---
title: "Meet the leaders of the $12.3 billion global additive manufacturing market"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/meet-the-leaders-of-the-12-3-billion-global-additive-manufacturing-market/
date: 2025-07-30
modified: 2025-07-30
lang: en
author: "Davide Sher"
description: "Additive manufacturing has evolved significantly beyond its roots in prototyping to become a vital component of modern industrial production. From aerospace to healthcare, automotive to consumer goods, AM technologies are..."
categories:
  - "3D Printer Hardware"
  - "AM Industry Analysis and Market Data"
  - "Money & Funding"
  - "Trends 2026"
tags:
  - "Featured"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Top-AM-companies-AM-market-2025_2-@4x-640x386.jpg
word_count: 4339
---

# Meet the leaders of the $12.3 billion global additive manufacturing market

Additive manufacturing has evolved significantly beyond its roots in prototyping to become a vital component of modern industrial production. From aerospace to healthcare, automotive to consumer goods, AM technologies are now embedded in real-world workflows and supply chains. And while media coverage often zeroes in on company struggles, layoffs, or fluctuating stock prices, these headlines don’t tell the full story. The reality is that the AM industry, overall, continues to grow—sometimes more, sometimes less—but consistently, across all segments.

What’s often overlooked is just how broadly distributed that growth is. The AM industry isn’t dominated by a handful of large corporations—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. According to VoxelMatters’ new annual [Additive Manufacturing Market 2025 report,](https://www.voxelmatters.report/product/additive-manufacturing-market-report-2025/) the top 10 companies accounted for just 27% of total global revenues in 2024 (roughly $3.3 billion out of $12.3 billion). And even the top 50 together represented only 54%. That means nearly half the entire market is composed of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—companies that may not make headlines, but collectively drive innovation, specialization, and adoption in every corner of the industry. The [VoxelMatters AM market database](http://www.voxelmatters.directory) tracks 1,174 unique companies across hardware, materials, and services, highlighting the remarkable diversity of this industry.
> [![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/VoxelMatters-AM-Market-Report-2025-Spread-1.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.report/product/additive-manufacturing-market-report-2025/)According to VoxelMatters’ new annual Additive Manufacturing Market 2025 report, the global AM industry generated nearly $12.3 billion in revenue in 2024. We forecast that this figure will grow significantly to $108 billion by 2034, supported by a strong compound annual growth rate of 24.4%.
>
> In 2024, the core AM market—encompassing hardware, materials, and services—generated $12.3 billion in revenue, with hardware accounting for $5.5 billion, services for $4.3 billion, and materials for $ 2.4 billion.
Of course, SMEs face challenges too—not all thrive, and many struggle or fail. But the point is this: the headlines don’t tell the whole story. While the spotlight often falls on the largest companies—whether for missed targets, turbulent mergers, or for scaling back or divesting from AM—a vast ecosystem of smaller players is quietly expanding the industry.

With this in mind, in 2024, the core AM market—encompassing hardware, materials, and services—generated $12.3 billion in revenue, with hardware accounting for $5.5 billion, services for $4.3 billion, and materials for $ 2.4 billion. As AM becomes more embedded in the broader manufacturing value chain, its long-term growth trajectory remains strong, with projections pointing to more than $108 billion by 2034 and a CAGR of 24.4%.

At times, the media narrative swings between doom and gloom and overly optimistic hype. But the truth lies somewhere in between: the AM industry is growing steadily. What it needs now is focus and follow-through. Companies must continue to improve their technologies, validate applications, and expand their presence across sectors. The promise of additive manufacturing is real—and it’s not a matter of if we’ll get there, but when.

## Top companies: hardware still dominates

Most leading AM companies continue to generate the majority of their revenue from machine sales. While many also supply first-party (and in some cases third-party) materials or offer production services, hardware remains the cornerstone of the industry.

