Business models for the 3D food printing industry

3D food printing is a fascinating novel technology with many promising applications, from futuristic-looking food to
personalized nutrition, and space food for astronauts. However, much of its potential is only realized in the laboratory
or speculated in the literature. This research is an attempt to explore the barriers to the diffusion of this new
technology to the wider market. It argues that the choice of the business model plays as important a role as the
technical characteristics of the technology itself. By using both the concept of business model innovation and product
innovation, some of the barriers could be first better understood, reduced, and overcome.
The research consists of findings from two studies presented in two appended papers. The first study is qualitative
research that provides a stock of what business models are being used to commercialize 3D food printing
technology. The second study explores the possibilities of using business model innovation to reduce the barriers
to new technology diffusion in a new market.
The research contributes to the empirical knowledge of business and economic aspects of 3D food printing
technology. It contributes to the field of business model research by complementing empirical studies of business
model innovation in the context of novel technology. The comparisons of business model patterns in 3D food printing
could be generalized and applied to make similar comparisons between industries. Further research can focus on
the experiment with the integration of business model innovation and product development, including the design,
testing and evaluation phases.
On the managerial side, the business model patterns could serve as a starting point for companies looking for a way
to innovate the business model in new directions. Replication of proven and functioning business models may
reduce risk and development time.