MakerBot has exclusive rights for now, but that could change

Nov 25, 2014 10:55 GMT  ·  By

MakerBot has been selling its 3D printers and scanners mostly through its own means, as well as some retail/reseller channels, but with such products getting closer to gaining “home appliance” status, it is time for them to join refrigerators and electronics in home depot stores.

That's what Staples believed, and what MakerBot itself now agrees on. The two have established a partnership.

Staples will now offer MakerBot Replicator 3D Printers and Digitizer 3D Scanners for sale through its retail locations. There are 50 stores in total, spread across 18 different states in the United States of America.

Not the best news for those of us who live on the Old Continent or anywhere else in the world, but it does suggest that the retail and reseller channels will expand outside the US sooner or later.

It might take a few months, though. MakerBot will be Staples’ “exclusive provider of in-store 3D printing hardware” according to the Staples website.

The MakerBot locator page has the complete list of Staples locations where you can personally browse and buy a 3D printer or scanner.

I don't need to say what benefits there will be to 3D printers in general, having them clearly in view of everyone passing through a store looking for a headset or frying pan.

Staples will also offer in-store sales of RedEye industrial 3D printers, for those with more professional/heavyweight needs.

Staples and MakerBot partner up (5 Images)

In-store view of MakerBot products
MakerBot Replicator Mini 3D printerMakerBot 3D scanner
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