Basel, 14 June 2017: Straumann and Rapid Shape announced today that they have deepened the partnership formed earlier this year with the goal of accelerating the uptake of 3D printing technology in dentistry.

Straumann has purchased a 35% non-controlling stake in Rapid Shape for an undisclosed sum, enabling the latter to invest further in expanding development and production as well as its service footprint. The acquisition follows a non-exclusive distribution agreement, signed in March, allowing Straumann to supply Rapid Shape 3D-printers worldwide. At the same time, Rapid Shape will maintain its open business model of non-exclusive distribution partnerships.

Rapid Shape’s 3D printers enable dental labs to produce temporary prosthetic restorations, models and drill templates in certified precision for guided surgery, very quickly and efficiently. Further applications, including partial frameworks, bite splints and ortho models, can also be produced. The compact, reliable printers are simple and intuitive to operate and can print drill templates or temporaries in approximately 16 minutes.

Another key advantage is the open system approach, which allows customers to choose from a wide variety of certified materials from multiple suppliers. Straumann will sell the printers under its own brand, offering seamless connectivity with its validated digital workflow for tooth replacement.

Rapid Shape’s CEO Andreas Schultheiss commented “Straumann boosts our existing distribution network thanks to its large sales force, global presence and powerful brand. This partnership safeguards our independence as an entrepreneurial company and provides us with the means to continue developing the leading-edge additive manufacturing systems for dental labs and practices as well as for the hearing-aid and jewellery industries.”

According to industry intelligence, the installed base and output of dental 3D printers are expected to triple over the next five years.

Marco Gadola, CEO of the Straumann Group, added: “3D printing will have a key role in dentistry and it was essential for us to gain access to this technology quickly. Rapid Shape is a well-run, fast-growing entrepreneurial company with industry-leading expertise. Their quality, innovation and reliability fit perfectly with our philosophy and enable us to offer 3D printing as part of an exciting portfolio of integrated solutions”.

About Rapid Shape

Headquartered in Germany, Rapid Shape specializes in the development and manufacture of high-end 3D-printing systems for additive manufacturing. As an innovation-leader in the field, Rapid Shape’s printers are based on proprietary technology which sets standards in terms of speed, reliability and precision. Rapid Shape’s solutions are optimized for dentistry, hearing aid and jewellery applications. Precision, quality and a partnership-approach with its distribution, material and technology partners as well as extensive customer support are its hallmarks.

About Straumann

The Straumann Group (SIX: STMN) is a global leader in tooth replacement solutions that restore smiles and confidence. It unites global and international brands that stand for excellence, innovation and quality in tooth replacement and esthetics, including Straumann, Instradent, Neodent, and Medentika, etkon and other fully/partly owned companies and partners.

In collaboration with leading clinics, institutes and universities, the Group researches, develops, manufactures and supplies dental implants, instruments, CADCAM prosthetics, biomaterials and digital solutions for use in tooth replacement and restoration or to prevent tooth loss.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, the Group employs 3800 people worldwide and its products, solutions and services are available in more than 100 countries through a broad network of distribution subsidiaries and partners.