While SMEs make up nearly half the market and play a critical role in innovation and adoption, the direction of the industry is often shaped by its most visible players. The following top company profiles, **listed in random order**, highlight key companies whose technologies, strategies, and business models offer a window into where industrial-scale additive manufacturing is heading.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WhatsApp-Image-2025-04-16-at-21.29.17-1.jpeg)](https://my.demio.com/ref/jj2mnHovmz2SQari)Semiconductor applications are a major driver for 3D Systems' metal AM hardware. To learn more, click on the image and access the upcoming webinar hosted by VoxelMatters

#### 3D Systems ushering in industrial 3D printing

Founded in 1986, [3D Systems is recognized as the pioneer of the additive manufacturing industry](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/3d-systems/), having introduced the first commercial stereolithography (SLA) printer—the SL-1—in 1988. Currently, it ranks as the second-largest AM company by revenue, although its financial performance has declined in recent years. In 2024, 3D Systems reported revenue of $440 million, reflecting a 10% year-over-year drop and marking its weakest performance since 2012.

Over the years, the company has significantly expanded its technology base. Innovations such as material jetting (MJP) and Figure 4 (a high-speed DLP platform) were developed in-house. At the same time, technologies such as binder jetting and pellet extrusion have been acquired through various additions. Additionally, 3D Systems provides metal laser powder bed fusion systems, following its acquisition of Phenix Systems in 2013. More recent acquisitions—[Titan Robotics](https://www.voxelmatters.com/3d-systems-adds-lfam-technology-with-acquisition-of-titan-additive/) (pellet extrusion), [dp polar (rotational AM)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/3d-systems-accelerates-on-volume-am-with-acquisition-of-dp-polar/), and [Wematter](https://www.voxelmatters.com/sls-pioneer-3d-systems-acquires-low-cost-sls-company-wematter/) (desktop SLS)—further diversified its industrial AM portfolio. However, ongoing financial pressures continue to impact its outlook for 2025.

The company is also a major material provider, offering proprietary photopolymers, SLS powders, and dental resins through its 2017 acquisition of NextDent. Its solutions serve various industries, including healthcare, dental, aerospace, and consumer goods.

#### Bambu Lab achieves mass market material extrusion

Founded in 2020, [Bambu Lab](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/bambu-lab/) quickly gained attention in desktop FFF printing with the launch of the X1, which raised over $7 million on Kickstarter in just one month. The printer stood out for its fast print speeds, self-calibration, and ability to handle multiple materials—features that raised expectations for consumer 3D printing.

The company has since expanded its lineup with models like the P1, X1C, A1, A1 Mini, and the H2D (launched in 2025), which includes laser engraving. Bambu Lab is building an integrated platform that encompasses its own slicing software (Bambu Studio), filament production, and MakerWorld, a hub for downloadable 3D models. It is also developing generative design tools to simplify model creation. The company now has a strong following among both hobbyists and professionals. It competes directly with other major desktop FFF brands, including Prusa Research, Creality, and Elegoo, all of which have shaped the current landscape of the consumer and prosumer 3D printing market.

#### BLT's holistic approach to Metal AM

As the largest Chinese producer of metal additive manufacturing systems, [Bright Laser Technologies (BLT)](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/bambu-lab/) has established a significant global presence. The company manufactures laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) machines. It offers metal powders, along with engineering and production services, through extensive facilities and a fleet of hundreds of industrial systems. BLT serves various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and tooling, and is actively expanding its international partnerships. In 2024, BLT reported revenues of $171.4 million, reflecting a modest year-over-year growth of just 1.5%, a sharp decline from the 34% growth seen in 2023. The company currently supports approximately 2,800 clients worldwide.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Deuter_HILINE8_OECHSLER_3D_Carbon_3213024-2718-Hiline8_phosphor_black-D-01.jpg)Carbon's technology and materials have enabled a series of production applications that were previously thought impossible.

