Vending

Ford uses vending machine to distribute 3D-printed tools

PedroHenrique - stock.adobe.com

November 3, 2026

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Ford Motor Co. is using a vending machine to give assembly team leaders access to 3D-printed parts used in F-150 pickup production at its River Rouge factory in Dearborn, Michigan, according to a CNBC report. The machine provides a central distribution point for items produced by the plant's additive manufacturing operation.

Gregory Foresi, a Ford mechanical engineer who previously ran the plant's 3D-printing lab, said the vending machine makes parts available to team leaders while helping staff keep supplies organized and stocked. Employees can request parts and tools through an app, with printing teams helping develop designs and determine production priorities.

The vending installation is part of Ford's broader effort to produce customized tools faster and, in many cases, at lower cost. The company said its 3D-printing program includes more than 200 machines and expects labs at more than 23 plants by year-end. Rivian and General Motors also are expanding their use of the technology, CNBC reported.