Walmart scales up 3D-printed construction

Walmart is expanding its use of 3D-printed buildings after successful pilot projects, partnering with Alquist for what the company calls the largest commercial deployment of the technology in US history.

3D construction printer-maker Alquist has secured a major partnership with Walmart and other retailers to deliver more than a dozen printed projects across the US, marking what the company calls the largest deployment of printed commercial building technology in American history.

The Colorado-based firm previously completed two pilot projects for Walmart: an 8,000 sq ft pickup facility in Athens, Tennessee, and a 5,000 sq ft structure in Owens Crossing, Alabama. Alquist claims its 3D construction printing technology is cheaper, three times stronger, and 50% faster than conventional methods.

To scale operations, Alquist has partnered with construction equipment dealer Hugg & Hall and general contractor FMGI. Under the arrangement, FMGI will own and lease Alquist’s A1X printers, with financing and servicing from Hugg & Hall. The first project begins this month with a Walmart building in Lamar, Missouri.

“For years, 3DCP has been an emerging idea. Now, it’s a proven solution being deployed by some of the nation’s largest companies,” said Alquist CEO Patrick Callahan.