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Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Local Manufacturing: HP Positions for the Next Global Competitive Edge

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As global manufacturing faces unprecedented challenges, many small business owners are asking one critical question: How can we pivot to a more responsive, localized production model? The driving forces of recent disruptions—including COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and inflation—have compelled companies to reconsider traditional offshoring practices. According to industry experts, the answer might lie in embracing local manufacturing.

Local manufacturing is no longer just a strategic option; it has become essential for businesses looking to enhance flexibility and adaptability. By shifting production closer to home, companies can respond to market changes swiftly, tailor products to specific customer demands, and potentially reduce their carbon footprints. The landscape has evolved, and the need for a more resilient supply chain has never been more pressing.

At the forefront of this shift is additive manufacturing—technology that enables businesses to innovate and produce goods on demand. HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology exemplifies this trend, offering a fast, reliable, and efficient solution for manufacturers. This approach not only accelerates product development but also supports a simplified supply chain by allowing for customization without the heavy financial burden that typically accompanies traditional manufacturing processes.

One common misconception that holds small business owners back is the belief that additive manufacturing is prohibitively expensive. However, experts suggest that focusing on short-term costs overlooks the immense value that this technology can provide in the long run. Consider these financial considerations: Saving 8–12 weeks in product launch time; managing inventory more effectively to hedge against disruptions; and speeding up the response to custom orders from months to mere days. "Our job is not just to provide the tech; it’s to help procurement, operations, and design teams see and measure that value," an industry insider noted.

Real-world applications demonstrate the impact of this approach. Ocado, a grocery delivery service, redesigned its warehouse robots using HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology, producing over 300 components. As a result, the weight of the robots decreased by up to five times, installation times fell by 40%, and the company eliminated prolonged downtime with on-demand printing capabilities. Matt Whelan, Engineering Director at Ocado Technology, emphasized that this "all-in additive approach" allowed for significant weight reduction and efficiency gains.

Similarly, California-based Blue-White Industries transitioned from outsourcing to in-house additive manufacturing, utilizing HP’s technology to expedite production timelines and lower costs. "The strength of the printed parts lets us test designs under real-world loads, without having to invest in expensive tooling up front," explained Taylor Gledhill, Director of Marketing at Blue-White. This change supports agile, on-demand manufacturing that resonates with market needs.

Moreover, AGCO, a manufacturer of agricultural equipment, leveraged HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology to address supply chain volatility. By bringing operations in-house, AGCO achieved remarkable results, including reducing a prototype’s cost from $120,000 to just $3,200. "Additive manufacturing gives us the flexibility and speed that we need to adapt and solve problems quickly," shared Tim Millwood, AGCO’s Supply Chain Operations Officer.

Despite the tangible benefits of local manufacturing, challenges remain for small business owners. A prevalent mindset in the industry often prioritizes immediate cost savings over long-term gains. This can impede the transition to additive manufacturing and local production strategies. Business leaders must shift their focus from the price of individual parts to the total value offered by rapid production capabilities and supply chain resilience.

Agility in manufacturing is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. The market’s demands for speed and customization continue to grow, compelling businesses to rethink their operational strategies. At this pivotal moment, educating teams about the potential of additive manufacturing could unlock new pathways for success.

As manufacturers increasingly focus on sustainability and innovation, many are finding that additive manufacturing is not just a trend but a fundamental component of future competitiveness. HP remains dedicated to helping businesses design for agility, create effective production strategies, and harness long-term value. When companies choose to invest in local manufacturing, they set themselves up to thrive in an ever-changing market landscape.

For additional insights on a modern approach to manufacturing, explore HP’s Additive Manufacturing Solutions in depth at HP’s Industrial 3D Printers and Solutions. For further details on the shift towards local manufacturing, check out the original post here.

Image Via Envato: prathanchorruangsak

David Wilson
David Wilson
David Wilson is a technology writer and IT consultant with a passion for helping small businesses leverage digital tools for growth. With over 15 years of experience in software development and tech support, David specializes in simplifying complex tech concepts for business owners. He has contributed to several tech publications, sharing insights on cybersecurity, cloud computing, and emerging digital trends. David’s practical advice empowers entrepreneurs to make informed technology decisions. When he's not exploring the latest gadgets, David enjoys building model airplanes and perfecting his barbecue recipes.

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