#### Carbon: high-speed VPP with DLS technology

[Based in Silicon Valley, Carbon](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/carbon3d/) has transformed photopolymer 3D printing[ through the introduction of Digital Light Synthesis (DLS)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/carbon-arkema-partner-adoption-digital-light-synthesis/). This process combines digital light projection with an oxygen-permeable membrane to rapidly produce isotropic, high-strength polymer parts. Co-founded by chemist Joseph DeSimone, Carbon’s innovation lies in developing reactive resins that combine the durability of thermosets with the quick-curing properties of UV polymers, enabling the efficient production of end-use parts.

Carbon’s platform has facilitated unique applications across various industries. Collaborations with Adidas, Riddell, and Specialized have resulted in high-performance midsoles, helmet liners, and cycling saddles. Recently, Carbon has ventured into other protective gear, including football gloves. While competitors are gaining ground, Carbon continues to lead in high-throughput, production-grade DLP systems, focusing on real-world performance and scalability.

#### Colibrium Additive takes GE across all metal powder beds

Formerly known as [GE Additive, Colibrium Additive was formed in 2016 after GE acquired two established metal AM companies: Concept Laser (L-PBF) and Arcam (EB-PBF)](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/ge-additive/). In 2024, following GE’s restructuring into three public companies, GE Additive became part of GE Aerospace and was rebranded as Colibrium Additive. While the AM division has faced numerous challenges over the past few years, GE's investments in AM, which occurred during one of GE's most difficult periods, coincided with the overall booming performance of the three public companies in the stock market which is still ongoing today. The company now offers a wide range of metal AM technologies, including laser powder bed fusion, electron beam melting, and metal binder jetting. The Concept Laser brand has been retired, and all products are marketed under the Colibrium name.

Closely integrated with GE’s own production, Colibrium platforms are widely used for end-use aerospace parts. Using metal L-PBF technology, GE Aerospace has produced tens of thousands of fuel nozzles and consolidated over 150 components into a single turbine center frame casing using additive manufacturing. In electron beam powder bed fusion (EB-PBF), one of the main recent highlights was [the 2024 release of the Spectra M system](https://www.voxelmatters.com/colibrium-additive-presents-spectra-m-ebm-solution-and-more-at-rapidtct/), while the H3 metal binder jetting system is still in the early phases of adoption. Colibrium’s materials division includes AP&C, a key supplier of aerospace-grade metal powders, such as titanium and nickel superalloys.

#### DMG MORI and the opportunity for hybrid AM (DED+CNC)

DMG MORI, a global leader in CNC machine tools, has established a strong presence in metal additive manufacturing through its LASERTEC line of directed energy deposition (DED) and hybrid (DED+CNC) systems. These machines integrate both additive and subtractive processes into a single platform, appealing to industries like aerospace and toolmaking that require geometric complexity and high precision.

The company’s involvement in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) began in 2016 with the acquisition of a 50.1% stake in Realizer, a German pioneer in metal AM. Realizer’s roots trace back to MCP Tooling Technologies, which is also the origin of SLM Solutions and Renishaw’s AM division, making it one of the earliest developers of commercial SLM systems. The first result of this collaboration was the LASERTEC 30 SLM, launched in 2017. Today, DMG MORI continues to advance both DED and LPBF technologies within its AM portfolio, leveraging its extensive global CNC customer base and positioning itself as one of the largest providers of industrial metal AM systems.

![Explore the growth of the global additive manufacturing market in 2024 and how it impacts various industries beyond traditional prototyping.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/OcchialiDaSoleDiorDIOR3DM1U11B0_3.jpg)Dior eyewear frames mass produced by Thelios using EOS SLS systems

#### EOS, the leader in metal and polymer LPBF

[EOS, based in Germany](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/eos/), is one of the most established names in additive manufacturing and a leader in both polymer and metal laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Founded by Dr. Hans J. Langer and Dr. Hans Steinbichler, the company launched Europe’s first selective laser sintering (SLS) system in 1994. Since then, it has installed over 5,000 polymer and metal LPBF machines worldwide, serving industries such as aerospace, medical, automotive, and consumer products.

