3Ding (Reddx)

3Ding (Reddx)

In a journey that began in 2013, 3Ding has transformed the 3D printing landscape in India by making this cutting-edge technology accessible and affordable. Founded by Surendranath Reddy, a college dropout with a vision to democratize 3D printing, 3Ding has grown to become the largest manufacturer of 3D printers in India, with over 1000+ printers sold and a client list that includes Renault Nissan, Saint Gobain, Philips, and ISRO. By offering a range of 3D printing solutions and services, 3Ding is not just building a business but fostering innovation and creativity across industries and educational institutions. With a team of 35 members and operations in Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, 3Ding is at the forefront of India's 3D printing revolution.
Key Details
City
Chennai
Founded In
2013
Founders
Surendranath Reddy
Category
healthtech
Website
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3Ding (Reddx) - Company Foundation Story

Vision and Early Days

3Ding, a part of ReddX Technologies, was founded with a clear vision to transform the 3D printing industry in India. The company's early days were marked by a bold step into the relatively new field of 3D printing. Surendranath Reddy, the founder and CEO, had a simple yet powerful idea: to make 3D printing accessible and affordable for everyone, especially school and college students[5].Reddy's journey began when he dropped out of Anna University, where he was pursuing engineering in Electronics & Communication. Despite the challenges, he was determined to make a difference. The name "3Ding" was chosen for its simplicity and relevance to the field of 3D printing. Reddy wanted a name that was short and easy to remember, reflecting the company's mission to simplify 3D printing[5].The initial days were about learning and adapting. Reddy described it as "jumping into an ocean and then learning how to swim." This approach, though risky, allowed the company to quickly adapt to the evolving needs of the market and innovate rapidly[5].

Founding Team Background

Surendranath Reddy comes from a humble background in Chennai. His father, who worked in the Indian Railways, ensured that Reddy received a good education. This strong family support laid the foundation for Reddy's future endeavors. Reddy's decision to drop out of college was not taken lightly, but it paved the way for his entrepreneurial journey[5].Reddy's team at 3Ding is composed of engineers and experts in the field of 3D printing. The company operates primarily from Anna Nagar, Chennai, with demo stations in Hyderabad and Bangalore. The team's technical skills and dedication have been instrumental in the company's growth and success[5].

3Ding (Reddx) - Company Business Evolution

From Initial Concept to Current State

3Ding started by manufacturing one of the world’s most affordable 3D printers, the FabX series. Priced at Rs. 19,999, these printers were designed to be accessible to a wider audience, including students. This initial concept has evolved significantly over the years. Today, 3Ding not only manufactures high-end professional 3D printers but also offers customized solutions for specific needs[5].The company's growth has been rapid, with a focus on expanding its customer base. 3Ding has sold over 1000 printers and continues to grow its market presence. The company's achievements are largely due to its team of engineers who are constantly innovating and improving their products[1].

