How 3D Printing Transforms Existing Business Models: A Literature Review

This study explores the transformative impact of 3D printing technology on existing business models. Through a comprehensive literature review, the research identifies how 3D printing reshapes core business model elements, value creation, value capture, and value proposition, by facilitating customization, enabling decentralized production, and simplifying supply chains. A conceptual framework is presented to map the unique characteristics of 3D printing (e.g., additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and digital transferability) to these business model elements, providing a roadmap for understanding the interplay between technological innovation and strategic adaptation. The findings suggest that while 3D printing offers firms greater flexibility and innovation potential, challenges such as high initial costs, slower production speeds, and regulatory concerns require continuous strategic adaptation. This review contributes to the emerging literature on the economic implications of 3D printing by highlighting the need to align technological advancements with dynamic business models to secure sustained competitive advantage. Future research should employ empirical investigations to deepen understanding of 3D printing’s impact across diverse industrial contexts. In addition to operational impact, 3DP enables strategic positioning options for firms to support hybrid approaches that combine cost leadership with differentiation through personalisation. This evolution reflect digitalisation, which requires firms to rethink traditional business assumptions. Furthermore, the integration of 3DP with other digital technologies, such artificial intelligence, may create even greater disruptions to business models in an area that requires further exploration. The framework proposed in this study offers a foundation for such future inquiry.