In polymer AM, EOS’s SLS technology is widely used for high-performance applications and custom manufacturing. Notably, eyewear brands such as YOU MAWO, [Breezm, BRAGi,](https://www.voxelmatters.com/3d-printed-eyewear-a-global-phenomenon/) Hoet and [even Dior (LMVH) via Thelios](https://www.voxelmatters.com/how-thelios-is-3d-printing-thousands-of-dior3d-eyewear-frames-for-dior/), utilize EOS SLS systems to produce made-to-order frames from PA 2200. A joint study by Fraunhofer EMI and YOU MAWO found that these frames result in 80% less waste and 58% lower emissions compared to traditionally manufactured acetate frames.

![Explore the growth of the global additive manufacturing market in 2024 and how it impacts various industries beyond traditional prototyping.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Orbex_AMCM_4.jpg)In metal AM, EOS’s direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) systems—particularly the EOS M 400 series—are utilized by major aerospace companies for both prototyping and certified production. MTU Aero Engines manufactures critical engine components for Airbus platforms, while Relativity Space has employed EOS systems in early-stage rocket development. Honeywell Aerospace and [Boom Supersonic](https://www.voxelmatters.com/boom-supersonic-is-flying-at-the-speed-of-am/) are also among its key adopters.

EOS extends its capabilities through two key subsidiaries. [ALM (Advanced Laser Materials)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/eos-expands-portfolio-with-two-new-metal-am-materials/), acquired in 2009, develops high-performance composite selective laser sintering (SLS) powders—including carbon fiber- and flame-retardant-filled nylons—designed for demanding aerospace and defense applications. [AMCM, the company’s custom machine division](https://www.voxelmatters.com/amcm-and-its-custom-eos-machines-are-pushing-the-limits-of-metal-am/), produces large-format, multi-laser DMLS systems such as the M 4K and M 8K, which are used to manufacture copper alloy combustion chambers for spaceflight companies like Launcher, ArianeGroup, and Sintavia.

#### Farsoon, the EOS of China

Farsoon is one of only a handful of companies globally that specializes in both polymer and metal laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), with an open-platform model that sets it apart in China and internationally. A key differentiator for Farsoon is its leadership in large-format metal 3D printing. As of mid-2025, the company had installed over 150 “meter-scale” metal PBF systems worldwide. The FS1521M series—featuring up to 32 × 500W lasers and a 1530 × 1530 × 1650 mm build volume—is employed by customers such as Falcontech, which operates dozens of systems for high-volume titanium and copper alloy production.

Despite these strengths, Farsoon reported a 19% revenue decline in 2024, resulting in total earnings of $68 million, with profits down 49%. Like several Western incumbents, it faces pressure from newer Chinese players such as Kings 3D and Sooner, which are eroding its first-mover advantage. Nevertheless, the company continues to invest, opening a 140,000 sqm AM campus in Changsha and introducing features like beam shaping to enhance throughput and quality.

#### Formlabs and the rise of accessible SLA

[Boston-based Formlabs has evolved from an MIT spinout into a leading supplier of prosumer SLA systems](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/formlabs/), having sold over 130,000 printers since its inception. The company transformed desktop photopolymerization with its affordable, user-friendly SLA systems, including the Form 1, Form 2, and Form 3, [culminating in the launch of the Form 4 in 2024](https://www.voxelmatters.com/form-4-review-the-definitive-resin-3d-printing-experience-on-your-desktop/). These systems deliver high accuracy and a superior surface finish, supported by an integrated workflow that includes Form Wash, Form Cure, and automated post-processing tools.

[Formlabs entered the SLS market in 2021](https://www.voxelmatters.com/formlabs-fuse1-benchtop-sls-3d-printer-is-now-shipping/) and [expanded it in 2024 by acquiring Micronics](https://www.voxelmatters.com/formlabs-acquires-micronics/), a startup focused on making powder-bed fusion systems more accessible. The company now offers a comprehensive polymer AM ecosystem, complete with materials, software, and automation tools. It generates substantial recurring revenue through resin and powder sales for applications in dental, jewelry, prototyping, and small-batch production.

