3D printing impacts on South African third party logistic service providers

Abstract

Technology is the driver of industry innovations. One disruptive innovation that has implications for third party logistic (3PL) service providers is the technology of 3D printing. 3D printing enables manufacturers to produce their product at geographically remote areas no longer needing a 3PL service provider to move and warehouse products. This could result in many current services as offered by 3PLs to manufacturers, being changed. A qualitative case study methodology, to explore the implications of 3D printing for a South African 3PL provider, was employed. The research findings indicated that 3D printing impacts must be considered in terms of adaptive strategies by 3PLs if competitive advantages and customer service are to be assured in the future.