HP Expands 3D Printing Offering to China

HP launched its 3D printing solution in China as part of an expansion drive in the country, which also includes a focus on digital printing, in a bid to transform China’s traditional printing industry. In 3D printing, HP has partnered with Hangzhou Shining 3D ePrint Tech Co Ltd, which will offer the major’s 3D printers and services across 50 locations, including Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu, and Guangzhou. Other partners, including Infinite 3D Printing—one of the largest local providers of 3D printing services—will distribute HP’s 3D printing offering in other parts of the country.

It looks like HP is riding the wave of manufacturing transformation in China as laid out in the Made in China 2025 strategy. Lower print costs, higher productivity, and the possibility for custom-made products are among the advantages of 3D printing technology that will drive this industry’s growth.

Besides 3D printing, HP is also targeting the young generation with mobile printing solutions including its mini portable printer Sprocket 100. With a price tag of $135, the Sprocket is not only small but relatively affordable and the app that allows users to customize their photos is free. The target group, naturally, is millennials, the connected generation. In digital print HP is also seeking the help of local companies, including the biggest design and e-commerce portal in China, YiFu Tu, as well as the largest online printing platform in the country, Easy.