Spain is Formnext 2025 partner country
The Atomic Layers: S7E11 (00189)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
Less than three months have passed since the last Formnext, and Mesago Messe Frankfurt, the event organizers, have already returned with the first details regarding this year's edition.
Today, it was announced that Spain has been selected as the event's partner country.
Spain's 3D printing industry is expanding rapidly and plays a key role in connecting Europe with South America. In 2024, around 30 Spanish exhibitors participated in Formnext, and the country has consistently ranked among the top in terms of attendee numbers.
Since 2014, Spain's industrial sector has grown by 7.3%, while production in other European countries, such as France and Germany, has stagnated or declined. In 2023, the Spanish machine tool sector achieved record sales of €2.157 billion. The country benefits from strong supply chains, decentralized production capabilities, and a culture of innovation, further strengthening its position in the 3D printing market.
Last week, we featured 11 companies from Spain in the fourth edition of our 3D Printing World Guide:
The Spanish AM industry currently employs more than 1,200 people and has been experiencing double-digit annual growth. According to the Wohlers Report, 1.5% of all 3D printers worldwide are located in Spain. While the market remains relatively small, forecasts indicate continued dynamic growth in the coming years.
The AM sector in Spain is highly diverse, encompassing both well-known 3D printing system manufacturers (HP, Indart3D, R3DIMENSION, REINFORCE3D, Ziknes) and material suppliers (RECREUS, CRAMIK), as well as software developers and printing service providers (Bronymec, NeoForm).
This year's Formnext partners are ADDIMAT and IAM3DHUB. ADDIMAT, operating within the AFM Cluster, was founded in 2014 and brings together over 100 companies involved in 3D printing, including machine manufacturers, material suppliers, and service providers. IAM3DHUB, based in Barcelona, is an industrial consortium managed by Leitat that supports the adoption of 3D printing by providing feasibility analyses, training, and strategic guidance.
Atomic Layer from the Past:
02-11-2014: Intel invested in a growing 3D model marketplace—CGTrader.
News & Gossip:
Eplus3D just confirmed, it has over 100 systems installed in Europe. Which is not so great - but not terrible number, for a rather young (as an independent) Chinese company. It was announced together with the information, that Eplus3D is expanding its distribution channel in UK with AM Futures as its representative.
Sintavia secured a $10M subordinated debt investment from Stifel North Atlantic AM-Forward Fund. Funds will refinance equipment loans and boost working capital. This follows Sintavia’s $25M expansion.
Fraunhofer IAPT is launching a feasibility study on 3D-printed silicone seals to assess industrial viability. The study will evaluate AM technologies, material properties, and economic potential for complex or small-series production. Companies can participate, exploring benefits like design flexibility, decentralized manufacturing, and reduced reliance on traditional tooling. Who knows - maybe silicon finally find its way to 3D printing in any noticeable way?