.

As part of this partnership, Formlabs will bring its next-generation Low Force Display™ (LFD) printing engine into China, which offers reliability in SLA 3D printing. The company‘s Form 4L printer, known for its ability to print large parts quickly and accurately, has become popular among users.

China’s 3D printing equipment manufacturing capacity soared by 51.6% year-on-year in the first half of 2024, outpacing growth in other sectors such as new energy vehicles and integrated circuits.

3D printing technology is widely used across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, mold manufacturing, healthcare, education, architecture, jewelry, footwear, and industrial design.