Velleman K8200
Electronics retailer Maplin has marked yet another first for 3D printing on the high street, as the company has announced that it will be selling its first 3D printer for £700.
The company has shipped stocks of Velleman K8200 printer kits to participating branches and they are set to go on sale in one week, but currently there is a month-long wait for deliveries of the gadget.
The K8200 can print objects measuring 20 cm sq from PLA and ABS filaments. The machine is a self-assembly model and is compatible with free RepRap software.
Maplin is not the only high street retailer to be dipping its toe in the 3D printing waters. Reprographics chain the Color Company is offering a 3D printing service at its Poland Street branch in London, while Staples customers in the Netherlands can experience the company’s 3D printing hub powered by Mcor Technologies and purchase 3D printers at some of the stationary giant's outlets.
Furthermore, UK grocery store juggernaut Tesco has clambered onto the 3D printing bandwagon, as it was revealed last month that the big-name brand could be selling 3D printers soon.