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During a challenging year, revenue from 3D printers and services still rose 26%, to $5.16 billion, in 2015, says researcher with the Wohlers Report. Still, that’s marks a slowdown from 35% growth during the previous year, to $4.1 billion. Wohlers estimates the market for 3D printers and services will approach $10 billion in 2017. The 2015 growth rate was well above that reported by the two industry leaders: 3D Systems ( DDD ) and Stratasys ( SSYS ). 3D Systems reported 2% revenue growth in 2015, to $666 million. At Stratasys, revenue fell 7% to $696 million. Shares of Stratasys and 3D Systems were crushed in 2015, as both posted disappointing earnings quarter after quarter. Investors now appear to be returning for another look. 3D Systems has climbed 165% since marking its low of 6 on Jan. 20. It was trading near 16 Thursday afternoon, down a fraction. Stratasys is up 83% from its January low of 14.88. It was trading near 27 Thursday, little changed from its previous close. Analysts have continued to take a cautious tone on the two stocks, not fully convinced of a full-scale rebound, though 3D printing technology is being increasingly embraced by corporations, governments and universities. Wohlers said there were 62 manufacturers that sold industrial-grade 3D printers with a value above $5,000 last year, up from 49 in 2014. Scalper1 News
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