Growing Demand for 3D Printers in Electronics Retailers: In-Store Trends and Expanding User Base [APPLE TREE Inc.]

APPLE TREE Inc. (Headquarters: Osaka, Japan; President: Hideaki Park) reports on the sales trends of 3D printers in electronics retail stores based on interviews with store personnel. In recent years, interest in 3D printers has expanded from professional users such as engineers and creators to general consumers. Electronics retail stores provide an environment where customers can consult with staff while viewing actual machines, leading to an increase in new user demographics. Previously, 3D printers were primarily used by experienced users or those familiar with manufacturing. However, over the past year, there has been a noticeable shift in the customer base. According to store personnel, there has been an increase in inquiries regarding purchases for children and interest from families. Additionally, customers browsing the store are becoming interested in 3D printers, and some are visiting specifically to see the displays, creating a trend where in-store discovery leads to purchases. Currently, some Bic Camera stores feature live demonstrations of FLASHFORGE 3D printers. The Adventurer 5M is on display at Bic Camera Yurakucho, and the Adventurer 5M Pro is at the Ikebukuro Camera and PC store. Plans are also underway for the Bic Camera Namba store, which is expected to expand opportunities for customers in the Kansai region to interact with the machines. The ability to check the actual product size and modeling samples helps beginners deepen their understanding. Many questions regarding basic usage are being asked at the stores, such as 'What can I make?', 'Is it easy for beginners?', and 'How do I prepare the data?'. While many feel it is 'easier than expected' after explanations, the current user base still tends to be those with some understanding of 3D data. Among the 3D printers handled in stores, FLASHFORGE products are highly regarded for their balance of price and performance, making them easy to recommend to first-time users. As perceptions of price ranges change, more customers feel that adoption is more accessible than they initially thought. In addition to the printers themselves, demand for peripherals such as filaments and filament drying boxes is also growing. These are consumable and related products used continuously, indicating that 3D printers are becoming practical tools. Moving forward, APPLE TREE will strengthen the provision of easy-to-understand information through beginner-focused content, case studies, in-store events, demonstrations, and social media to help more people utilize 3D printers. The company aims to expand its new user base by leveraging both physical retail stores and online channels.