Key Growth Milestones

  • First Big Client: Renault Nissan was 3Ding's first major client. This partnership marked a significant milestone for the company, validating its products and services in the industry[5].
  • Expansion of Client Base: Over time, 3Ding has worked with other prominent clients such as Saint Gobain, Philips, and ISRO. These collaborations have helped the company gain credibility and expand its operations[5].
  • Geographical Expansion: 3Ding operates from multiple locations, including Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. This expansion has allowed the company to reach a broader customer base and provide better support services[5].
  • Product Innovation: The company continuously innovates and updates its product line. From affordable printers to high-end professional models, 3Ding has catered to a diverse range of customers[1].Product Portfolio Expansion
  • 3Ding's product portfolio is diverse and comprehensive. Here are some key products and services:
    • FabX Series: Affordable 3D printers designed for students and hobbyists[5].
    • High-End Professional Printers: Customizable 3D printers for industrial and professional use[5].
    • 3D Designing Services: The company offers design services to help clients create 3D models and prototypes[5].
    • 3D Scanning Services: 3Ding provides scanning services to capture detailed 3D models of objects[5].
    • Core Development Services: Services in robotics, embedded systems, and other related areas are also offered by the company[5].
  • 3Ding (Reddx) - Company Technology Infrastructure
  • Core Platform Architecture
  • 3Ding's core platform is built around its 3D printing technology. The company's printers are designed to be user-friendly and efficient. The architecture of their printers includes advanced features such as multiple workspace layouts and the ability to customize and float panels according to user preferences[1].The company's focus on research and development has enabled it to stay ahead in the industry. ReddX Technologies, the parent company, invests heavily in R&D, which forms the backbone of 3Ding's achievements[1].
  • Security and Compliance Framework
  • While specific details on 3Ding's security and compliance framework are not extensively documented, the company's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction suggests a robust framework. Here are some general aspects that might be part of their framework:
    • Data Protection: Ensuring the security of customer data and designs.
    • Compliance with Standards: Adhering to industry standards for 3D printing and related services.
    • Quality Control: Implementing rigorous quality control measures to ensure the reliability of their products.
  • Innovation in its Industry
  • 3Ding has been at the forefront of innovation in the 3D printing industry. Here are some key innovations:
    • Affordable 3D Printers: 3Ding introduced the FabX series, making 3D printing accessible to a wider audience[5].
    • Customizable Printers: The company offers customized 3D printers for specific industrial needs[5].
    • Advanced Research: 3Ding's parent company, ReddX Technologies, is involved in advanced research and development, driving innovation in the field[1].
    • Client-Centric Solutions: The company provides a range of services, including 3D designing and scanning, to cater to diverse customer needs[5].
    In summary, 3Ding's innovative approach, commitment to affordability, and focus on customer-centric solutions have positioned it as a leader in the Indian 3D printing industry.
  • Company Market Impact
  • 3Ding, a part of ReddX Technologies, has made a significant impact in the Indian 3D printing market. Here’s how they have grown and expanded their influence.
  • User Base Growth
  • 3Ding has seen substantial growth in its user base over the years. The company has sold over 3,500 printers in its five years of operation, which is a remarkable achievement[9].
  • Their customers include major auto companies like Mahindra, Rane, and Michelin. These companies use 3Ding's printers to create prototypes of models and components more quickly than traditional methods[9].
  • In addition to the automotive sector, educational institutions are also significant users. About 70% of the demand for 3D printers in India comes from educational institutions, which use them for various class projects, including prototyping[9].
    • Automotive companies: Mahindra, Rane, Michelin
    • Educational institutions: Various schools and universities
    • Other sectors: Healthcare, aerospace
    • Total printers sold: Over 3,500
    • Years of operation: Five years
  • Market Share Expansion
  • 3Ding has expanded its market share significantly by becoming the largest manufacturer of 3D printers in India. This position has been achieved through continuous innovation and customer satisfaction[6].
  • The company is also targeting the requirements of the Central government’s Atal Innovation Mission, which mandates every tinkering lab to have at least one 3D printer. With the government approving close to 30,000 labs, this presents a huge opportunity for 3Ding[9].
  • Local precision manufacturing expertise and the availability of after-sales service and spare parts have also contributed to their market share expansion. Import duties of up to 30% make local 3D printers more cost-effective[9].
    • Largest manufacturer of 3D printers in India
    • Targeting Atal Innovation Mission labs
    • Local precision manufacturing expertise
    • Cost advantage due to lower import duties
    • Availability of after-sales service and spare parts
  • Financial Inclusion Initiatives
  • While 3Ding's primary focus is on manufacturing and selling 3D printers, the company also offers prototyping and product development services. This diversification helps in financial inclusion by catering to a broader range of customers[9].
