Axalta Coating Systems, a global supplier of liquid and powder vehicle coatings, has launched an Automotive Refinish Training Centre in Dubai, UAE that represents the first of its kind in the region.
The centre will provide expert training in the use of Axalta products, such as Spies Hecker, Standox and Cromax, to repaint vehicles in body shops. Its opening follows the opening of Axalta’s regional office in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) in October 2016.
“We are excited to be able to expand our presence in Dubai and the region over such a short time span,” said Charlie Shaver, Chairman and CEO of Axalta, who formally inaugurated the new facility.
“This interactive training and education facility establishes a solid foundation that will provide continuous support and development to vehicle repair specialists that will both enhance the level of refinishing services and optimize the use of Axalta technologies in the region.”
In 2016, Axalta spent $180m on technology and product research and development in an effort to retain what it claims is its leading role in the supply of coatings to both heavy and light vehicle original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), as well as the leading supplier in the refinish segment.
Fadi Medlej, managing director of MENA for Axalta, noted that the global trends in automotive repair are now favouring environmentally responsible products, and that the use of the latest waterborne products, for instance, cuts down on the waster associated with airbourne equivalents.
He noted: “The new facility will meet the needs of refinish technicians who will be trained in the use of all our products, and especially our latest waterborne products, be able to provide vehicles with a durable and beautiful finish.”
The use of the centre for training will enable customers to maximize their use of these products, resulting in a reduction in the time and energy needed to repaint vehicles.
With more than 150 years of experience in the coatings industry, Axalta employs approximately 13,000 people and serves more than 100,000 customers in more than 130 countries.