AkzoNobel invests in Suzhou plant to meet coatings demand

AkzoNobel's newly upgraded automated production line in Suzhou, China, has been put into operation recently. These upgrades are part of the Group's €14 million investment to double the production capacity of marine and protective coatings at the Group's plants worldwide by 2025.

The recent upgrades have increased production capacity by more than 40%, and AkzoNobel will also improve three other production lines to double total capacity by the end of next year. "Continued investment in Suzhou reaffirms our commitment to providing customers with the best solutions, quality and service," commented Simon Parker, Director of AkzoNobel's Marine and Protective Coatings business. "The strategic improvements we are making will also enable us to adapt more quickly to the dynamic Chinese market."

China is a leader in the global shipbuilding market, with growing demand for marine and protective coatings, including high-performance antifouling coatings and wind power solutions, which can be met by AkzoNobel's International, Intersleek, Relest and Chartek products.

Karen-Marie Katholm, AkzoNobel’s Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer, added: “The increased production capacity at the Suzhou site is another great example of the progress we are making in strengthening our portfolio. The significant improvements in the plant’s efficiency and capacity will strengthen our local production and supply chain capabilities, which are critical to responding to a changing market.”
Recently completed work includes enhanced automation of existing exhaust gas treatment, filling and grinding systems. Other planned plant improvements include transitioning to 100% renewable electricity by 2025, which will help the company achieve its goal of halving carbon emissions across its value chain by 2030.