AkzoNobel champions the expo

Collision Repair Expo Preview

As a major sponsor of the Collision Repair Expo, AkzoNobel is preparing an exciting and innovative display of it new and proven products.

AkzoNobel will have a number of major innovations specially prepared for the Collision Repair Expo, highlighted by a McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 race car on its stand.

AkzoNobel’s general manager and director, Joe McFadries, says the company is very excited to be major sponsor of the Collision Repair Expo 2011.

“Preparations for the event are well underway and we are looking forward to unveiling our latest Sikkens innovations,” McFadries says. “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to demonstrate our support to the industry and to showcase our extensive product portfolio.”

Ready to take the spotlight is the Sikkens Autoclear LV Exclusive. Developed for the prestigious European luxury car market, this high-gloss clearcoat can make minor scratches disappear just by sitting in the sun. The efficiencies that Sikkens Colorbuild Plus provides, having a primer that closely matches any topcoat, is further enhanced by the addition of its own low VOC ancillary products.

It features better new panel adhesion, sand-ability, straight over plastic application, all with an extended wet-on-wet application window.

The third new Sikkens innovation to make its first debut at the Collision Repair Expo will be the Sikkens Autocryl Plus LV. The latest generation of single stage top coat, not only is the Autocryl Plus LV European VOC compliant, but it also returns a deep rich hard gloss. With easy colour matching, easy to use and economical, this is a fantastic addition to the Sikkens Eco-Logical range, McFadries says.

Live demonstrations of the company’s Eco-Logical low VOC system and the latest product innovations will be showcased in the Lowbake spray booths, utilising both conventional and infra-red technologies.

Acoat Selected consultants will be around the Sikkens stand. The Acoat Selected program has been equipping bodyshops with the knowledge to make their business run more efficiently. Acoat Selected consultants have the expertise across all aspects of the business – from front desk, to work shop floor, to the back office.

Another highlight at this year’s expo will be the International Seminar Series. McFadries says AkzoNobel is excited to be hosting two international pioneers of lean manufacturing principles – UK-based Doug Kirk from AkzoNobel’s global services business and Michael Giarrizzo Jnr of DCR Systems in the US (see below).