News in the UK is that national postal service the Royal Mail (no longer in fact 'Her Majesty's' following a quite scandalous privatization earlier this year) are investing their new found (dirty) money in a scheme to bring 3D printers to local stores in collaboration with 3D printing specialist iMakr.
Initially set to pilot in London's central New Cavendish Street delivery office, the service is intended to make the technology more accessible for consumers and small business. Although we have to welcome efforts to make 3D printing more available to the public, it seems unclear whether the service will allow for printing original designs. Already front and center on the Royal Mail's homepage, there only appears to be 'a selection of gifts created by designers exclusively for 3D printing' available, some which show signs of customization options.
Whilst a nationwide network of making hubs may be the dream of many digital manufacturing mavericks, only time will tell whether the service proves of any use to the consumers and small businesses for which it is intended. We're also wondering whether the Royal Mail will be able shoulder this kind of initiative given its lack of creative kudos or indeed with the looming post-privatization cutbacks. We'll have to give it a try and get back to you.
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