MakerBot Inks Deal With Tech Data To Expand Their North American Footprint

Three-dimensional printing, scanning and software leader MakerBot announced recently that it was partnering with global wholesale technology and services distributor, Tech Data Corporation.

The partnership, which is set to last a year, will see Tech Data distribute Makerbot products exclusively to its channel of more than 115,000 resellers in 100 countries.

“Partnering with Tech Data is an exciting opportunity for MakerBot to expand the reach of our 3D printing, scanning and software solutions,” said Mark Schulze, vice president of Sales for MakerBot. “With a solid understanding of how quickly the desktop 3D printing market is growing and their commitment to supporting top-tier resellers targeting the professional, educational and consumer markets, signing on with Tech Data was an easy decision to make.”

MakerBot inked the distribution agreement with the hope of attaining a firmer grip on the United States’ 3D printing market.  Tech Data is a huge player in the wholesale distribution market.  Last year alone they reported revenues exceeding $26 billion.

Before this partnership, MakerBot sold the majority of its products to U.S. consumers directly via its website, MakerBot-branded retail stores in New York and New England, and in 2013, the company also began selling its 3D printers in Microsoft Retail Stores, as well as on Amazon.

Wendy Maurer-Linsky, vice president, Product Marketing, Systems and Peripherals at Tech Data said that the partnership is a win for everyone involved—MakerBot, Tech Data and the consumer.

“Due to the rise in market demand and rapid adoption of 3D printing and scanning we have observed, Tech Data is partnering with MakerBot to offer solution providers the best-in-class products they seek to meet the needs of their end-user customers,” she said.

The distribution partnership will also allow MakerBot to dive into the Canadian market and attempt to meet the consumer demand there for 3D printers, peripherals and accessories.

“Tech Data Canada is also excited about the addition of MakerBot’s 3D printing and scanning products to its printing and imaging product offerings,” said Manal Guirguis, director of Product Marketing, Tech Data Canada. “This partnership will allow us to provide our reseller partners across Canada with a unique mix of leading-edge products that meet end users’ growing demands and will further expand their businesses and profitability in the channel.”

As the competition heats up, and new companies pop up offering cheaper 3D printers via crowdfunding and other methods, it will be extremely important for Makerbot to expand their reach and name recognition as far as possible.  This deal should certainly help them do just that.   Discuss this article in the Makerbot/Tech Data forum thread at 3DPB.com.