Proto Labs update, looks like with this buy 3D is now a competitor
Earlier this week on May 1, 3D Systems Corporation (DDD) announced that it had acquired and will immediately integrate San Diego-based Rapid Product Development Group, Inc. ("RPDG").
RPDG is described in the press release as a provider of "on-demand additive and traditional manufacturing services" and services a global customer base in the automotive, computer, consumer appliance, medical device, and industrial equipment industry.
The term "additive" refers to 3D printing services, and by "traditional" they are referring to the use of older technologies such as CNC machining, injection molding, die casting, etc. The company offers a Rapid Quote service that allows customers to upload CAD files, configure a project, and instantly receive a quote; as shown in this brief video and the screen shots below, place an order, and have their parts and prototypes quickly produced and delivered.
This will sound very familiar to followers of Proto Labs, Inc. (PRLB) as it is essentially the same business, with the notable exception that Proto Labs only provides the older traditional services and not additive 3D printing capabilities.
