Walmart Partners with Alquist 3D for Commercial Construction Innovation

Walmart has partnered with Alquist 3D to construct an approximately 8,000-square-foot addition to its store in Athens, Tennessee. This facility, designated for online order pickup and delivery services, marks the largest 3D-printed commercial structure in the United States. Despite initial challenges, this project serves as a significant proof of concept for the commercial viability of 3D printing technology in construction.

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Following the success of the Athens project, Alquist announced plans to print over a dozen new Walmart buildings, as well as additional structures for other commercial retailers. This initiative represents one of the largest-scale deployments of 3D printing technology in commercial real estate, which has traditionally lagged behind residential construction in adopting modern building methods. Alquist, based in Greeley, Colorado, is known for designing and building large-scale printers and developing the necessary software for their operation.

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As part of this expansion, Sika, a leading construction materials company focused on sustainability, will supply materials for all future 3D-printed projects undertaken by Alquist. This collaboration aims to streamline Alquist's national pipeline, reduce material and freight costs, and enhance the development of sustainable concrete mixes for large-scale construction. Noah Callantine, a 3D concrete printing engineer at Sika, emphasized that this partnership positions Sika at the forefront of next-generation construction, opening new markets and fostering long-term growth opportunities.

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The integration of 3D printing into commercial construction is expected to lower costs associated with materials and labor. Patrick Callahan, CEO of Alquist, noted that increasing production volume is key to reducing supply chain expenses. As the company scales its operations, it aims to attract the attention of suppliers, which could further drive down costs. This shift in construction methodology is seen as a turning point for an industry that has been slow to modernize.

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While the partnership between Walmart and Alquist is viewed positively by some, critics may raise concerns regarding the long-term implications of 3D printing on traditional construction jobs and the potential environmental impacts of increased industrial activity. The balance between innovation and sustainability remains a critical discussion point as the industry evolves.

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• “This collaboration positions Sika at the forefront of next-generation construction, opening new markets and creating long-term growth opportunities,” — Noah Callantine, 3D Concrete Printing Engineer, Sika

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• “The way to bring prices down [for] anything is to get volume, and as you get volume, you get the attention of suppliers.” — Patrick Callahan, CEO, Alquist

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This partnership between Walmart and Alquist marks a significant step towards modernizing commercial construction through innovative technology, with potential implications for cost reduction and sustainability in the industry.

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