The custom machine parts manufacturer opened at $16 a share in late February this year and closed at $29, an increase of 81% on its opening day. Protolabs (PRLB), which makes prototypes and sample parts for companies creating new products, made a big impression on investors during its roadshow and there was an enthusiastic response to the business.
The IPO was another sign that manufacturing is making a comeback. Six months later, the stock was still up 104%.
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