Staples beats major retailers to the 3D punch

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Staples has become the first major U.S. retailer to have 3D printers available for purchase.

The Cube 3D Printer from 3D Systems, a leading global provider of 3D content-to-print solutions, is already available on Staples.com for $1,299.99 and will be available in a limited number of Staples stores by the end of June.

The Cube 3D Printer, ready to use right out of the box, features Wi-Fi, is compatible with Mac or Windows and comes with 25 free 3D templates designed by professional artists, with additional templates available online.

“Staples is excited to bring the power of 3D printing to our customers, by being the first major U.S. retailer to announce the availability of this innovative technology that lets you create fully formed objects in your home or small business,” said Mike Edwards, Staples EVP of merchandising. “Staples is known for carrying the latest technology and 3D printers are the most recent example of our commitment to offering every product your business needs to succeed.”

3D printing has been hailed as a revolutionary method and an efficient technology for manufacturing, allowing for the creation of shapes or objects using digital technology. For companies creating new products, 3D printing can make it easier to design and test new concepts, and decrease the time to market.

“We are absolutely thrilled that a leader and innovator of the caliber of Staples is making it easy to get our award winning Cube 3D Printer family on-line and in their stores,” said Avi Reichental, 3D Systems’ president and CEO. “Staples is the ideal partner to deliver the only true plug and play 3D Printer to offices, living rooms, classrooms and hobby shops, extending our reach and consumer access.”

The Cube 3D printer can print items up to 5.5" x 5.5" x 5.5”, using material cartridges in 16 different colors including metallic silver, glow in the dark and vibrant and neutral colors. Users can either print from a template or create a design using Cube’s own software, Cubify Invent, which is sold separately. Staples also has in stock essential accessories, including recyclable ABS and compostable PLA plastic cartridge refills, replenishment CubeSticks, which are used to stabilize the object being printed, and replacement Cube Print Pads.