#### HP and high-speed polymer PBF for production

[HP entered additive manufacturing in 2016](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/hp-inc/) with its Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) platform, expanding into industrial polymer production. Leveraging its strengths in inkjet technology and digital manufacturing, MJF was designed as a high-throughput solution for short-run and bridge production. Since then, HP has rolled out several generations of MJF systems,[ most recently the 5400 and 5600 series](https://www.voxelmatters.com/3d-systems-introduces-faster-material-jetting-mjp-5600-3d-printer/), along with an expanding set of workflow automation tools, powder handling systems, and post-processing equipment. It has also adopted a service-oriented model, offering 3D-as-a-Service (3DaaS) packages that include automated material replenishment, maintenance, and usage analytics.

![Explore the growth of the global additive manufacturing market in 2024 and how it impacts various industries beyond traditional prototyping.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/1680x830_HP-DMN_2022-12-02-141452_qjmq.jpeg)

To support the production-scale adoption of MJF, [HP launched the Digital Manufacturing Network](https://www.voxelmatters.com/hp-am-trends-2021-forecast-sees-economic-growth-driven-by-digital-manufacturing-technologies/), a global alliance of certified service providers utilizing MJF for end-use part production. However, while initial growth was strong, recent adoption has slowed due to high ownership costs. The bankruptcy of SmileDirectClub in 2023—previously HP’s largest AM customer—also disrupted momentum. Despite these challenges, HP remains a significant player in industrial polymer AM, with increasing adoption in Asia, particularly among Chinese contract manufacturers. Its MetalJet platform, focused on metal binder jetting, is still in the early stages, but ongoing R&D and manufacturing partnerships position HP for long-term growth in both polymer and metal 3D printing.

## The UnionTech of hardware and service

[UnionTech, a leading industrial SLA 3D printing company](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/uniontech/) based in Shanghai, [has sold over 20,000 systems globally](https://www.voxelmatters.com/uniontech-has-sold-over-20000-industrial-sla-systems-to-date/), solidifying its role as a major player in the additive manufacturing market. Founded in 2000, the company supports industries such as aerospace, medical, and footwear with advanced 3D printing solutions and a complete technology ecosystem—including proprietary hardware, software like Polydevs and Unionfab ONE, and materials developed through its R&D division and subsidiary Synthestic.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Unionfab_E5_B7_A6800_E5_8F_B3600-scaled.jpg)

[Unionfab](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/unionfab/)[, UnionTech’s service arm](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/unionfab/), operates the world’s [largest fleet of production 3D printers, with nearly 800 industrial machines, including over 540 UnionTech SLA systems](https://www.voxelmatters.com/how-unionfab-has-built-the-worlds-largest-fleet-of-3d-printing-production-machines/). Its facilities span multiple technologies—SLS, SLM, FDM, MJF, DLP, PolyJet, and metal binder jetting—enabling flexible, high-volume manufacturing. Unionfab produces over 2 million parts annually for 80,000+ clients in 174 countries. Its fully digitalized mega-factories and strategic partnerships with Forward AM (now part of Stratasys) and Evonik make it a powerhouse in on-demand manufacturing, offering services from prototyping to large-scale production with fast turnaround and global reach.

#### Materialise, the AM service and AM software leader

[Materialise, headquartered in Belgium](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/materialise/), combines decades of experience in additive manufacturing with a strong software portfolio. Founded by Fried Vancraen in 1990, the company is one of the few top-tier players that focus primarily on AM services and software, rather than hardware. [Materialise went public in 2014 and reported total revenue of €266.8 million in 2024](https://www.voxelmatters.com/materialise-closes-fy2023-with-256-million-in-revenues-10-4/), reflecting a 4.2% increase from the previous year, driven by strong growth in its medical division.

