Exploring 3D printing technology in the context of product-service innovation: case study of a business venture in south of France

Abstract

This study explores the novelty of 3D printing technology in the context of product-service innovation. 3D printing, officially known as additive manufacturing, is one of the flagship technologies within the new industrial revolution and Industry 4.0 scholar discourse. However, there is an evident lack of empirical studies that explore the characteristics of consumer-level 3D printing technology in the contexts of servitisation of manufacturing, digital transformations and business model innovations. This literature gap motivated our study where we question how entrepreneurs develop their business strategies for challenging 3D printing market, whilst also discussing the servitisation features of 3D printing technology. Our findings are drawn from a single case study of a company that pioneered 3D printing in south of France, with a mixture of 3D printing products and services as their core business portfolio. Contributions of this study are directed towards scholar discussions dealing with the consumer segment of 3D printing market, servitisation theory, as well as providing useful insights for stakeholders interested in business ventures with 3D printing technology.