MakerBot Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

The acquisition of MakerBot by Ultimaker marks a significant milestone in the 3D printing industry. This merger aims to accelerate innovation and expand the global adoption of desktop 3D printing solutions. By combining their resources, the new entity, UltiMaker, is poised to offer a comprehensive ecosystem of hardware, software, and materials, enhancing accessibility and usability for a wide range of applications.

What Is MakerBot?

Founded in 2011, MakerBot specializes in 3D printing solutions tailored for educational environments. Its core products include various 3D printer models like the Sketch and Method series, along with software tools such as CloudPrint and UltiMaker Cura. MakerBot differentiates itself by offering a comprehensive ecosystem dedicated to education, featuring extensive resources, certification programs, and robust support services. This focus on education ensures that both teachers and students can effectively integrate 3D printing into their curricula.

Who Acquired MakerBot?

UltiMaker is a leading provider of professional 3D printing solutions, known for empowering innovation across various industries. Their key products include the Factor, S, Method, and Sketch series of 3D printers, along with high-performance materials and software like UltiMaker Cura, Digital Factory, and CloudPrint. UltiMaker holds a strong market position, recognized for its reliable and innovative solutions used by top designers and engineers worldwide, underscoring its significant influence in the 3D printing industry.

When Was MakerBot Acquired?

Ultimaker acquired MakerBot on September 13, 2022. This merger occurred during a period of rapid growth and innovation in the 3D printing industry, reflecting a broader trend towards consolidation and strategic partnerships. The combined entity, UltiMaker, aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to drive global adoption of desktop 3D printing solutions, aligning with the industry's push towards more accessible and user-friendly technologies.

Why Was MakerBot Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The merger between Ultimaker and MakerBot significantly broadens their market presence. The new entity, UltiMaker, will leverage a combined global footprint with sales and operations in the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions. Additionally, a planned cash investment of $62.4 million will fuel innovation and expansion into new markets.
• Technology Integration: The merger combines the technological strengths of both companies, creating a comprehensive ecosystem of 3D printing hardware, software, and materials. This integration includes well-established brands such as MakerBot METHOD®, MakerBot SKETCH®, and Ultimaker S5, along with software platforms like Ultimaker Cura and MakerBot CloudPrint™. This synergy aims to offer advanced solutions for a wide range of applications.
• Competitive Advantage: By merging, Ultimaker and MakerBot eliminate a competitor and strengthen their intellectual property position. The combined expertise and resources enable UltiMaker to accelerate the development of professional 3D printing solutions, maintaining a competitive edge in the market. The merger also positions the new entity to inspire responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices, further enhancing its market presence.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: The exact acquisition price is not publicly disclosed. However, NPM Capital will invest $15 million, and Stratasys will contribute MakerBot assets along with an additional $47 million.
• Payment Method: The transaction involves both cash investments and the transfer of assets. NPM Capital is investing $15 million in cash, while Stratasys is contributing MakerBot assets and an additional $47 million in cash.
• Key Conditions or Agreements:
  • The merger is subject to regulatory approvals and consultation with employee representative bodies.
  • NPM Capital will own 54.4% of the new entity, while Stratasys will own 45.6%.
  • Nadav Goshen and Jürgen von Hollen will serve as Co-CEOs, with Goshen managing operations and R&D, and von Hollen managing the commercial side.
  • The new entity, UltiMaker, will maintain headquarters in both The Netherlands and New York, USA.
  • The merger aims to combine the strengths of both companies to better compete in the desktop 3D printing sector.

Impact on MakerBot

The acquisition of MakerBot by Ultimaker has led to significant changes in operations and management. The newly formed entity, UltiMaker, will operate from both New York and The Netherlands, consolidating the operations of both companies. Nadav Goshen, the former CEO of MakerBot, will lead as the CEO of UltiMaker, while Jürgen von Hollen, the former CEO of Ultimaker, will assist with the integration before departing. This merger aims to streamline operations and amplify research and development efforts, ensuring a robust and innovative product pipeline.

Product offerings and services have also seen enhancements. UltiMaker will continue to provide a comprehensive range of 3D printing hardware, software, and materials, including popular models like MakerBot METHOD® and Ultimaker S5. The merger has been positively received by customers, who anticipate improved resources and accelerated innovation. However, employee reactions have been mixed, with some expressing concerns about potential corporate shifts. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing these processes compliantly, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.