3D Systems has proved that 2014 will be no less eventful as far as acquisitions are concerned.
The 3D printing industry juggernaut has struck a deal with leading provider of 3D modelling for the entertainment and toy industries, Gentle Giant Studios.
The company - which has been running for more than two decades - has led the development of cutting-edge content using 3D scanning technology and high-precision modelling to manufacture licensed 3D printed characters, toys and collectables from a variety of franchises with global brand recognition. Some of the characters produced have come from productions from Marvel and Disney, as well as models from the Harry Potter, Iron Man and Star Wars series, Hunger Games and Avatar.
The timing of this announcement is apt. 3D Systems is exhibiting at International CES 2014 in Las Vegas next week and has revealed it plans to leverage Gentle Giant Studio's technology and library of content into its consumer platform immediately. Moreover, 3D Systems will be extending existing brand relationships to further the reach of 3D scanning, modelling and 3D printing for entertainment, toys, collectables and figurines in conjunction with numerous blockbuster films and evergreen licensed properties.
CEO of 3D Systems Avi Reichental - who is the keynote speaker at the TCT + Personalize-sponsored 3D Printing conference track 'Don't Believe the Hype?' at CES - said: "Gentle Giant Studios catapults 3D Systems' consumer platform forward with highly curated, licensed characters, content publishing know-how and first-mover experience for the benefit of leading toy companies, movie studios and their merchandising divisions."
