01-23-2014: the first article was published on 3DPrint.com
The official debut of one of the most significant media platforms focused on Additive Manufacturing worldwide
On January 23, 2014, the first article was published on the 3DPrint.com website, marking the official debut of one of the most significant media platforms focused on Additive Manufacturing worldwide. The inaugural article, titled "General Electric to Expand 3D Printing Manufacturing – Invests $100 million," was authored by the site’s co-founder Brian Krassenstein. Along with his brother Ed Krassenstein, Brian gained later fame for their uncompromising fight against Donald Trump on Twitter, as well as a series of side controversies and scandals.
Today, 3DPrint.com is one of the largest 3D printing portals globally. It is owned by 3DR Holdings, which, in addition to publishing (including another notable platform, Inside Quantum Technology), organizes conferences—most prominently the Additive Manufacturing Strategies, whose 8th edition is set to begin on February 4.
Over the years, a wide range of distinguished authors has contributed to the platform. The current editorial team includes Michael Molitch-Hou, Joris Peels, Sarah Saunders, Vanesa Listek, and Matt Kremenetsky. In the past, contributors have included Davide Sher (co-founder of VoxelMatters), Sarah Goehrke, Tyler Koslow, and Scott J. Grunewald. I, too, have written a handful of articles for the site.
The portal was founded between December 2013 and January 2014 (according to Wikipedia, though until mid-January, the domain 3DPrint.com still displayed a "for sale" message). It was launched by brothers Brian and Ed Krassenstein, who authored the majority of the content during its early days.
Since the early 2000s, the Krassenstein brothers operated internet forums like TalkGold and MoneyMakerGroup, which were dedicated to promoting high-yield investment programs (HYIPs). In August 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice accused the brothers of profiting from internet fraud schemes. Their homes were searched, and assets—including properties and investments—were seized. The brothers denied any wrongdoing, claiming they merely sold ad space to companies they didn’t know were fraudulent. Ultimately, no criminal charges were filed, but the case resulted in the forfeiture of approximately $450,000 from property sales.
Later, the Krassensteins became known as vocal critics of President Donald Trump, actively commenting on his actions on Twitter. In May 2019, their accounts were permanently banned for allegedly violating the platform’s rules, though they remain active on Twitter today. They have since launched several other ventures, including Hill Reporter and initiatives in the NFT business.
In September 2015, the Krassensteins sold the business to MecklerMedia, led by renowned tech analyst Alan Meckler. Unfortunately, MecklerMedia soon declared bankruptcy, and 3DPrint.com ended up under the ownership of 3DR Holdings, run by Alan’s son, John Meckler. Despite these ownership changes, the portal managed to function seamlessly, with minimal impact on its readers.
Today, 3DPrint.com serves as a critical source of opinion and analysis and stands out as the only AM-focused platform engaging in what could be called "investigative journalism."
Source: www.3dprint.com