From Žďár to Vegas: Czech 3D Concrete Printing Technology Scores in the U.S. Market

Kristýna Uhrová is an architect and 3DCP specialist at ICE Industrial Services. Together with other architects and specialists, she has been involved in the development and implementation of 3D concrete printing in architecture and construction for the past three years.

In early 2025, she, along with CEO Tomáš Vránek and Head of Development Jiří Vambera, traveled to Las Vegas to represent ICE at two prestigious trade shows: World of Concrete and the International Builders’ Show (IBS). At these events, they showcased the Coral 3DCP technology, established new connections, and received positive feedback from one of the largest markets in automated construction.

Tomáš Vránek, CEO of ICE, shared his thoughts on our return to the USA: “Despite having a small, tucked-away booth at IBS, we had lines of attendees eager to see us. Interest in 3D concrete printing was huge – not just from the U.S., but also from Mexico, Panama, and Costa Rica. The construction industry here has significant potential, and we're prepared to show that its future is in automation.”

„We Came, We Saw, We’re Ready to Print!”

Insights from the Trade Shows by Kristýna Uhrová

 Kristýna, can you summarise your impressions of the World of Concrete and IBS trade shows? 

We decided to attend WOC almost at the last minute, primarily as business visitors. It turned out to be an excellent decision; we observed the competition and confirmed that our technology ranks among the best globally. This is due not only to our technical solutions but also to our ability to utilize local materials, a crucial factor for American builders.

Based on recommendations from WOC attendees, we chose to participate in IBS as well. Even though our booth was located in the back of the hall, we experienced a constant flow of visitors. We engaged with owners of construction companies, developers, and engineers; these included professionals building luxury villas in Mexico and firms seeking solutions for compact homes in Alaska. What united them was a desire for efficiency, automation, and the ability to construct unique buildings.

 How much interest is there in 3D concrete printing in the U.S.? 

There is significant interest. Traditionally, America has focused on wood-frame construction, but there's a growing need for stronger, more durable, and rapidly built houses. Concrete stands out in this regard; its resistance to earthquakes and fires is significantly higher than that of wood. Utilising concrete in 3D printing offers notable advantages, particularly in speed and cost-effectiveness.

Our technology enables mass production of houses, aligning perfectly with current demands in the American market. Expensive labor is a major issue here. Our Coral 3DCP printer can be operated by just three people, addressing this challenge effectively. Our goal is to facilitate the rapid production of houses, not only in the U.S. but globally, to meet the enormous demand for affordable housing.

 How does ICE compare to its competitors?

At the trade shows, we closely analyzed our competitors and, frankly, found that most aren't equipped for large-scale construction. Many concentrate on smaller structures, benches, or artistic pieces, whereas we set our sights higher.

ICE offers a functional and refined solution for substantial architectural projects and is ready to implement mass construction. When we claim to be among the best in the world, it's not just a phrase. We possess the technology, experience, and courage to surpass others.

 Has your experience in the U.S. opened doors to new projects?

We have acquired numerous relevant contacts and initiated several negotiations. Americans are direct and pragmatic; if something makes sense, they commit fully.

We're planning to open an ICE branch in the U.S. this year. Two of our new printers will be up and running there, and we're developing the 2026 model to be even more compact and refined in design. We want our product to no longer look like a prototype in development, but also to be exclusive and to stand out not only in the European but also in the global market. 

*Mike Jelínek, conceptual sketch of the Coral 26 3D printer

Automation is the Future of Construction

ICE views 3D concrete printing not as an end goal but as part of a broader movement toward construction automation. There remains significant potential to make building faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Additionally, 3D printing introduces entirely new possibilities to architecture and construction.

„With our talented team and innovative solutions, we aim to become the global leader in construction and architectural automation,“ says Kristýna Uhrová, envisioning the future of Coral.