Our Story
Who We Are
At Forward AM, our purpose is to streamline every manufacturing process with layers of AM. From consultancy, development and innovative design, through digital simulation and prototype printing, to finishing and exhaustive component testing – our AM experts will work to ensure that your project meets your exact needs. Rooted in BASF’s 160-year heritage of excellence, Forward AM is centrally positioned as the biggest global independent solutions and materials portfolio for AM materials, services and software. Whatever material you require for your specific project, we offer the world’s largest selection of 3D printing materials and service solutions.
Forward AM collaborates closely with the global AM community, partnering with leading companies across automotive, industrial, consumer goods, and healthcare sectors. Our customers turn to 3D printing to boost productivity, reduce costs, and drive sustainable innovation.
Our mission remains: to empower everyone to adopt additive manufacturing – simply, effectively, and sustainably.
Founded in 2017 as BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH, the company became Forward AM Technologies in 2024 after being acquired by CEO Martin Back. In 2025, Forward AM entered a new chapter as Mass Additive Manufacturing GmbH, a standalone company within the Stratasys group. Today, we continue to deliver our trusted portfolio with enhanced capabilities, leveraging Stratasys’ global scale to accelerate impact across the entire AM ecosystem.
Key Milestones in the History of Forward AM
2017
In mid-August 2017, BASF New Business GmbH acquired all shares in the Dutch 3D filament manufacturer Innofil3D, an internationally leading manufacturer of high-quality customized filaments for 3D layer extrusion (Fused Filament Fabrication). The Innofil3D product range extended the BASF portfolio with thermoplastic filaments for 3D printing. Innofil3D became the central FFF development and production platform for BASF.
2017-2018
On September 01, 2017, BASF New Business GmbH founded the new Group company BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH.
In July 2018, BASF New Business GmbH acquired all shares in Advanc3D Materials GmbH, Hamburg, and Setup Performance SAS with a production site in Lyon. These acquisitions were an important step for BASF in expanding its Powder Bed Fusion business area.
2019
Forward AM was born. With the introduction of its new Forward AM corporate brand, we continues to pursue its goal of driving industrial scalability as the next phase of additive-based manufacturing, “AM”. “Forward” stands for future-oriented, leading-edge materials and technology, while “AM” stands for “Additive Manufacturing”. The new arrow-symbol brand logo and “Innovating Additive Manufacturing” baseline emphasize the company’s dynamic approach to this exciting industrial manufacturing sector.
2020
Forward AM offers selected 3D printing materials through the French 3D printing service provider Sculpteo. To provide customers with components printed with the latest high performance materials, Sculpteo has expanded its local production capacity. Its newly installed 3D printing systems now enable Sculpteo to provide customers with a comprehensive array of advanced Forward AM materials.
2021
In 2021, Forward AM expanded with two key centers: the Additive Manufacturing Technical Center (AMTC) in Shanghai and the Applications Technology Center (ATC) in Detroit. The AMTC offers advanced 3D printing solutions across the Asia-Pacific, equipped with multiple printers and various technologies. Meanwhile, the Detroit ATC combines Forward AM’s expertise with MSU’s innovation to drive Additive Manufacturing advancements in North America.
2022
Martin Back to Succeed François Minec as Managing Director of BASF 3D Printing Solutions. After three years as Managing Director, François Minec leaves BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH on May 31, 2022. Martin Back, an expert with 25 years of industry experience succeeds him, aiming to drive continued growth in Additive Manufacturing.
2023
BASF Forward AM is stepping into the spotlight with its latest innovation, the Ultrasim® 3D Lattice Engine, set to debut at Rapid. This new tool simplifies lattice generation, making it more accessible than ever before.
BASF Forward AM Announces Continuous High Growth in the First Half of 2023. The company reported a 39% growth for 2023 HY1 and a 51% increase in material business for its continuous portfolio compared to 2022 HY1. Market forecast for the 3D printing industry in 2023 CAGR is 19%.
Through a collaborative effort with the Victoria Hand Project and UltiMaker, BASF Forward AM has delivered high-quality prosthetics to amputees affected by conflict in Ukraine.
2024
BASF Forward AM’s CEO Martin Back acquires BASF’s AM business, forming Forward AM Technologies. Forward AM Technologies combines BASF’s materials and solutions with services to boost innovation, speed-to-market, customer focus, and cross-industry partnerships. Retaining IP and supply chain control, Forward AM will continue offering established products and services to its global customer base.
2025
In May 2025, Forward AM entered a bold new chapter as part of the Stratasys family, operating as a standalone company under the new name Mass Additive Manufacturing GmbH. Backed by Stratasys’ global strength, Forward AM continues as an open, innovation-driven materials brand, marking the start of an exciting journey with many milestones still to come...
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