The UPS Store will be the first US retailer to test 3D printing services in-store for start-ups,small businesses and retail customers at selected locations, starting in the San Diego area, with
locations in additional cities across the USA in the near future.This innovative and costly technology enables users to make a three-dimensional solid object ofvirtually any shape from a digital model through an additive process where successive layers ofmaterial are ‘printed’ in different shapes. According to experts, it could be a ‘game-changer’ forthe transport & logistics industry as customers can in theory make their own product ratherthan buying it.
“Start-ups, entrepreneurs and small business owners may not have the capital to purchase a 3Dprinter on their own, but they may have a need to show prototypes to their current and potentialcustomers,” Michelle Van Slyke, vice president of marketing and small business solutions at The UPSStore, said. “By offering 3D printing capabilities in-centre, we’re able to help further our smallbusiness customers’ opportunities for success.”
The UPS Store is testing the Stratasys uPrint SE Plus printer which is able to print detailedobjects more accurately than home 3D printers. The UPS Store locations will be equipped with thisprinter to produce items such as engineering parts, functional prototypes, acting props,architectural models, fixtures for cameras, lights and cables.
The move follows a recent poll conducted by The UPS Store in June with 86 small business ownerswho showed high interest in trying the services, and especially those who need to createprototypes, artistic renderings or promotional materials.
With more than 4,300 locations across the USA, The UPS Store network comprises a franchisesystem of retail shipping, postal, print and business service centres offering a range of servicestailored to meet the needs of small businesses in all stages of the business lifecycle. Theseinclude packing and shipping, printing, faxing, direct mail and mailbox services, among others butThe UPS Store locations also work with business owners to develop customised solutions to meettheir unique business needs.
