The Latest in Online Retail: 3D Product Printing from Amazon

3D (three dimensional) printing has a Star Trek feel to it that grabbed consumers’ attention from day one. Visions of saying “Computer, tea, black” and having it appear in a “replicator” at home seemed magical back in those days. Today, 3D printing has brought us closer to it being reality than we ever thought possible.

It isn’t surprising that 3D printing has quickly come to market. Printer prices are coming down and software has been developed for the average user. However, you don’t have to own a 3D printer to enjoy the customization benefits of 3D design. Retail innovation leader, Amazon, brings 3D printing merchants to you in their new 3D printing store. There you will find customizable jewelry, home decor, toys, tech accessories, and the ability to create other customized products.

3D Printers make a variety of objects using a laser that moves along an X, Y and Z axis to build an object in three dimensions,” states Amazon. “3D printing is considered the future of print and manufacturing, and is set to dramatically change the way we buy and produce products in the future.”

Indeed, this opens up a whole new world of possibilities for virtually anyone, from the entrepreneur to the consumer.

The possibilities and benefits of 3D printing innovation in the marketplace include:

  • A wonderful opportunity to inexpensively start or expand your retail business.
  • You can be among the first manufacturers to bring printable products to the Canadian market, while also offering your creations around the world.
  • Designers/inventors can take their creation directly to market, or provide it to third party manufacturers.
  • There are no minimum order limits for those needing a new product manufactured or prototype.
  • Consumers accept that personalized products cannot be returned, which saves you the hassles that come with return policies.

“The introduction of our 3D Printed Products store suggests the beginnings of a shift in online retail – that manufacturing can be more nimble to provide an immersive customer experience.” Petra Schindler-Carter, director for Amazon Marketplace Sales said. “Sellers, in alignment with designers and manufacturers, can offer more dynamic inventory for customers to personalize and truly make their own. The 3D Printed Products store allows us to help sellers, designers and manufacturers reach millions of customers while providing a fun and creative customer experience to personalize a potentially infinite number of products at great prices across many product categories.”

The 3D printing learning curve is relatively easy and Amazon carries a variety of books on the topic if you need them. If you’re ready to cash in on this market, there is software available via Amazon for 3D printer designers. They also offer other accessories, such as 3D scanners and materials.

Canadians can be a hesitant bunch when it comes to online retail, but we believe 3D products will be too difficult to resist for long. Everyone likes to give unique gifts and who doesn’t want a “Mini Me”? We’ll be watching this space with great interest.

Source: Internet Retailing

✔ You may also be interested in reading:
Test eCommerce Waters with Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)
Canadian eCommerce and Website Marketing Statistics
B2B PR/Marketing Opportunity: New eCommerce Tech Series

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Digital Business & Marketing Manager at Online Business Canada | Website | + posts

Melody McKinnon is an internet entrepreneur with 25 years of experience in a wide range of online business models, backed by a formal business education and enhanced by training and mentorship. She has owned or managed both educational and ecommerce websites. Her book, 7 Recession Proof Online Businesses to Start From Home, is available from all major ebook retailers.

Melody has worked with many businesses & brands in a multitude of capacities. She can often be found on CanadianDigitalMedia.com, CanadiansInternet.com, CanadianFamily.net, and AllNaturalPetCare.com, as well as other quality digital publications. Her content has earned reference links from highly-respected websites, magazines and university textbooks.

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Russell Saches

Good web site you’ve got here.. It’s hard to find quality writing like yours these days. I honestly appreciate people like you! Take care!!

Walter

Cutting edge and it would be smart to jump on it…yesterday.

Sonny

How cool is that!!!! I’ve got to do something with this just for fun even.

Cheyenne

As an artist I’m totally taken with this idea. I wonder if there’s a place where I could try a 3D printer before buying it? It’s tough to tell if it would be ideal for what i have in mind or not.

Tanya C

the first time I heard of a 3d printer was on the big bang theory LOL it seemed so sci-fi i didn’t think it would be something for the average person for at least a decade. love progress.

DanaP4

You seriously need to review 3d printers! We need some direction with the technology being so new. Please please please?