Rapid manufacturer Proto Labs announced that it has closed on the purchase of select assets and operations of German-based manufacturer Alphaform, which significantly extends Proto Labs’ additive manufacturing capabilities across Europe. Alphaform is a service bureau headquartered in Feldkirchen (Munich). The acquisition includes Alphaform divisions operating in Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom. This acquisition will significantly expand Proto Labs’ recently launched additive manufacturing capabilities in Europe by adding selective laser sintering, direct metal laser sintering and additional stereolithography capabilities. The acquisition also includes the injection molding service currently offered by Alphaform Claho, in Eschenlohe, Germany. “We believe Alphaform will expand our share of the additive manufacturing market in Europe”, said Vicki Holt, Proto Labs Ceo. “This opportunity is also an ideal complement to our existing business”. Proto Labs’ existing European business includes injection molding, CNC machining and stereolithography services operating out of Telford, England. The purchase also gives Proto Labs a major presence in Germany, which is the largest single market for the company’s services in Europe.
