3D printing stalwart Formlabs confirms ‘small number’ of layoffs

Formlabs confirms layoffs of less than 40 of its 750 employees, while expanding and investing in R&D.

: Formlabs has laid off fewer than 40 employees out of nearly 750 over the past two years. This MIT spinoff continues to expand, especially in SLS technology, and heavily invests in R&D. Despite the layoffs, Formlabs remains a leader in the additive manufacturing market.

Formlabs has confirmed reducing its workforce by less than 40 employees from a total of just under 750 over the past two years. This reduction has occurred in waves, with the most recent layoffs happening only weeks ago. According to a spokesperson, the layoffs were part of routine evaluations aimed at maintaining efficiency and supporting growth in other areas of the business.

Notwithstanding these cutbacks, Formlabs has been a key player in the 3D printing market, notably by introducing high-precision SLA (Stereolithography) to desktop printing. Originally dominated by FDM (fused deposition modeling) printers, Formlabs' technology uses light to transform resin into high-resolution structures. The company's ability to survive the initial 3D printing bubble, along with its ongoing innovation, sets it apart from earlier competitors.

Formlabs has recently ventured into SLS (selective laser sintering) technology with its Fuse line, reportedly shipping over 50% of all SLS units globally. The company also bolstered its portfolio with the acquisition of the startup Micronics. Despite the challenges in scaling 3D printing for manufacturing, Formlabs remains focused on high-volume solutions and specializes in the medical and dental sectors for customized applications, driving its growth and continued market leadership.

LayoffsSLS technology3D printing