New 3D printing tie-up aims to fill BASF gap in North America
Additive manufacturing specialist Forward AM is to work with RP America. The Iowa-based company will become Forward AM’s chief distributor in the North American market.
Forward AM, which was formerly the additive manufacturing division of BASF, relaunched independently last year.
BASF launched its original 3D Printing Solutions operation in 2017 after acquiring Dutch 3D filament manufacturer Innofil3D. The following year, the group also acquired Hamburg-based Advanc3D Materials, and French company Setup Performance.
Collectively, these businesses became BASF Forward AM in 2022 and brought Martin Back in as chief executive. Mr Back’s own-named turnaround company acquired this part of the BASF business in 2024 and relaunched it under the Forward AM name.
The company has now said that the winding down of BASF’s North American 3D printing business has led to its partnership with RP America.
Now, RP America will serve as Forward AM’s feet on the ground in that market, delivering support, technical expertise and solutions to customers in the US, Canada and Mexico. It will make Forward AM’s cutting-edge materials and solutions available to customers in those countries.
“This collaboration bridges the gap left by BASF’s exit,” Forward AM said, “ensuring customers continue to receive the high-quality products and services they have come to rely on.”
