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How logistics companies can benefit from 3D printing
After industrial production used 3D printing technologies for many years mainly to be able to develop prototypes and product designs more quickly, the development of additive manufacturing is now moving more and more rapidly towards the direct production of functional parts.
The logistics industry in particular benefits from this development, since decentralization and individualized mass production, 2 key strengths of 3D printing, in particular. In particular, the efforts of logistics companies to access locally available materials just-in-time should be of decisive importance for the spread of 3D printing technology in this industry.
The new trend from global to local
A consequence of 3D printing for the production of goods that should not be underestimated could be that the globalization is at least partially reversed. If the shift of production to low-wage countries has been a decisive factor in the globalization of markets, this factor is disappearing to the extent that additive manufacturing enables fast and inexpensive local production. At the same time, this eliminates any risks with regard to punctual delivery and any political instability in production countries.
Another advantage of on-site production is the saving on storage costs if, instead of goods, only software for the just-in-time production of goods is delivered.
How 3D printing is changing the logistics industry
In principle, it can be assumed that the business field and strategic orientation of the logistician will change as a result of the spread of additive manufacturing, since it is no longer the flow of goods itself, but the smart servicescomes to the fore.
Since the physical transport of produced goods, especially over long distances, can be substituted by 3D printing, the logistician is faced with the need to redefine his role. If he succeeds in this and integrates 3D printing as a technological innovation in his product portfolio, this will result in some far-reaching potential for expanding the business model and core competencies.
A crucial point for the logistician: He should pay attention to geographically sensibly placed “3D printing centers” in order to ensure timely delivery of goods.
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