3D Printing in Supply Chains—Benefits, Challenges, and Future Directions

Kamrul Ahsan () and Shams Rahman
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Kamrul Ahsan: RMIT University, Department of Supply Chain and Logistics Management, College of Business and Law
Shams Rahman: East West University

Chapter Chapter 2 in The Palgrave Handbook of Supply Chain and Disruptive Technologies, 2025, pp 25-71 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract Three-dimensional (3D) printing is widely recognised as a disruptive technology with the potential to revolutionise the management of existing supply chains (SCs). This chapter explores the benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of 3D printing and evaluates its effect on SCs, encompassing the sourcing, production, distribution, and consumption of goods. A systematic literature review of academic journal articles pertaining to 3D printing, additive manufacturing and supply chain management was conducted and 139 articles were identified with relevant content. The research indicates that 3D printing offers significant benefits to SCs, including simplified and more flexible supply chain processes, shorter lead times by bringing manufacturing closer to consumers, opportunities for mass customisation benefits, and reduced carbon footprint. The main challenges of 3D printing in SCs are the new skills required for the new technology, the high cost of printers, and adaptation challenges of new supply chain structure. By synthesising the current research, this study has identified the 3D printing research trends and developed framework to conceptualise SC challenges and impacts of 3D printing manufacturing, which will assist 3D printing manufacturers to redesign their SCs within the new manufacturing set-up. It is envisaged that the research findings will significantly support advanced manufacturing to redesign their SC structure because of the disruptive impact of 3D printing.

Keywords: 3D Printing; Supply chain management; Benefits and challenges; Literature review (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-90210-9_2

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