Additive manufacturing technologies as a reshoring enabler: a why, where and how approach

The paper analyzes the relationship between additive manufacturing technologies (AMTs) and manufacturing reshoring adopting a two-steps, desk research strategy. At first, a theoretical approach that follows a ‘2W & 1H’ (‘who’, ‘why’ and ‘how’) perspective is implemented; then, 11 case studies of companies reshored after implementing AMTs are analyzed. Results show that ATMs may enable manufacturing reshoring decisions, and that AMTs and reshoring are diffused in the same industries. The cases, partially in contrast with the literature, also indicate the adoption of AM production systems as enablers for reshoring through insourcing. Lastly, the paper introduces some implication for policy makers suggesting to integrate policies supporting AMTs industries and the ones focused on reshoring.