3D printing driven business model innovation and supply chain operations: a perspective of strategic alignment

Purpose The dissemination of 3D printing is contingent upon the strategic formulation of innovative business models that are integrated with supply chain management. While 3D printing is considered a disruptive innovation that has simultaneously transformed business models and supply chain operations, previous research has often treated these two aspects separately. To bridge this gap, this paper aims to explore the alignment between business model and supply chain operations that enhance the proliferation of 3D printing technology. Design/methodology/approach This study integrates manufacturer- and customer-centric business models through 3D printing’s capacity to support both centralized and decentralized supply chains, conducts a strategic evaluation to align business model innovations with supply chain operations and employs fsQCA analysis with Chinese 3D printing provider cases. Findings Our research reveals that business models focusing on efficiency benefit from aligning with centralized supply chain strategies, while those emphasizing novelty are enhanced by decentralized supply chains, both positively influencing the adoption of 3D printing technology innovation. The research highlights the benefits of combining hybrid manufacturing and customization in centralized environments, as well as the significance of embracing supercenter and marketplace models in decentralized supply chains to foster 3D printing innovation. Practical implications The findings of our research provide valuable insights for practitioners looking to assess their supply chains and explore how their business innovations can be effectively implemented within the supply chain structure. This examination can help them recognize the transformative potential of 3D printing and how it can revolutionize their industry by enabling new business models and processes. Originality/value The contribution of this paper is (a) to analyze business model innovation considering the strategic alignment between the business model and supply chain strategy driven by 3D printing; (b) to empirically testify this aligned performance in 3DP manufacturer for the first time.