FMGI, Inc., a commercial general contractor headquartered in Woodstock, Georgia, has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Dr. Babak Zareiyan as Director of Innovation and Technology, signaling the firm’s continued investment in 3D concrete printing (3DCP) as demand accelerates across the retail construction sector.
In his new role, Zareiyan will lead, develop, and scale FMGI’s 3DCP division, helping position the firm to meet growing interest from retailers seeking faster, more cost-effective construction methods. FMGI has emerged as a leader in applying additive construction technologies to commercial projects, particularly within the retail industry.
“FMGI’s commitment to innovation has propelled our firm to not only be a leader in the commercial general contractor arena, but also the leading provider of 3DCP solutions for the retail industry,” says Darin Ross, president + CEO, FMGI, Inc. “Babak’s expansive knowledge of additive construction will only further enhance our problem-solving capabilities. His body of experience centers on comprehensive implementation strategies that span technology, materials, training and regulatory integration. This unparalleled, in-house expertise enables us to advance our team and better perform for our retail partners.”
Zareiyan brings extensive experience in materials science, robotics, compliance, and global project execution. Widely recognized as an authority in additive construction, he has played a key role in advancing acceptance criteria, permitting, and deployment of 3D-printed concrete structures in both domestic and international markets.
His notable achievements include serving as an industry pioneer who executed groundbreaking acceptance criteria for 3D automated construction technology for concrete walls; overseeing California’s first permitted 3D-printed concrete structures using locally sourced materials; advising companies across the Middle East, Asia, and the United States on operational deployment of additive construction technologies; and acting as an advisor and emerging construction technology specialist at Wohlers Associates, powered by ASTM International.
“Education, technical rigor and training are essential for the long-term success of 3DCP in commercial environments,” adds Zareiyan. “Our curriculum and certification efforts will raise industry standards, strengthen workforce capabilities and ensure FMGI remains at the forefront of this evolving industry and defines the standards for quality, safety and customer service.”
As Director of Innovation and Technology, Zareiyan will oversee the creation of a custom education and certified training program aimed at workforce development for 3DCP systems. He is also tasked with establishing an FMGI Research and Development facility, collaborating with organizations such as ASTM and the International Code Council to standardize 3DCP in retail construction, developing design and engineering specifications for structural applications, and expanding education efforts to help retailers understand the capabilities and benefits of additive construction.
“Since constructing our first—and the industry’s tallest—3DCP retail building in 2024, the demand for this industry-changing technology has exponentially grown,” adds Ross. “Babak’s expertise and leadership is essential for us to effectively and safely scale our capabilities so that even more retailers can capitalize on 3DCP.”
Ross emphasized that 3D concrete printing represents one component of FMGI’s broader growth strategy.
“While 3DCP is one of our fastest growing divisions, it’s just one avenue of strategic growth for our team. With Babak’s technical expertise, industry knowledge and hands-on experience, we now have an in-house resource to guide our team and efficiently utilize our robotic equipment to not only scale 3DCP but also be at the guidepost for the next technological advancement.”
FMGI currently has two 3DCP projects scheduled to begin for the world’s largest retailer in December 2025 and February 2026. The firm previously demonstrated the efficiency of the technology with a 5,000-square-foot retail expansion in Huntsville, Alabama, where an online pickup and delivery addition was completed in just 75 print hours over seven days by a five-person crew using two robots.
“At the core of our business is traditional construction, and it will be so for the near future,” states Ross. “Our clients appreciate our innovative approach that always seeks to save them time and money and accelerate their speed to market without compromising quality.”
FMGI’s active pipeline includes both traditional and 3DCP projects across a wide range of retail categories, including grocery stores, fuel stations, fitness centers, lifestyle retailers, entertainment venues, discount warehouses, automotive parts stores, fast food restaurants, and home improvement centers.
“We foresee sustained interest and engagement with this innovative technology and anticipate steady demand for 3DCP over the next 12-18 months as awareness of the benefits of 3DCP continues to grow within the retail industry,” concludes Zareiyan. “We are fully committed to building excellence through the delivery of quality product and exceptional customer service that has established our long-standing tradition of repeat business and new partnerships.”
Originally reported by Caroline Peek in FMGI.
