The Aurora Group, China’s largest electronics and office supply retailer, has agreed to become the exclusive distributor of Stratasys’ Idea Series of professional desktop 3D Printers. Stratasys’ Idea line consists of its entry-level Mojo printer, its uPrint SE printer and the uPrint SE Plus model. The current price of printers in the Idea Series line ranges from $10,000 for a Mojo to $20,000 for an advanced uPrint SE variant.
With over 500 locations throughout China, Aurora gives Stratasys a major physical presence in the emerging economy, and can introduce the technology to entrepreneurs in remote locations. To that end Aurora says they will provide hands on training and handle regular maintenance for end users.
According to analysts in China, the worldwide 3D printing market was valued at around $2.1 billion in 2012 with Chinese businesses contributing $163.4 million to that number.
As 3D printing technology matures, experts predict the Chinese 3D printing market will continue to grow, with some expecting it to reach over $1 billion in the next three years. What’s more, experts also believe that by 2016 China will become the World’s largest 3D printing market.
Source: The China Post