3D printing industry posted 34.9% growth in 2013

The market for 3D printing, consisting of all products and services worldwide, grew to $3.07 billion last year, according to the newly released Wohlers Report 2014 by Wohler Associates, Inc. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34.9% is the highest in 17 years. The growth of worldwide revenues over the past 26 years has averaged 27%. The CAGR for the past three years (2011–2013) was 32.3%.

Wohlers Associates believes the industry will continue strong growth over the next several years, fueled by sales of under $5,000 “personal” 3D printers, as well as the expanded use of the technology for the production of parts, especially metal, that go into final products. "The industry is experiencing change that we have not seen in 20+ years of tracking it," stated Tim Caffrey, senior consultant at the company and one of two principal authors of the new report. He added, "What's most exciting is that we have barely scratched the surface of what's possible."

The report marks the 19th consecutive year of its availability. The new publication provides an in-depth review and analysis of the additive manufacturing and 3D printing—terms that are used interchangeably—worldwide. It includes industry growth, competitive products and services, and a futuristic perspective on an industry that has created tremendous interest and excitement in the recent past.

Established in 1986, Wohlers Associates is an independent consulting firm that provides technical, marketing, and strategic advice on the new developments and trends in additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and rapid product development.   

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