Walmart, along with other major retailers, is set to 3D-print more than 12 construction projects across the United States in the coming months, marking a significant step toward mainstream adoption of robotic 3D printing in commercial construction. The initiative is led by Alquist 3D, a Colorado-based company specializing in robotic 3D concrete printing systems, in collaboration with Hugg & Hall and general contractor FMGI.
The first project under this new model will begin at Walmart store No. 338 in Lamar, Missouri, in December 2025. This marks Alquist’s third Walmart project, following successful expansions at Walmart locations in Athens, Tennessee, and Huntsville, Alabama. The projects range in size and scope, with the Missouri expansion expected to feature structural walls and infrastructure elements created using Alquist’s advanced robotic 3D printing systems.
Alquist’s robotic 3D printing systems use advanced controls to lay concrete precisely, enabling faster, cleaner, and more consistent construction compared to traditional methods. The Alabama expansion was completed in just 75 hours, with walls finished in one week, about 50% faster than conventional construction. The technology also reduced labor requirements, with only five workers needed for the Alabama project versus a typical crew of 20–30 for similar builds.
This expansion into large-scale commercial 3D printing represents a turning point for the construction industry, moving beyond experimental pilots to full-scale commercialization. Retailers are increasingly drawn to the technology for its speed, cost-efficiency, and sustainability. Darin Ross, president and CEO of FMGI, highlighted that the partnership is transforming how large-scale projects are executed, emphasizing faster mobilization and consistent quality.
Key Projects and Features
- The Athens, Tennessee, expansion covers nearly 8,000 square feet and is used for Walmart’s Online Pickup & Delivery program.
- The Huntsville, Alabama, expansion is a 5,000-square-foot facility, also functioning as a delivery warehouse.
- The Lamar, Missouri, project will feature similar structural elements, with construction starting in December 2025.
The collaboration between Walmart, Alquist, and other retailers signals a broader industry shift toward adopting 3D printing for commercial construction. With multiple projects scheduled for 2025 and 2026, the technology is expected to become a standard solution for retail expansions, offering faster timelines, reduced costs, and improved sustainability.
Image Credit – newatlas.com
