Protolabs Revamps Its Manufacturing Partner Network

Protolabs launched its rebranded Protolabs Network service that leverages global manufacturing partners for expanded capabilities and pricing options. Formerly known as Hubs, the move signals Protolabs’ commitment to a singular global brand and unified customer experience, according to Protolabs. The transition comes almost 3 years after acquiring the Amsterdam-based manufacturing network, which has seen annual growth since the 2021 acquisition.

The business model referred to is a hybrid digital manufacturing model combining Protolabs’ internal digital factories with a global network of suppliers—Protolabs Network—to provide customers a manufacturing resource throughout a product’s entire life cycle.

Protolabs Network includes more than 250 vetted supply partners, to serve customers’ broad needs across the life cycle of their products—from innovation and prototyping to production and end-of-life product support, according to Protolabs. Customers can access tighter tolerances, enhanced finishing options, and higher volumes at lower cost. The manufacturing partner network complements the low-volume, on-demand manufacturing services also available from Protolabs.

The newly rebranded Protolabs Network is now live. To learn more about Protolabs’ hybrid manufacturing model that combines factory and network capabilities, click here for its future-focused framework.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.