Some CPG companies are outsourcing production of specialty orders to 3D print providers.
Eyeglass designer Bawsome, for example, uses Materialise’s Factory for 3D Printing as its made-to-order manufacturing and fulfillment arm.2
And that’s where cloud computing comes into the picture. It is the integration of 3D printing technology and the virtually limitless capacity of cloud computing that allows the tracking of an infinite number of customer designs.
It’s that integration that holds the greatest potential—and poses the greatest challenge—for consumer goods manufacturers.
We’re not just talking about the production of hard goods. From lollipops to pancakes, the personalization and production capabilities afforded by 3D printing are virtually endless.3
When Jell-O and chocolate can be printed, it is just a matter of time before toothpaste and shampoo can be, too. What happens then?
In a world of consumer-initiated customization, just about anything can happen.
We help our CPG clients consider new business models that will sustain their relevance in a world where consumers will use 3D printing and other technology to create their own products.
To learn more about how we see cloud computing and other digital technologies changing the industry, check out our slideshare.
References
1 Teddy ‘Roo, “New Balance 574 Customization Kiosk at Foot Locker Times Square,” Foot Locker website post, August 27, 2013. Retrieved March 25, 2015 from http://unlocked.footlocker.com/blog/2013/08/27/new-balance-574-customization-kiosk-at-foot-locker-times-square/
2 “The Future of Personalization Looks Bawsome,” Materialise website. Retrieved March 25, 2015 from http://manufacturing.materialise.com/cases/future-personalization-looks-bawsome
3 3D Printing Industry website. Retrieved March 25, 2015 from http://3dprintingindustry.com/food/
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