MakerBot: Access to 3D Printers

MakerBot Industries is an American company that produces 3D printers. Based in Brooklyn, New York, MakerBot was founded by Adam Mayer, Bre Pettis and Zach Smith in 2009. Smith was one of the co-founders of RepRap Research Foundation, which helped advance the early stage of research in open source 3D printers.

MakerBot started with its shipment of kits in 2009. That year, the demands for the kits were so great that MakerBot started to ask help from kit owners to provide the company with the parts that will make future MakerBots. By the end of 2011, MakerBot has sold more than 3,500 units.

For its startup years, MakerBot was able to raise funds of $50,000 from Jake Lodwick and$25,000 from couple Adrian and Christine Bowyer. In August 2011, The Foundry Group placed $10 million in MakerBot and subsequently took a seat in the board.

In June 2013, the majority shares of MakerBot were acquired by Stratasys Inc. for $403 million. The price was based on Stratasys’ current share value. MakerBot became a subsidiary of Stratasys and continues to operate as a distinct brand despite the purchase.

MakerBot produces products that are easy to build. Anyone with basic technical knowledge could assemble MakerBot kits. The kits are packed as a DIY and the printers require just minor soldering. One review said, building MakerBot kits is as complicated as assembling IKEA furniture.

At present, MakerBot’s printers are using high density polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polyvinyl alcohol, and polylactic acid. Using MakerBot printers is relatively cheaper when compared with other 3D printers. MakerBot has set up the best support staff that responds to technical problems. Its hobbyist community also provides the needed peer support for users.

However, like any product sold in the market, MakerBot printers have their downsides too, such as its small build envelope. Its support materials are the same with its build materials.

MakerBot is implementing a continuing product innovation. In fact, while its printers are sold in the market, MakerBot is simultaneously doing upgrades. The upgrades did not even have to get out of the factory as product enhancements. Upgrades usually end up as improvements or redesigns of prior models.