Amsterdam-based 3D Hubs acquired by Protolabs for €272.1M; here’s what you need to know

In a recent development, Protolabs, a global technology-enabled digital manufacturing leader, has signed an agreement to acquire 3D Hubs for $280M (nearly €231M) in closing consideration and $50M (approx. €41.2M) subject to performance-based targets. 

Protolabs is a technology-enabled company that claims to produce custom components in as fast as one day with automated 3D printing, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and injection moulding processes. 

“The transaction creates the world’s most comprehensive digital manufacturing offer for custom parts, providing Protolabs with a network of manufacturing partners to fulfil a breadth of capabilities outside of its current envelope, as well as a broader offering of pricing and lead time options,” Protolabs mentions in a press release. 

About 3D Hubs

Amsterdam-based 3D Hubs is an online manufacturing platform that provides engineers with on-demand access to a global network of manufacturing partners. Users can easily upload their design, instantly receive a quote, and start production at the click of a button. Endeit Capital has been a shareholder of the company since early 2019.

“The entire 3D Hubs team is thrilled to join Protolabs and continue to revolutionise the manufacturing industry through innovation. At 3D Hubs, our goal is to empower companies to create revolutionary products through supply chain efficiency and reliability. We are confident that partnering with Protolabs will help us advance that mission,” says Bram de Zwart, co-founder and CEO at 3D Hubs.

Back in 2019, the company raised $18M Series C (nearly €14.9M) round led by Endeit Capital. Hearst Ventures, EQT Ventures, Balderton Capital, Arthur Kosten (founder of Booking.com) and Erik de Bruijn (founder of Ultimaker) also participated in this round. 

Endeit Exits

According to Endeit Capital, since then, “the company expanded the platform’s global network, opened offices in Berlin, Paris as well as Chicago and became a top 3 global player in its market segment. 3D Hubs now works with 240 premium manufacturing partners based across four continents, employs over 135 people and has served 35.000 businesses worldwide such as Amazon Robotics, Audi, HP, NASA, and Merck.”

Endeit Capital is a growth capital investment firm with offices in Amsterdam and Hamburg. It claims to provide growth capital typically between €3m – €10m to European internet companies with international growth potential. Its areas of focus include digital media & marketing, online commerce & services, edtech & mobile. 

“This exit follows the successful 2020 exit of Endeit Capital’s German portfolio company Gastrofix to the Canadian listed company Lightspeed,” mentions the Amsterdam-based investment firm.