3D Systems, a company that engineers, manufactures, and sells 3D printers, 3D printing materials, 3D scanners, and offers a 3D printing service, agreed to merge with Stratasys, a manufacturer of 3D printers, software, and materials for polymer additive manufacturing, in a $1.72bn deal. “The combination of 3D Systems and Stratasys is simply the best outcome for the shareholders of both companies. We feel strongly that now is the time for all parties to recognize the overwhelming logic of our two businesses coming together. We are in a unique position to move with confidence and speed and we encourage the Stratasys Board of Directors to engage with our proposal and make this combination a reality for the benefit of the shareholders, employees and customers of both companies,” Jeffrey Graves, President and CEO.