Colossus Printers is bankrupt. The bankruptcy of the Oudsbergen-based company marks the end of a promising journey in the world of 3D printing technology. What began as an innovative idea in 2017, with the construction of the world's largest 3D printer, quickly grew into a global player in developing and commercialising large-scale 3D printing technology. Colossus' vision was to use recycled materials, such as plastic, hemp and paper, to create new, sustainable products.
In 2024, the company's strategic collaborations, including with Dutch player Triboo and Pelt-based Pami, prove that there was still faith in Colossus's future. These partnerships aimed to jointly market printed furniture made from waste streams, and highlighted the growing potential of the circular economy. That year, Colossus had proven itself a leader in material development and the application of 3D printing technology.
Belgium's Pami partnered with Dutch firm Triboo to create circular office furniture, with Triboo's Never-Ending-Furniture brand integrating exclusive custom-made furniture for an enhanced brand experience.
Colossus' ambition was great. The company not only built the largest 3D printer, but also carried out impressive projects, from creating life-size sculptures for Nike to creating a five-metre-high head for a Brussels trade fair. The challenge of printing the world's largest scale model depicting ancient Doha seemed like a huge opportunity. But the promise of such a big project eventually brought down the Limburg-based start-up.
A disagreement over the payment of an €800,000 invoice for the Doha project led to Colossus failing to meet the project's deadline. The financial pressure had become too much, and without the necessary funds, the company had to decide to put the books down. Nevertheless, faith in the company's future remains. 'We still have one printer in Oudsbergen and our partners and investors still fully believe in our story,' says COO William De Ceulaer, who is hopeful that a quick restart is possible.
For the many young designers and suppliers who worked with Colossus, it is especially unfortunate that the company had to take this step. Nevertheless, Colossus' vision - combining sustainability and technology in the world of 3D printing - remains relevant. At a time when the circular economy is becoming increasingly important, it is clear that companies offering innovative solutions to reuse waste streams, like Colossus, can play a crucial role in the future.
Although the bankruptcy is a heavy blow for the company, the dream of a more sustainable, advanced use of 3D printing technology remains alive. The One Project, the consortium that Colossus was part of, remains active and is not involved in the bankruptcy, offering hope for a fresh start and new opportunities in recycling and innovation.
So the future of Colossus remains uncertain, but the belief in the technology and potential of 3D printing from recycled materials remains. The journey may be over, but the impact of their work may have only just begun.
Source: HBVL