AkzoNobel is a multinational company that specialises in the manufacturing of paints and coatings. With a history dating back to the 17th century, the company has grown to become one of the leading players in the industry, with operations in more than 150 countries and over 34,000 employees.

The company's products range from decorative paints for homes and buildings, to industrial coatings for cars, ships, and aeroplanes.

One of the core values of AkzoNobel is sustainability. The company recognizes the impact of its operations on the environment and has made a commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices throughout its supply chain. This commitment is evident in its products, many of which are designed to be low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals.

Ideas and Innovations

Another key focus area for AkzoNobel is innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development to ensure that its products are at the forefront of the industry. One example of this is the company's Interpon Powder Coatings, which are used to protect and enhance the durability of a wide range of products, from household appliances to skyscrapers.

In recent years, AkzoNobel has also made significant strides in digital innovation. The company has developed a number of tools and platforms to help customers visualise and select paint colours, and has also invested in technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimise its operations.

Leading the company ahead

Since its founding in India more than 60 years ago, AkzoNobel India has developed everyday necessities to make people's lives more inspiring and liveable. They provide industries and consumers with crucial colour and protection as a top paints and coatings company. With a history of innovation, its cutting-edge goods and eco-friendly technologies are made to simplify life while also meeting the increasing needs of a planet that is changing quickly. They are committed to revitalising cities and communities and building a safe, vibrant world where people's quality of life is enhanced by everything the company does.

From November 2018, Mr. Rajiv Rajgopal has served as managing director of Akzo Nobel India Limited. In 2013, he began working at AkzoNobel as the Head of Sales and Marketing for Decorative Paints. In 2014, he was named Country General Manager India. Since December 2021, Mr. R. Krishna has served as the company's CFO and Full-Time Director.Krishna belongs to the Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAI). His most recent position with the AkzoNobel Group was as Regional Commercial Controller, Vehicle Refinish and Automotive for Asia. He has more than 22 years of expertise.

Upgrading the product range with time

AkzoNobel India has categorised its range of products in three types based on its customers, that is, for homeowners, for industrial users and for institutions or builders.They have a  team of dedicated experts who have developed paints with a creamy consistency and unrivalled formula that deliver consistent results with no patchiness. For homeowners, it has further categorised the range of paints based on interior, exterior, waterproofing and woodcare & metal. The institutions and builders product range mainly consist of weather resistant paint coatings. It includes solitaire stain resist, Weathershield ultra clean, Weathershield Express and Weathershield elastomeric. Coming to the industrial segment the paints are classified into Automotive & Specialty Coatings, Industrial Coatings, Powder Coatings and Marine & Protective Coatings. The variety of speciality finishes offered by AkzoNobel ensures that automobiles look attractive both inside and out and are protected from weather conditions. For both the interior and outside of automobiles, AkzoNobel has a product to suit any requirement. Door handles, climate control bezels, speedometer housings, interior trim, brand emblems, and other plastic interior parts are just a few of the interior elements for which they offer coatings. The front grill, mirror housings, bumpers, door handles, sensor housings, spoilers, roof rails, etc. are also a few examples of exterior pieces for which they offer coatings.

Challenges Faced

One of the biggest challenges facing AkzoNobel is the highly competitive nature of the paint and coatings industry. The company faces competition from a number of global players, as well as smaller, regional companies. To stay ahead of the competition, AkzoNobel has focused on building strong relationships with its customers and developing innovative products that meet their specific needs.

Another challenge facing the company is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many businesses, AkzoNobel has had to navigate significant disruptions to its supply chain and changes in customer behaviour. However, the company has responded quickly to these challenges, implementing new safety measures and adapting its operations to meet changing demand.

Looking ahead, AkzoNobel is well positioned to continue its success in the paint and coatings industry. With a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer relationships, the company is likely to remain a key player in the market for many years to come.