Swedish SLS 3D printer manufacturer Wematter announces that it has entered into an agreement to be acquired by 3D Systems. What started as an exclusive distribution agreement turned into an acquisition to diversify 3D Systems’ portfolio.
At the heart of this acquisition is the  Gravity 3D printer, an affordable, SLS 3D printing solution launched in 2019. Designed to work in compact environments outside factory premises, the closed system is CE certified for use in offices, hospitals, and research laboratories to manufacture production parts for a variety of applications, including automotive, consumer goods, and medical equipment.
As a reminder, the 3D printer requires a standard power source and Ethernet connection enabling plug-and-play installation and can already process a portfolio of 20 materials. Furthermore, thanks to a cloud-based connectivity, users can start and monitor print jobs remotely, while taking advantage of preventive maintenance to maximize uptime and productivity.
Over time, Wematter has expanded to three models, Gravity Essential, Gravity Essential+ and Gravity Enterprise, to facilitate the introduction of SLS into a range of application areas.
Through this strategic acquisition, 3D Systems sees in Wematter’s technology, a solution that can be “used in environments where it would previously have been deemed impossible”.
“Since the announcement last fall that 3D Systems would become the exclusive global distributor Wematter’s products, it became increasingly apparent to us how beneficial it would be to have this team and technology as part of our company. Through the acquisition of Wematter, we’ll benefit from their team’s unique engineering approach and expertise as part of our R&D organization, and our customers will benefit from the capabilities of this user-friendly, elegant platform at a more affordable price point. I believe this will enable a new category of manufacturers to take advantage of the benefits of additive manufacturing to transform their businesses and accelerate innovation,” Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president and CEO, 3D Systems comments.
3D Systems alone acquired nearly 30 companies total from 2011-2016. Since it announced its restructuration plan – after the Covid-19 pandemic -, the giant acquired 6 companies: Bioprinting and Simulation Firms Allevi and Additive Works, software company Oqton, as well as 3D printer manufacturers Kumovis, Titan Robotics, dp polar. Wematter is the 7th company to join the company’s portfolio.
This transaction is expected to close in July 2023.
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