3D printing and additive manufacturing industry exceeds $3B in 2013, says Wohlers Associates

Fort Collins, CO - Wohlers Associates has published its Wohlers Report 2014, which provides an in-depth review and analysis of additive manufacturing and 3D printing—terms that are used interchangeably—worldwide. Now in its 19th consecutive year, it includes industry growth, competitive products and services, and a futuristic perspective on an industry that has created tremendous interest and excitement in the recent past.

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The market for 3D printing, consisting of all products and services worldwide, grew to $3.07 billion last year, according to the new report. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34.9 percent is the highest in 17 years. The growth of worldwide revenues over the past 26 years has averaged 27 percent. The CAGR for the past three years (2011–2013) was 32.3 percent.

Wohlers Report 2014 is a comprehensive study that covers all aspects of 3D printing, including its history, applications, processes, materials, and manufacturers. It covers developments in R&D, investment, collaborative activities in government, academia, and industry, and summarizes the state of the industry from around the world.

Wohlers Associates believes the industry will continue strong growth over the next several years. It will be fueled by sales of under $5,000 3D printers, as well as the expanded use of the technology for the production of parts, especially metal, that go into final products.

"The industry is experiencing change that we have not seen in 20+ years of tracking it," stated Tim Caffrey, senior consultant at the company and one of two principal authors of the new report. He added, "What's most exciting is that we have barely scratched the surface of what's possible."

The 276-page annual study is packed with up-to-date and practical information that includes 35 charts and graphs, 60 tables, and 248 images and illustrations. For more information, please visit http://wohlersassociates.com.