3D Metalforge signs deal with Intercast to expand into Australian market
The 18-month deal authorises Intercast to promote 3D Metalforge’s products and services to its Australian customers.
Additive manufacturing company 3D Metalforge (ASX: 3MF) has signed a channel partner agreement with Perth-based non-ferrous foundry Intercast Australia as part of its strategy to expand into the Australian market.
The initial 18-month deal authorises Intercast to promote 3D Metalforge’s products and services to its customers in Australia including tier one companies BGC, Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN), Water Corporation, Bradken and RCR Mining Technologies.
In return, 3D Metalforge will provide sales, marketing, and technical training to the Intercast team.
Intercast produces hard-wearing, long-lasting bronze and aluminium components on demand for the mining, excavating, quarrying, marine and general engineering industries.
Important partnership
3D Metalforge managing director Matthew Waterhouse said the Intercast collaboration establishes an important channel partnership which will enable the company’s expansion.
“Australia is a key market in our strategic expansion, and we are extremely pleased to collaborate with Intercast and grow our full service additive manufacturing model in the country,” he said.
“Intercast has over 30 years’ experience with a strong sales network and market penetration, and together we are well-positioned to offer customers a point of difference.”
Rising market interest
The deal coincides with rising market interest in 3D printing of metal parts and components.
“The 3D printing industry has matured as a result of global supply chain challenges from the pandemic, and companies are looking at alternative solutions to reach [supply chain] efficiencies such as additive manufacturing,” Mr Waterhouse said.
“It also works alongside long-term sustainability targets that many companies are adopting, as additive manufacturing is able to reduce material waste by up to 90% and reduce inventory and storage costs.”
Preliminary discussions
3D Metalforge is progressing preliminary discussions with other Australian-based companies which may be considering additive manufacturing as a solution to bypass sustainability challenges following the rise in global shipping costs and transportation delays and as part of their longer-term sustainability goals.
Subject to the successful progress of the Intercast channel partnership, Mr Waterhouse said the two companies will likely pursue further collaborations.