AkzoNobel invests USD 60M to expand production across North America 

USA – AkzoNobel is moving forward with a USD 60 million manufacturing investment program aimed at strengthening and expanding its production capabilities throughout North America.

The company is carrying out capacity-expansion upgrades at its Powder Coatings sites in Reading, Pennsylvania; Warsaw, Indiana; and the Monterrey region of Mexico. 

At the Reading facility, which produces roughly 45% of AkzoNobel’s North American powder coating batches, the work includes new production lines, bonding technology, automated process controls, and pilot manufacturing capabilities. 

In combination with the nearby Flying Hills research and development center, these enhancements are expected to accelerate the transition of next-generation powder coating formulations from development into commercial production.

In Warsaw, Indiana, AkzoNobel has converted an existing building into a modern manufacturing facility equipped with advanced automation. 

Meanwhile, the Monterrey, Mexico site has added a new acrylics production building.

Together, these initiatives are increasing manufacturing flexibility, broadening regional production capabilities, and supporting customers in automotive, next-generation mobility, battery systems, energy storage, and other emerging sectors.

AkzoNobel is also investing in its workforce by providing technical training and upskilling programs to prepare employees to operate the new manufacturing technologies. 

By combining expanded capacity, modern production systems, and a highly skilled team, the company is reinforcing its North American Powder Coatings network to meet current customer demands while positioning itself for the future of mobility.

Jeff Jirak, Managing Director of AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business and member of the company’s Executive Committee, said, “Manufacturing continues to evolve rapidly, and our customers expect partners who are investing alongside them.” 

“This investment strengthens our North American manufacturing network, expands our advanced production capabilities and reinforces our long-term commitment to helping customers innovate, improve supply chain resilience and bring high-performance products to market.”

This move comes after the company, recently announced plans to shut its Nashville powder coatings manufacturing plant by the end of 2026, eliminating 75 jobs. 

According to AkzoNobel, its separate Nashville regional headquarters, home to more than 117 employees in sales, marketing, finance, and business support, will remain open and unaffected.

The closure affects only the Nashville Powder Coatings manufacturing operation, not AkzoNobel’s broader presence in the city. 

Production currently handled in Nashville will be shifted to AkzoNobel’s powder coatings facilities in Reading, Pennsylvania; Warsaw, Indiana; and Monterrey, Mexico. AkzoNobel does not expect the transition to disrupt supply to customers in North America.

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