Business Chief Europe Magazine March 2017 | Page 157

TECHNOLOGY that we have started to 3D print components for our own printers ,” Schmitz says . “ There is no reason why we can ’ t print plastic components and when we started to change the design of those plastics , it has helped us to realise strong cost savings . We believe this can change the way manufacturing is done in the world , and HP is in a position to lead the growth of this . We are partnering with companies in sectors such as automotive , fashion and chemicals to explore opportunities and speed up this development .”
It is innovation in areas such as subscription printing and 3D printing technology that will allow
HP to maintain its global marketleading status , with Schmitz determined to deliver this at a sustainable cost and at speed .
He adds : “ The quicker and cheaper we can develop this , the more we can increase volumes and make it a profitable venture . We did this with thermal inkjet printers decades ago , and we can disrupt the market again .”
Continual innovation in the supply chain will be key to enabling HP to further improve customer satisfaction levels in the months and years to come , maintaining a competitive advantage not only for itself but also its network of partners around the world . www . hp . com 157