Akzo Nobel opens production facility in South America

The facility – an expansion of an existing site in Santo André, São Paulo, Brazil – will manufacture and supply products from the company's “International” portfolio of high performance industrial, marine and yacht coatings, which has been present in Brazil for 90 years.  As well as reinforcing Akzo Nobel's commitment to investing in innovation and technology, the new plant will also help to strengthen the brand's market position in South America.

Driving organic growth

Commenting on the opening, Jelena Arsic Van Os, Director of Akzo Nobel Performance Coatings in South America, said: “Our innovation expertise plays a key role in driving organic growth and this new facility highlights our continued focus on adapting to market needs in order to better serve our customers with essential colour and protection. “The investment will add further momentum to the instrumental role International is playing in helping Akzo Nobel to strategically diversify its markets and expand its presence throughout South America.”

Increased production capacity

The Santo André expansion has increased production capacity for smaller batches by 35% and for larger batches by 50%. A new distribution center also means shipping capacity has been expanded by 50%. Meanwhile, an increase in the level of automation has improved the control of the production process and, in turn, the quality of the products.