Today 3D Systems (DDD 3.66%) announced it has made another acquisition, buying Digital PlaySpace (DPS) for an undisclosed amount. Digital PlaySpace bills itself as a game design and development studio that bolsters brand engagement.
Through the use of its DigitalDollhouse.com and Dreamhouse Designer Facebook app, Digital PlaySpace allows its users to create playhouses and other toys which can in turn be printed through the Cube 3D Printer or the cloud services provided by 3D Systems. The press release highlighted that the hosting and publishing platforms created by Digital PlaySpace are utilized by both parents and children. Its combination of "design, gaming, and community sharing," are used to "deliver a vivid 3D create-and-make experience," said 3D Systems.
Digital PlaySpace was founded by Jesyca Durchin, who has received awards for her efforts with Mattel in the creation of interactive and 3-D animated films. She also works with Disney Theme Parks and has assisted in the creation of games, films, and rides for a variety of different companies.
"We are excited to have Jesyca and her entire Digital PlaySpace team join our Cubify platform, enabling millions of new users to connect with family, friends and favorite brands in more immersive and socially creative ways," said the Chief Marketing Office of 3D Systems, Cathy Lewis, in the press release. "Digital PlaySpace's ability to customize and rapidly publish mobile and web 3D printable content provides a differentiated value proposition for brands and consumers alike."
This will mark the eight acquisition by 3D Systems since August, and the fifth since December. On Jan. 3 it announced it had acquired Gentle Giant Studios, a provider of 3-D modeling for both the entertainment and toy industries. It also announced on Dec. 18 a $33 million cash acquisition of a portion of the Xerox solid ink and engineering development groups. This followed the December acquisitions of 3-D printing filament manufacturer Village Plastics Co. as well as ceramics printer Figulo Corporation. Other acquisitions over the past half-year or so include Sugar Labs, TeamPlatform, and CRDM. The company also recently announced partnerships with Hasbro and Hershey.
Durchin was quoted in the press release as saying: "Our vision is to deliver a '3D PlaySpace' for everyone. The immersiveness and fun of our PlaySpace experience enhances brand recall and loyalty, enabling brands and retailers to connect with consumers in a whole new way. We designed Digital PlaySpace from the bottom-up for publishing flexibility and scalability, and 3DS is the perfect home for our growth."
