CKAB
Defunct French MakerBot distributor and digital manufacturing consultancy (open-source hardware kits, IoT/connected objects, 3D print services); pioneer of retail 3D printing corners with Top Office (2013).
- CEO / Founder
- Louis Montagne
- Team Size
- 1-10
- Stage
- Defunct
Technology & Products
Key Products
Open-source 3D printers (FDM, wooden platform kits); IoT-enabled smart and networking devices; Digital manufacturing prototyping services; 3D printing consultancy
Technological Advantage
Early-mover in open-source 3D printer hardware; established partnership model with major French retail chains (Top Office) for on-site 3D printing services; integration of IoT capabilities with hardware manufacturing.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Made desktop 3D printing accessible in France via MakerBot distribution, training, and in-store print services (Top Office 2013); open-source hardware kits and IoT/connected-object consulting for brands and institutions.
How They Differentiate
Maker distribution + hands-on retail service + OSHW/IoT consulting stack in France; retail partnership (Top Office) rather than pure consumer printer OEM positioning.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Enterprise clients, public organizations, non-profits, consumer retail (via partnerships)
Industry Verticals
Consumer Retail; Enterprise Manufacturing; Public Sector; Non-Profit Organizations
Competitors
MakerBot Industries (consumer FDM printers, US); Ultimaker (consumer/professional FDM printers, Netherlands); Prusa Research (consumer FDM printers, Czech Republic)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Defunct (radiée 2018). Historical: ~4 employees (2013); capital €10k; 2012 CA ~€98k with large losses; liquidation for insuffisance d'actif.
Major Milestones
2011–2012: Company creation/registration (SAS, Paris). 2013: Top Office retail 3D print corners with MakerBot. 2017-02: Liquidation judiciaire opened. 2018-11: Clôture for insuffisance d'actif; radiée.
Notable Customers
Top Office (retail partnership, 2013)