Paint and coatings manufacturer AkzoNobel revealed plans this week to invest €3 million (about $3.3 million) in three new production lines at its powder coatings production facility in Changzhou, China. 

The company said the project aims to increase capacity of acrylic powder coatings, metallic powder coatings, and powder primers for the auto industry. 

“China is a high priority region for us and the booming powder coatings industry in China will help to optimize our production and investment strategy,” AkzoNobel’s chief executive officer, Thierry Vanlancker said in a company press release Tuesday. “This latest investment will also reinforce our capability to support local customers and enhance our manufacturing and supply chain.”

A wide range of products are made at the Changzhou plant, including decorative paints, vehicle refinishes, and protective coatings. The powder coatings production assets at the site came online in 2018 to support customers in East China. 

“Given emerging market trends and customer needs, we are fully aware of the importance of manufacturing and delivering locally. The Changzhou site plays a strategic role in supporting our business development in China,” said Mark Kwok, president of AkzoNobel China/North Asia, in a statement. “The new production lines will further our localization strategy to create more value for both ourselves and our customers with efficient and customized solutions.”

For more news headlines, articles, and equipment reviews, visit our Equipment Zones