Walmart has launched a new 3D-printed construction project in Lamar, Missouri, marking its third deployment of 3D construction printing (3DCP) and signaling growing confidence in the technology’s ability to scale across retail developments.
The Missouri project follows Walmart’s October 2024 build in Athens, Tennessee, where the retailer used Alquist’s 3D robotic construction technology to construct an 8,000-square-foot, 20-foot-high store addition. The system extrudes concrete in layers, allowing structural walls to be formed more efficiently than traditional construction methods.
According to the companies involved, the Lamar project is expected to be the first of more than a dozen 3DCP construction projects planned by Walmart and other U.S. retailers. To support that pipeline, Alquist has formed partnerships with equipment rental dealer Hugg & Hall and full-service general contractor FMGI.
Under the new operating model, FMGI will lease Alquist A1X printers, with the equipment financed and serviced by Hugg & Hall, to execute large-scale 3D-printed projects nationwide. The approach allows Alquist to sell, lease, and rent its proprietary printers and training systems, expanding industry-wide access to 3D construction printing.
“For the first time ever in our industry we have the right partners in place to scale 3DCP at a massive level,” said Patrick Callahan, CEO of Alquist, in a statement. “For years, 3DCP has been an emerging idea. Now, it’s a proven solution being deployed by some of the nation’s largest companies.”
The upcoming projects will vary in size, scope, and geographic application, but will consistently rely on Alquist’s robotic system to deliver structural walls and infrastructure elements more efficiently and sustainably than conventional construction techniques.
“At FMGI, we’re builders first,” said Darin Ross, President and CEO of FMGI, in a statement. “What drew us to Alquist was how practical this technology really is. It’s faster to mobilize, cleaner on site and delivers consistent quality in every print.”
Alquist has experienced rapid growth over the past year, including the establishment of its headquarters in Greeley, Colorado, and the expansion of its education and industry partnerships. The company continues to collaborate with Aims Community College in Greeley, along with residential builders, to train future construction workers and advance sustainable building practices.
Alquist also plans to announce additional educational partnerships later this year, further supporting workforce development as 3D construction printing gains traction across commercial and retail projects.
Originally reported by Adam Blair in Retail Touch Points.