The industrial AM operations are consolidated under the Materialise Manufacturing division, which reported €106.5 million (~$110 million) in revenue for 2024, representing a 3.4% decline from 2023. This division offers FFF, SLA, SLS, PolyJet, and MJF printing services across various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and consumer products. Materialise is particularly engaged in the growing 3D printed eyewear market, providing comprehensive solutions for mass customization, including design automation tools, facial scan integration, and scalable print workflows for frame production. While the widely used software suite, comprising Magics and Mimics, contributes significantly to revenue, software is not included in this market study.

#### Nano Dimension and the rise of future tech

[Nano Dimension](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/nano-dimension/) reported [$57.8 million in revenue for 2024, reflecting a 2.6% year-over-year increase](https://www.voxelmatters.com/nano-dimension-report-fy-2024-revenue-of-56-2m-22/). Its prominence here among leading additive manufacturing companies is largely attributed to an aggressive acquisition strategy, which includes companies such as Desktop Metal, Markforged, ExOne, ETEC, Fabrica, and Admatec/Formatec.

![Explore the growth of the global additive manufacturing market in 2024 and how it impacts various industries beyond traditional prototyping.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ataru-bottles.jpg)Following a significant internal restructuring, the company is focusing on two strategic areas: its core Additively Manufactured Electronics (AME) technology and an expanded portfolio of polymer, metal, and composite systems acquired through various purchases. The AME platform, centered on the DragonFly IV system, supports multi-material printing of electronic components using proprietary conductive and dielectric inks. Additionally, Nano Dimension operates NaNoS, a contract manufacturing service for AME parts and recently [introduced Ataru, a UV-curable, low-viscosity resin compatible with a wide range of DLP platforms](https://www.voxelmatters.com/nano-dimension-debuts-new-ataru-dlp-material/).

The technologies acquired, particularly from Markforged and Desktop Metal, remain crucial to Nano Dimension’s strategy. The company is working towards a unified software ecosystem, likely based on Markforged’s Eiger platform, while [both Markforged and Desktop Metal are currently undergoing internal strategic reviews](https://www.voxelmatters.com/julien-lederman-discusses-nano-dimension-post-merger-strategy/). Admatec and Formatec, acquired in 2022 to enhance capabilities in ceramic and metal DLP, filed for bankruptcy in early 2025 and were subsequently relaunched independently, marking Nano Dimension’s exit from that segment. Nano Dimension’s combined capabilities now cater to industries such as aerospace, defense, electronics, and medical, with a strategic emphasis on high-mix, low-volume production and functional, value-added components.

#### Nikon SLM Solutions, the large-format metal PBF company

[Nikon SLM Solutions](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/slm-solutions/), initially part of MCP Tooling Technologies and operating under the SLM Solutions name since 2011, was acquired by Nikon Corporation in 2022. Now integrated into Nikon’s Advanced Manufacturing division, the company develops large-format, multi-laser laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) systems for industrial metal additive manufacturing.

In 2024, [Nikon SLM reported €150 million in revenue, a 36% year-over-year increase](https://www.voxelmatters.com/nikon-slm-solutions-reports-revenues-of-150-million-in-2024-36/), and surpassed 1,000 installed systems worldwide. Its flagship system, the NXG XII 600, features 12 lasers and an exchangeable build cylinder, targeting the production of complex parts in materials such as titanium, Inconel, and aluminum alloys.

The company’s platforms are widely used in aerospace and defense by companies such as Safran Landing Systems, Bosch, Lockheed Martin, Rocket Lab, and ATI, which selected the NXG 600E—offering a 1.5-meter Z-height—for applications in naval propulsion and hypersonics. In 2025, ArianeGroup collaborated with Nikon SLM to develop metal components with build volumes exceeding one cubic meter for its space launch systems.

