Reflecting on METSTRADE and Formnext: A new era for AM

The past week has been a milestone period for Royal3D, with back-to-back appearances at METSTRADE and Formnext - two events that highlight very different industries, yet revealed the same clear trend: the world is ready for large-scale additive manufacturing.

Momentum Across Sectors

At METSTRADE, the enthusiasm from the maritime sector was unmistakable. Visitors arrived not just with curiosity but with concrete challenges and implementation plans. Shipyards, designers, and engineers were exploring additive manufacturing as a practical tool for today’s production rather than just as a concept for the future.

Formnext amplified that momentum. Across four days in Frankfurt, the conversations were more focused, more technical, and more immediate than ever before. Together with CEAD, we showcased how the combination of large-scale AM, responsible material usage, feasibility, sustainability, and strong end-use performance is shifting the way companies think about production.

A Clear Shift in the Market

Whether speaking with engineers, rethinking supply chains, or manufacturers exploring circular models, one message kept resurfacing at both events: industries are moving from exploration to implementation.

The questions we received weren’t about “if” large-scale 3D printing fits but “how soon can we integrate it?”

This shift, happening across maritime, industrial, and advanced manufacturing sectors, reinforces what we’ve been seeing in our own projects: additive manufacturing is not just evolving, it’s professionalizing.

Community, Collaboration, and Next Steps

Beyond the technology showcases, both events reminded us of the power of community. From reconnecting with industry peers to meeting new partners, the energy and support across both METSTRADE and Formnext highlighted the growing ecosystem around advanced production.

As we close this chapter of the year, we’re more confident than ever that large-scale additive manufacturing is entering its next stage, becoming more grounded, scalable, and ready to transform real applications.

Visit Us

Want to learn more about how Royal3D approaches large-scale AM and circular production?
Visit our production office and discover how we’re helping companies shape the future of manufacturing.