Azkonobel has just inaugurated a new production line at its Suzhou site in China, with the aim of modernizing its production and doubling the plant’s capacity in marine and protective coatings by 2025. The investment cost €14 million.
The recent upgrade, which will increase daily capacity by more than 40%, will be followed by the upgrade of three additional lines, resulting in a doubling of total capacity before the end of next year.
“The continued investments in Suzhou reaffirm our commitment to offer the best solutions, quality and service to our customers,” explains Simon Parker, head of AkzoNobel’s Marine Coatings and Protectors business. “The strategic improvements we are making will also enable us to adapt more quickly to the dynamic Chinese market.”
The growing demand for marine and protective coatings in China, a leader in the global shipbuilding market, includes a particular focus on high-performance antifouling and wind energy solutions, which are being met by the company’s International, Intersleek, RELEST and Chartek products.
“Improving production at the Suzhou site is another great example of the progress we are making to strengthen our business portfolio,” adds Karen-Marie Katholm, AkzoNobel’s Integrated Supply Chain director. “The site’s significant leap in efficiency and capacity will elevate our local production and supply chain capabilities, which is essential to respond to the ever-evolving market.”
The recently completed work included upgrading the automation of the existing waste gas treatment, filling and milling systems. Other planned site improvements include accelerating Suzhou’s transition to using 100% renewable electricity by 2025, which will contribute to the company’s ambition to halve carbon emissions across the value chain by 2030.
Located in eastern China, the Suzhou facility has been a crucial hub for the supply of marine and protective coatings since 2008.