Since the acquisition, Nikon has expanded SLM’s manufacturing and support capabilities, including U.S.-based production of NXG systems and new technology centers in California and Japan. [Nikon AM Synergy, formerly known as Morf3D, serves as Nikon’s U.S.-based center for secure aerospace and defense additive manufacturing programs](https://www.voxelmatters.com/nikon-rebrands-morf3d-into-nikon-am-synergy/). Reorganized in 2024, it focuses on deploying laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) technologies, supported by in-house expertise in metallurgy, qualification, and metrology.

#### Stratasys, through ups and downs, the polymer AM leader

[Stratasys](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/stratasys/), founded in 1989 by FDM inventor Scott Crump, has maintained a significant role in industrial polymer 3D printing. Its 2012 merger with Objet Geometries introduced PolyJet material jetting to its technology portfolio, expanding its market presence in the medical, dental, and prototyping sectors.[ In 2024, Stratasys reported $572.5 million in revenue, an 8.8% decline from $627.6 million the previous year](https://www.voxelmatters.com/stratasys-reports-stable-fy-2023-revenues-of-627-6-million/), but it continues to be one of the most diversified additive manufacturing providers focused exclusively on polymers.

The company offers a variety of technologies, including FDM, PolyJet, SAF (Selective Absorption Fusion), SLA, and high-speed DLP. It is also a significant materials supplier, bolstered by the 2023 acquisition of Covestro’s AM unit, which added over 60 high-performance materials across extrusion, photopolymer, and powder-bed platforms. Recently, [Stratasys acquired assets from Nexa3D](https://www.voxelmatters.com/stratasys-acquires-assets-from-nexa3d/), incorporating high-speed DLP and extrusion technologies that enhance its Origin platform. This move aligns with Stratasys’s focus on more open materials strategies, particularly in FDM and photopolymer workflows.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/unionfab-factory-1.jpg)A view of the the Unionfab factory.

## Key trends in polymer AM

Polymer additive manufacturing continues to lead the AM market in overall value, generating $7.4 billion in revenue in 2024. Driven by a wide range of industrial and consumer applications, the segment is projected to reach $46 billion by 2034, growing at a 20.1% compound annual growth rate.

While many of the top players in this segment—Stratasys, 3D Systems, EOS, Formlabs, and HP—have been discussed earlier, their continued innovation across extrusion, powder bed fusion, and photopolymer platforms is central to polymer AM’s long-term growth. In parallel, service providers and newer entrants are playing an increasingly important role in scaling up production and expanding the scope of addressable applications.

Other top companies not already discussed include [Kings 3D Printing](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/kings-3d/), a versatile AM hardware company in China offering a diverse range of 3D printing equipment. Its technology portfolio includes SLA, SLS, FGF (pellet-based LFAM), and metal AM processes, such as L-PBF and DED, enabled through its acquisition of Lasertec. The company is carving out a niche with flexible service models and custom equipment solutions, particularly in the shoe, dental, and automotive sectors. Also notable is [Prusa Research, ](https://www.voxelmatters.com/can-a-prusa-3d-printer-print-peek/)[a pioneer in European desktop FFF with a loyal prosumer base and growing industrial ambitions](https://www.voxelmatters.com/can-a-prusa-3d-printer-print-peek/). Among other things, Prusa operates one of the largest [material extrusion 3D printer farms in the world.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/the-rise-of-3d-printer-farms/)

![Explore the growth of the global additive manufacturing market in 2024 and how it impacts various industries beyond traditional prototyping.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Prusa_HT90_50-3.jpg)A lane of the Prusa 3D printer farm.

## Key trends in metal AM

Metal additive manufacturing followed closely, with $4.7 billion in 2024 revenue. Supported by strong adoption in sectors such as aerospace, energy, and healthcare, the segment is on track to grow to nearly $60 billion by 2034, at a projected CAGR of 29%.