  • The healthcare sector is another area where 3Ding's services are making a financial impact. For instance, companies like Osteo3d, which is part of the same ecosystem, have handled over 850 medical cases, including surgeries and implants[9].
  • Financial inclusion is also facilitated through partnerships with various sectors, ensuring that the benefits of 3D printing technology reach a wide audience.
    • Prototyping and product development services
    • Healthcare sector services
    • Partnerships with educational and automotive sectors
    • Cost-effective solutions due to local manufacturing
    • After-sales service and spare parts availability
  • Company Financial Journey
  • 3Ding's financial journey has been marked by significant milestones and challenges. Here’s an overview of their revenue growth, path to profitability, and investment rounds.
  • Revenue Growth Story
  • 3Ding has experienced steady revenue growth driven by the increasing demand for 3D printers in various sectors. The company has sold over 3,500 printers, which is a testament to its revenue growth[9].
  • The revenue is also boosted by the services they offer, such as prototyping and product development. These services are in high demand from educational institutions, healthcare, and automotive sectors[9].
  • Additionally, the cost advantage of purchasing local 3D printers, with import duties running up to 30%, has contributed to their revenue growth[9].
    • Sales of over 3,500 printers
    • High demand from educational institutions
    • Revenue from prototyping and product development services
    • Cost advantage due to local manufacturing
    • Partnerships with key sectors
  • Path to Profitability
  • 3Ding’s path to profitability has been supported by its diverse customer base and the range of services it offers. The company has managed to maintain profitability despite the challenges faced by other 3D printing startups[9].
  • The focus on local manufacturing and the provision of after-sales service and spare parts have been crucial in maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty, which in turn contributes to profitability[9].
  • Moreover, the company’s expansion into different sectors, such as healthcare and aerospace, has helped in diversifying their revenue streams and ensuring profitability.
    • Diverse customer base
    • Range of services offered
    • Local manufacturing and after-sales service
    • Expansion into healthcare and aerospace sectors
    • Customer satisfaction and loyalty
  • Investment Rounds and Valuations
  • While specific details on 3Ding’s investment rounds and valuations are not publicly available, it is clear that the company has attracted attention from investors due to its innovative approach and market growth[9].
  • Indian ventures in the 3D printing space, including 3Ding, face challenges in securing funding because investors often prefer software and IT over hardware. However, companies like 3Ding have managed to secure funding through strategic partnerships and by demonstrating their growth potential[9].
  • The company’s plans to set up a 3D printing farm and target government initiatives also indicate a strong potential for future investment and growth.
    • Challenges in securing funding for hardware startups
    • Strategic partnerships for funding
    • Plans for a 3D printing farm
    • Targeting government initiatives
    • Demonstrating growth potential
  • Company Strategic Partnerships
  • 3Ding has formed several strategic partnerships to enhance its operations and market reach. Here are some key partnerships they have established.
  • Banking Collaborations
  • Although there is no specific information available on 3Ding’s banking collaborations, it is common for companies in the manufacturing sector to partner with banks for financial support and services. Such partnerships can help in managing cash flow, securing loans, and accessing other financial resources.
  • These collaborations are essential for expanding operations, such as setting up a 3D printing farm, which 3Ding is planning to do[9].
  • Banking partnerships can also facilitate easier payment processes for customers, making it more convenient for them to purchase 3D printers and services.
    • Financial support and services
    • Managing cash flow
    • Securing loans
    • Access to financial resources
    • Facilitating payment processes
  • Merchant Partnerships
  • 3Ding collaborates with various merchants and companies to offer its services and products. For example, they work with auto majors like Mahindra, Rane, and Michelin to provide 3D printing solutions for prototyping and component manufacturing[9].
  • In the healthcare sector, partnerships with companies like Osteo3d help in providing medical models, implants, and other 3D printed solutions. These partnerships are crucial for expanding their market reach and customer base[9].
  • Additionally, 3Ding’s involvement with educational institutions helps in promoting 3D printing technology among students and faculty, further enhancing their market presence.
    • Partnerships with auto majors: Mahindra, Rane, Michelin
    • Collaborations in the healthcare sector: Osteo3d
    • Partnerships with educational institutions
    • Providing 3D printing solutions for prototyping
    • Expanding market reach and customer base
  • Technology Alliances
  • 3Ding forms technology alliances to stay ahead in the competitive 3D printing market. These alliances help in integrating the latest technologies and innovations into their products and services.
  • For instance, the company’s focus on research and development activities, which form the backbone of their achievements, indicates a strong commitment to technological advancements[6].
  • By partnering with other technology companies, 3Ding can improve the performance and efficiency of their 3D printers, making them more attractive to customers.
    • Integration of latest technologies
    • Research and development activities
    • Improving performance and efficiency of 3D printers
    • Enhancing customer attraction
    • Staying competitive in the market