Almost before the “ink” was dry on the January 31, 2004 commentary titled Chief Executive is Good for 3D Systems, I received news that 3D Systems and EOS had entered into an agreement that settles all worldwide disputes and litigation between the two companies. This news is big for the RP industry. Very big! In fact, the lingering battle between the two companies has been one of the obstacles to the growth of the industry, when you consider the magnitude of its impact. (See the August 2003 commentary titled Eight Lawsuits between 3D and EOS.) Not only were these companies spending resources on these disputes that neither could afford, the friction between the companies was a serious deterrent to the sale of products to major corporations.

Prior to the arrival of Abe Reichental, 3D’s relatively new president and chief executive, I held little hope for a settlement. Reichental is serious about making positive changes at the company and this proves it. One must also give credit to Hans Langer, chief executive at EOS. Without a willingness and determination to bring this to an end, EOS and 3D Systems would still be burning through enormous amounts of dollars and euros. Congratulations to both companies for this impressive accomplishment. It’s nothing less than a milestone for the development of this exciting industry.