We are likely in the midst of the fastest growth we have seen yet within the 3D printing space, primarily within the manufacturing sector where companies are beefing up there investment into new machines capable of both prototyping as well as end-use production. The primary beneficiaries of all this are the giants within the space, which includes 3D Systems.
Although the stock price of one of the largest additive manufacturing companies in the world, 3D Systems, is down close to 60% from its highs at the start of this year, the company continues to finance its expansion, as a means to take advantage of the tremendous growth the market has seen, and is expected to continue to see in the coming years ahead. Back in May, the company announced that they would be initiating a secondary offering, to raise an additional $317 million for operations as well as acquisitions. Since this offering, they have acquired several major companies including Layerwise, Simbionix and Laser Reproductions.
Here we are, four and a half months later, and 3D Systems has just announced that they have agreed to terms on a $150 million unsecured revolving credit facility with PNC Bank. The agreement, for a 5 year credit facility, can be expanded at 
the company’s option to as much as $225 million.
“Our enhanced capital structure will allow us to strategically execute on our focused long-term initiatives for the benefit of all of our constituents,” said Avi Reichental, 3D Systems’ President and Chief Executive Officer. “This credit facility strengthens our capital structure and provides us with greater financial flexibility to decisively execute our growth strategy.”
Over the last year, 3D Systsems, along with their main competitor, Stratasys, has acquired numerous companies, in an almost tit-for-tat battle to expand into several vertical markets within the space. 3D Systems has focused primarily on medical modelling and printing companies as targets for their acquisitions.
Whether this new credit facility will be used to continue where they have left off or for other business operations, is yet to be seen. The exact terms of the loan have not yet been released. Further details are forthcoming by means of an 8K filing with the SEC.
Let’s hear your thoughts on this latest financing agreement, in the 3D Systems forum thread on 3DPB.com.
