FRAMINGHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Staples, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPLS) today announced a new online 3D printing platform which will let small businesses and consumers upload their own 3D designs or select from a curated assortment of models. The site is scheduled to go live on Staples.com the week of September 14.
The new platform will allow users to submit their own 3D files, and customize designs by selecting from a wide array of materials and colors as well as adding text, figures, and images to any printable project. The platform also features a responsive, interactive 3D viewer so users can preview their creation before it’s printed.
Staples has offered 3D printing as a service in its retail locations and through its Copy & Print sales teams, but the new service offering makes 3D printing even easier for businesses.
“This is a great addition for our business customers that are looking for an easy way to prototype with quick turnaround time, and at an affordable price,” said Behzad Soltani, vice president of services, e-commerce for Staples, Inc. “The platform allows beginners to get a taste and try 3D printing by selecting one of our existing models and making it their own through our customization options.”
The platform is powered by Sculpteo, an online 3D printing service that offers on-demand 3D printing of individual products as well as short-run manufacturing.
“We are thrilled to support Staples through our 3D Printing Cloud Engine. This is an exciting time for 3D Printing in Retail” said Clément Moreau, CEO & Co-Founder of Sculpteo, “Staples will become an entry point for both businesses and the general public to benefit of 3D printing, and we are proud that Sculpteo’s technology will help to make that possible.”
Staples previously announced in May of 2013 that it would be the first major U.S. retailer to carry 3D printers. The company has since rolled out 3D printing hardware and accessories in a limited number of stores, and expanded its overall product selection to include printers by MakerBot. The company also launched in-store 3D printing services in pilot stores in New York City and Los Angeles, as well as in a limited number of stores supported by Stratasys.
About Staples
Staples makes it easy to make more happen with
more products and more ways to shop. Through its world-class retail,
online and delivery capabilities, Staples lets customers shop however
and whenever they want, whether it’s in-store, online or on mobile
devices. Staples offers more products than ever, such as technology,
facilities and breakroom supplies, furniture, safety supplies, medical
supplies, and Copy and Print services. Staples also offers free shipping
for Staples Rewards Members, in most cases overnight. Headquartered
outside of Boston, Staples operates throughout North and South America,
Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. More information about Staples
(SPLS) is available at www.staples.com.
About Sculpteo
Sculpteo is an online 3D printing service
based in San Francisco and Paris. They offer on-demand 3D printing of
individual products as well as short-run manufacturing. They have 45
materials, colors, and finishes available, plus superior file analysis
and repair. Their factories use only professional printers and provide
fast turnaround with worldwide delivery. Sculpteo was founded in 2009 by
Eric Carreel and Clément Moreau. For more information visit: www.sculpteo.com.
