European sales of 3D printers, materials, software and related services total $3.6 billion in 2017, IDC reports-- and are set to increase at a CAGR of 15.3% to reach $7.4bn in 2022.
"3D printing has the potential to expand the manufacturing industry, shift distribution locally, and implement on-demand production, reducing unnecessary inventories and shipping costs," the analyst says. "It will enable mass customisation and printing of different products while reducing costs and recycling excess printer powder. Product weight can also be reduced, and fewer tools will be needed because 3D printers can replace some of them."
W. Europe holds 83% of 2017 European 3D printing revenues, and will remain the largest contributor across the region, growing at a CAGR of 14.4% for 2017-2022. On the other hand CEE is the fastest-growing region, with a CAGR of 19.1% for the forecast period. Either way the European market is showing "good momentum," and 2018 should prove to be a turning point.
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