Shiyin Technology

Shiyin Technology, officially known as Changxing Shiyin Technology Co., Ltd., is a high-tech enterprise based in Hangzhou, China, that specializes in the research, development, and industrial application of 3D food printing equipment. Founded in May 2015 by a team from Zhejiang University, the company has established itself as an early entrant in China's 3D food printing sector. The founding team includes CEO Jingyuan Li, a graduate of Zhejiang University and founder of its 3D Printing Association who has also received a German Red Dot Design Award; COO Shuai Gao, who holds a Master's in Management from the same university; and CTO Yongzhe He, a professor and PhD tutor at Zhejiang University with over 25 national patents.

The company's core business revolves around the manufacturing and sale of 3D food printers, such as the 'Foodbot' and 'Sweetin' models. Initially, Shiyin Technology operated on a B2C model, selling customized 3D-printed foods directly to consumers and notable companies like Alibaba and BMW China. However, due to scalability challenges, the company pivoted to a B2B model, focusing on selling its 3D printing hardware to business clients. Its current go-to-market strategy involves a distributor network that places self-service 3D dessert printing machines in high-traffic locations such as malls, tourist attractions, and restaurant waiting areas. This self-service model, exemplified by the 'Panda' chocolate printer, allows consumers to design and print their own desserts in minutes by scanning a QR code, selecting a design, and paying via their smartphone.

Shiyin Technology's products are designed to handle a variety of paste-based ingredients, including chocolate, cheese, jam, lotus batter, and even mashed potatoes. The printers feature proprietary technology, including a constant temperature control system with a precision of less than 0.1 degree Celsius deviation and a printing accuracy of up to 0.4mm. The company holds numerous patents for its machines. Revenue is generated primarily through the sale of these printing machines to distributors and other businesses. The self-serve machines offer an additional revenue stream, with desserts priced at an average of $2-4 per item. The company has completed at least two funding rounds, including a Seed round in 2018 led by Orient Kings Investment Holdings. Keywords: 3D food printing, food technology, hardware, B2B, self-service kiosks, custom food, dessert printer, chocolate printer, food manufacturing, food innovation, Hangzhou, Jingyuan Li, Zhejiang University, Foodbot, personalized food, food automation, new retail, food equipment, culinary technology, paste extrusion