According to Juniper Research, the sale of consumer 3D printers is expected to pass 1 million units in 2018. As of 2014, the number of units sold to consumers stands at 44,000. The entry of established printing vendors in this space is expected to spur the adoption of 3D printing gear over the next 5 years. Pricing for this equipment is also expected to change to more attractive options for consumers. The market for 3D printers is also projected to grow in step with the widening applicability for this equipment. The long-term success of 3D printing is however pegged on creating public awareness. Currently, 3D printing largely caters for novelty applications.
