3D printing - factor or barrier for the development of express transport and supplies in the future
Author: Christian Krastev (UNWE - Sofia)
Keywords: 3D printing, additive manufacturing technology, express delivery, supply chain.
Maintaining high market share in the logistic business of express delivery services requires continuous monitoring of technologies and innovations' implementation in business sectors where the main contracting entities operate. Three-dimensional printing technology (3D printing) is using more actively in different manufacturing and service sectors, which reflects on the production process and supply chain in these sectors. Particularly relevant are the questions about changes in consumers' demands in the market of express delivery services according to the increased share of production using the new technology. In addition, interesting topics is the need of changes in the concept of logistics companies for express delivery, as well as the need to offer additional services within their portfolio in this regard. The main objective of this publication is to study the change in demand for express services in certain sectors while implementing 3D printing technology. The study proves that the demand for express services by enterprises using 3D printing technology for production will increase due to various changes that will occur in the supply chain.
