Shapeways is making a strong comeback with a refreshed leadership team and a renewed commitment to its customers.
After declaring bankruptcy in July 2024, Shapeways is being reimagined under the guidance of a new management team, including members from the profitable Eindhoven facility and two of the company’s original founders. This revival aims to redefine Shapeways’ role as a leader in the digital manufacturing industry.
A New Chapter with Familiar Faces
The leadership team, which has acquired Shapeways’ assets in both the Netherlands and the U.S., now operates under the company’s original name, leveraging the Eindhoven production facility to serve its global customer base.
The team includes:
- • Marleen Vogelaar, CEO – Co-founder and former COO/CFO of Shapeways (2007–2014).
- • Jules Witte, COO – Long-time Shapeways team member and former Plant Manager.
- • Robert Schouwenburg, CTO – Co-founder and former CTO (2007–2012).
- • Job van de Laar, Plant Manager – Joined Shapeways in 2019.
- • Tiago São José, Head of Engineering – Shapeways veteran since 2012.
CEO Marleen Vogelaar shared her vision:
“When I helped to launch Shapeways in 2008, it was at the forefront of democratizing access to digital manufacturing. This new chapter is about building a pragmatic, financially sustainable company that continues to provide exceptional service to our users.”
COO Jules Witte added:
“Acquiring the Shapeways brand is a milestone, but it’s just the beginning. We are committed to producing high-quality parts and exploring new opportunities for our customers.”
Core Services and Technologies
Shapeways will continue to offer a robust portfolio of 3D printing technologies, materials, and post-processing options, enabling the production of high-quality parts for a diverse range of industries.
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Key offerings include:
- • 12 Additive Manufacturing Technologies: Tailored to meet varied industrial needs.
- • Material and Finish Variety: From engineering-grade materials to aesthetic finishes.
- • Custom and Standard Quality Controls: Flexibility to match customer requirements.
The company remains dedicated to serving industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical technology, and architecture, adhering to global standards like ISO:9001, IATF 16949, and ISO 14001.
Customer-Focused Adjustments
While some features, like the marketplace and shops, cannot be reinstated due to data losses during bankruptcy, the new leadership is actively working on solutions for the community. Importantly, user-owned intellectual property (IP), such as model data, remains with users and was not part of the bankruptcy sale.
Manuevo accounts and associated model data will be accessible through the Shapeways platform going forward, ensuring continuity for many long-term customers.
A Strong Foundation for the Future
Operating from its original Eindhoven base, Shapeways is leveraging its legacy and expertise to reestablish itself as a global leader in digital manufacturing. The company aims to be a critical partner in the supply chains of its customers, enabling small- to medium-volume production with speed, reliability, and sustainability.