Stratasys Deepens Foothold in China, Buys Out Assets of Intelligent CAD/CAM Technology Ltd.

Stratasys has turned their attention toward China, enough so that they have bought out partner Intelligent CAD/CAM Technology Ltd (ICT) and look to be taking over operations with an expanded local team that they hope to use to gain deeper and better insight into the needs of their base in China.

While the logical thought process regarding 3D printing has been that the U.S. and other countries would gain a much-needed advantage over China’s manufacturing foothold worldwide, that may not truly ever become a reality—and especially as China begins to take a strong interest—and lead—in 3D printing as a manufacturing alternative. 3D printing incorporates and invites many of the different strengths China possesses with manufacturing, electronics, and more. As they begin to excel and thrive with the use of 3D printing, they have the potential to become twice as strong in the manufacturing industry they’ve dominated for so long.

Stratasys is certainly taking the best path possible in keeping their lead in the industry by taking the reins themselves in assessing and providing 3D printing solutions for China. Regarding China, it was announced this week that Stratasys AP, which is a subsidiary, ‘closed an asset purchase transaction’ with ICT regarding ‘certain assets.’ It was also announced that they will service customers who are already in place and were dealing with ICT previously.

“China is an important market for Stratasys and vital to our success in the region,” said Jonathan Jaglom, General Manager of Stratasys Asia Pacific and Japan.

ICT and Stratasys will continue to work together on other printing projects, as Stratasys focuses on their long-term plans and action for maximizing growth in China, laying down new roots as the old ones continue to grow.

Focus for Stratasys China lies in:

• Automotive
• Education
• Dental
• Consumer electronics
• Consumer goods
• Medical/medical equipment
• Industrial machinery

“We notice that the adoption of 3D printing applications in many vertical markets is rising with the growth of leading innovative enterprises in China,” said Jaglom. “We believe that our expanded local team lays a strong foundation to support these demands, enhancing responsiveness and operational efficiency.  As an industry leader, we continue to strive for technology and service excellence through the offering of cutting-edge 3D printing solutions and high level of customer service satisfaction.”

With a solid network already established in China, Stratasys will continue to offer their wide range of patented 3D printing technologies. How do you think 3D printing will affect the manufacturing hold China has had for so long? Do you think Stratasys will be able to maintain their status as a leader in 3D printing as China begins to excel and make use of 3D printing along with traditional manufacturing practices? Tell us your thoughts in the Stratasys in China forum thread over at 3DPB.com.