Larger, more efficient laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) systems remain the primary production method, with Chinese hardware manufacturers gaining visibility in global markets. At the same time, alternative processes such as wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) and cold spray are gaining traction—especially in applications where reducing part cost and scaling up size are key requirements. While binder jetting and bound metal processes have yet to reach widespread adoption, they continue to evolve, opening the door to more flexible and scalable workflows.

The leading players in this segment—such as EOS, Nikon SLM, BLT and DMG MORI—have already been profiled above.

## Key trends in ceramic AM

Ceramic additive manufacturing, while still the smallest material segment by revenue, generated more than $166 million in 2024. As a result, companies leading the ceramic AM sector do not appear among the top overall market leaders; however, their impact on this niche segment is significant. Ceramics AM is also the fastest-growing category, projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate of 31.2%. Growth is driven by the increasing demand for high-performance applications in sectors such as semiconductors, medical devices, aerospace, and electronics, where ceramics offer unique advantages in terms of thermal stability and chemical resistance.
> ![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/bac_insulation_sleeve_res_1984x1116-780x470.jpg.avif)Serial ceramic medical parts produced by Bosch Advanced Ceramics.
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> Ceramics AM is [also] the fastest-growing category, projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate of 31.2%.
Vat photopolymerization continues to account for the majority of system sales, with digital light processing (DLP) leading the way in high-precision applications, followed by laser stereolithography (SLA) for denser parts made from materials such as zirconia, alumina, and silicates. Binder jetting is steadily expanding—particularly for silicon carbide—while material extrusion is regaining traction as an affordable entry point for technical ceramics. Material jetting remains a niche but evolving solution, gradually finding footholds in industrial settings.

Although ceramic AM remains highly specialized, a small group of companies has emerged as leaders in both revenue and technical capability. Among them, [Lithoz has built a strong reputation for its Lithography-based Ceramic Manufacturing (LCM) technology](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/lithoz/), enabling the production of dense, high-precision parts. Based in Austria, Lithoz focuses on materials such as alumina, zirconia, and tricalcium phosphate, with systems widely used in dental, aerospace, and biomedical applications where accuracy and material performance are critical.

In France, [3DCeram Sinto has adopted a different approach with SLA-based ceramic printing](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/3dceram/). Its technology supports the production of intricate technical ceramics, often for use in medical and aerospace applications. The company also offers post-processing and customization services, positioning it as a full-solution provider for clients with specific performance or regulatory needs.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Lithoz_Freisteller_09_2024_CeraFab_S320_Rechts_offen1-cropped-150x150.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Lithoz_Freisteller_09_2024_CeraFab_S320_Rechts_offen1-cropped.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Design-sans-titre-26-150x150.webp)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Design-sans-titre-26.webp)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/iLaser_CeraBuilder160Pro_ceramics_3D_printing5-150x150.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/iLaser_CeraBuilder160Pro_ceramics_3D_printing5.jpg)

China’s iLaser is rapidly gaining traction with its high-precision, laser-based ceramic systems. Designed for microfabrication and complex prototyping, these machines are increasingly utilized in electronics and optics, where fine detail and dimensional accuracy are crucial. The company’s growing role in domestic and international markets reflects a broader demand for specialized ceramic components in high-tech applications.

Nano Dimension, while more diversified in scope, expanded its ceramic AM capabilities through acquisitions of ExOne and Desktop Metal, offering binder jetting for complex, high-performance parts in sectors like catalysis, filtration, and semiconductors. However, as of this week, [Desktop Metal filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy](https://www.voxelmatters.com/nano-dimension-subsidiary-desktop-files-files-for-bankruptcy/), despite being acquired under court order last year. Nano Dimension now plans to sell off assets to address liabilities.

Rounding out the group is [Bosch Advanced Ceramics](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/bosch-advanced-ceramics/), which draws on Bosch’s extensive background in materials science and engineering. The company produces custom ceramic parts for use in electronics, mobility, and energy systems, focusing on durability, thermal stability, and precise electrical insulation. Its work reflects a growing interest in ceramics as functional components in demanding environments.