Shaping the future of digitalisation

‘3D printing hub. How digitalisation is changing logistics’ – the motto emblazoning bayernhafen Gruppe’s booth at transport logistic hit the bull’s eye because digitalisation was THE theme of the trade show. Right in his opening speech, the Minister of Transport Alexander Dobrindt stressed the importance of digital transformation – logistics is “the key factor in ensuring the success of digitalisation.”

3D printing is one of the driving forces behind digital transformation “because it will bring about lasting change to manufacturing processes and logistics chains,” says Joachim Zimmermann, Chief Executive Officer of bayernhafen Gruppe. “For example, printer farms could be established at port locations and the distribution of locally produced replacement parts would only involve regionally-based transportation. This would take pressure off our overflowing motorways. Additionally, the raw materials used in 3D printing could become the bulk goods of the future for inland waterway and rail.”

This vision of the future was the reason why bayernhafen Gruppe installed a 3D printer at its booth that printed small busts of its visitors. “This individualised approach to data and, hence, the printed item is one of the benefits of additive manufacturing,” said Joachim Zimmermann. “Having their own bust printed allowed the visitors to our booth to personally take advantage of this benefit. We look forward to joining forces with our customers and partners to shape the future of digitalisation.”