Staples partners with 3D systems to bring 3D printing to stores

Staples has announced a partnership with 3D Systems to provide 3D printing services at two of its retail locations.

Customers can bring their 3D print-ready files to have them printed at Staples' stores on 5th Avenue in Manhattan, N.Y. and Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, Calif.

"We believe that literally millions of small businesses and customers could benefit from the technology," said Damien Leigh, senior vice president of business services for Staples. "We wanted to educate businesses so they can get involved with 3D printing at a fraction of the cost because right now they don't understand it."

Staples will have demonstration areas in its stores where customers can learn to use simple design software and see the printers in action. Employees from 3D Systems and trained Staples Copy and Print associates will be on site to help.

"We have been thrilled with the retail experience and response from our audience, and the difference it makes being able to see, touch and experience 3D printing," said Rajeev Kulkarni, 3D Systems' vice president and general manager, for consumer products division in a statement.

Customers' items will be printed on site with one of Staples' six 3D printers. More complex projects go through 3D Systems, which are then shipped to customers offices or homes when finished. In stores, customers can print with plastic substrates or powder. Through the 3D Systems partnership, customers will also have access to nylon and ceramic.

"If you want 3D printing you have to have capital and understand it; you can't buy it as a service in a straight forward way," Leigh said. "This market as a service doesn't exist today but with access to our stores and trained associates we are equipped to help customers."

Pricing is determined on a case-by-case basis based on volume of material used. Customers get an estimate when they come in with their print ready file.

Chris DeMeo, director of business development at Staples, said a 3D printed cellphone case mixed with plastic and nylon retails for $30, a customized figurine would cost $70 and a 3D printed guitar could range from $3-5 thousand.

"The pilot project has resulted in interest from jewelers, medical professionals, product designers, architects and even from people involved in aerospace technologies," DeMeo said. "They can benefit by having a 3-dimensional representation of that product in their hand. It changes the way they do business."

Staples also sells 3D printers. The most affordable printer it offers is the Cube 3D Printer from 3D Systems for $1299.99.

"We launched to a full house yesterday and now people are asking about the hardware," DeMeo said. "The interest level of hardware has definitely increased."