German Construction Giant's 3D Printing Move: Implications for ASEAN Factories

A New Era in Construction: 3D Printing Takes Center Stage in Germany and Beyond \\[n]\\ In a move that signals a significant shift in the construction industry, Matthäi Schlüsselfertigbau, a subsidiary of one of Germany’s largest construction groups, has launched its own 3D printing division. This decision comes on the heels of the successful completion of their new two-story headquarters, a 364 m² (3,920 SF) building in Selsingen, Lower Saxony, which was printed using a COBOD BOD2 construction 3D printer. The project, completed in July 2026, marks a milestone in the adoption of 3D printing technology in the construction sector. \\[n]\\ ### What This Means for ASEAN Factories \\[n]\\ The success of this project in Germany has far-reaching implications for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. As these countries continue to industrialize and modernize, the demand for efficient and sustainable construction methods is on the rise. 3D printing offers a promising solution, providing faster, more flexible, and more sustainable construction options. For example, in Thailand, where the government is pushing for smart city initiatives, 3D printing can accelerate the construction of new industrial facilities, reducing both time and costs. Similarly, in Vietnam, where rapid urbanization is driving the need for new factories, 3D printing can help meet the growing demand for industrial space. \\[n]\\ In Indonesia and Malaysia, where the manufacturing sector is a key driver of economic growth, 3D printing can provide a competitive edge by enabling the construction of customized and complex structures with greater precision and speed. This technology can also reduce waste and lower the environmental impact of construction, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals. \\[n]\\ ### The Technology Behind the Innovation \\[n]\\ The 3D-printed headquarters in Selsingen was constructed using Holcim’s TectorPrint material, a printable cementitious material. The walls of both floors were printed in approximately 105 hours, with the entire building measuring around 7.4 m (24 ft) high, 22.5 m (74 ft) long, and 13.5 m (44 ft) deep. The foundation, base slab, floors, and roof were built using conventional methods, while the walls and facade were directly printed from a digital model, eliminating the need for additional formwork. \\[n]\\ This innovative approach not only speeds up the construction process but also allows for greater design flexibility. Tim Schulenburg, managing director of Schulenburg Architekten, emphasized the transformative potential of 3D concrete printing, stating, “This technology enables us to completely revolutionize traditional construction processes, creating an entirely new sector within the construction industry.” \\[n]\\ ### The Future of Factory Construction in ASEAN \\[n]\\ The establishment of Matthäi Schlüsselfertigbau’s 3D printing division, in partnership with PERI 3D Construction, marks a significant step towards the mainstream adoption of 3D printing in the construction industry. This move demonstrates that 3D printing is no longer just a demonstration technology but is becoming an integral part of everyday business. \\[n]\\ For factory buyers in ASEAN, this means that 3D printing can offer a viable and cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods. By embracing this technology, factories can be built faster, with greater precision, and at a lower cost. Additionally, the ability to create complex and customized designs can lead to more efficient and functional industrial spaces. \\[n]\\ As the construction industry continues to evolve, 3D printing is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of factory construction in ASEAN. Factory buyers should consider the benefits of 3D printing and explore how this technology can enhance their operations and contribute to their long-term success.