3D printing already a threat to traditional spare parts supply chain

© Ben Bibikov

A good article in Forbes by Oliver Wyman on 3D printing and how it will affect manufacturing and logistics. But, instead of describing it as a threat to the logistics industry, it points to opportunities. “Logistics companies might be ideally placed to ride this wave of change, if they are willing to embrace the disruption as an opportunity to develop market-leading B2B services,” it says. But it also cautions: “Most manufacturing and logistics organisations, however, are taking a relaxed approach to 3D printing, thinking they still have time to adapt. That is becoming less true every year … Organisations that face potential disruption from 3D printing must start piloting, partnering, and investing soon if they want to be well positioned to capture future value.” You’ve been warned.