Retail giant Walmart is making a bold move into innovative construction by embracing 3D printing technology. Partnering with Alquist 3D, based in Greeley, Colorado, Walmart has constructed an expansion at its Athens, Tennessee retail location using cutting-edge 3D printing methods. This initiative marks a significant step for Walmart and the broader retail industry, showcasing the potential of 3D printing beyond typical consumer applications like desktop 3d Printer Walmart might eventually consider stocking.
The expansion, a nearly 8,000-square-foot, 20-foot-high addition to the store’s online pickup and delivery area, was detailed in a news release on September 10. This project represents Walmart’s first large-scale utilization of 3D printing in construction and stands as one of the largest freestanding commercial concrete 3D-printed structures in the United States. Walmart emphasizes that the adoption of 3D construction printing aligns with their overarching commitment to environmental responsibility, leveraging advanced technology to enhance customer experience, and accelerating construction timelines. This forward-thinking approach could inspire consumers and businesses alike to explore the possibilities of 3D printing solutions, even for everyday needs, envisioning a future where even a 3d printer walmart shopper might consider for home use becomes commonplace.
Mike Neill, Vice President of New Construction for Walmart, highlighted Alquist 3D’s expertise in 3D materials and robotics as a key factor in their selection for this ambitious project. “Walmart is continuously seeking innovation and exploring emerging technologies, and we evaluated numerous novel building methods and companies for this endeavor,” Neill stated in the release. This willingness to experiment with new technologies demonstrates Walmart’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and potentially integrating even more 3D printed solutions into their operations, further bridging the gap between industrial applications and consumer awareness of 3D printing, perhaps even influencing future decisions about offering a 3d printer walmart customers can purchase.
While commercial 3D-printed buildings are still relatively uncommon, with building codes sometimes posing challenges as noted by Patti Harburg-Petrich, Principal at Buro Happold, the sector is gaining momentum. Last year, WSP, a Canadian builder, announced research into new applications for 3D printed concrete, spanning infrastructure to clean energy projects. Markus Wernli, Vice President of the maritime division at WSP in the U.S., commented on the expanding reach of the technology, stating, “The technology is impacting the housing sector and its reach is expected to eventually expand into heavy infrastructure… The use of 3DPC will first grow in less challenged structural and non-structural components before finding application in components for large infrastructure.” These developments signal a growing confidence in 3D printing within the construction industry, mirroring Walmart’s pioneering step.
Beyond terrestrial applications, 3D printing is also being explored for space construction. Turner, in collaboration with AI SpaceFactory, is testing the viability of off-world 3D printing here on Earth. This exploration into extreme environments further underscores the versatility and potential of 3D printing technology.
Walmart’s adoption of 3D printing for this expansion is more than just a construction project; it’s a statement about the future of retail and construction. By embracing innovative technologies like 3D printing, Walmart is not only enhancing its operational efficiency and sustainability but also signaling to consumers and the industry that they are at the forefront of technological advancement. This move could pave the way for wider acceptance and exploration of 3D printing across various sectors, potentially influencing consumer markets and even sparking interest in making 3d printer walmart a search term for home and business users alike in the years to come.
