3D printers are coming to Staples

Staples Inc. has been a place to get printing done since it opened in the 1980s, but now the retailer is taking printing to a whole new level.



Starting Sept. 14, Staples, is offering a new online 3D printing platform, which will let small businesses and consumers upload their own 3D designs or select from a curated assortment of models.

The new platform will allow users to submit their own 3D files on Staples.com, and customize designs by selecting from an assortment of materials and colors as well as adding text, figures, and images to any printable project. It also features a responsive, interactive 3D viewer so users can preview their creation before it’s printed.



Staples has offered 3D printing as a service in its retail locations and through its copy & print sales teams, but the new service offering makes 3D printing more accessible.



“This is a great addition for our business customers that are looking for an easy way to prototype with quick turnaround time, and at an affordable price,” said Behzad Soltani, VP of services, e-commerce for Staples, Inc. “The platform allows beginners to get a taste and try 3D printing by selecting one of our existing models and making it their own through our customization options.”



The platform is powered bySculpteo, an online 3D printing service that offers on-demand 3D printing of individual products as well as short-run manufacturing.



Staples previously announced in May 2013 that it would be the first major U.S. retailer to carry 3D printers. The company has since rolled out 3D printing hardware and accessories in a limited number of stores, and expanded its overall product selection to include printers by MakerBot.



In addition, the retailer launched in-store 3D printing services in pilot stores in New York City and Los Angeles, as well as in a limited number of stores supported by Stratasys.