AKZONOBEL OPENS FIRST YACHT PAINT CENTER IN ASIA PACIFIC
AkzoNobel's yacht coatings division has proudly opened its inaugural Yacht Paint Application Center (YPAC) in the Asia-Pacific region.
This state-of-the-art facility, situated at the prestigious Gold Coast City Marina in Coomera, aims to provide exceptional product and technical training, utilizing the latest digital paint application tools.
The YPAC enhances AkzoNobel's global technical network, offering personalized consultations and hands-on training programs for applicators and industry professionals. This initiative is designed to help them refine their skills and achieve high-quality results.
The facility includes a mezzanine-level training room, a paint mixing area, preparation bays, and an advanced spray booth, creating a comprehensive hub for product education and professional development. Applicators and distributor representatives will receive both theoretical and practical training on the yacht paint application process, covering essential topics such as preparation, priming, filling, topcoat application, maintenance, and repair of paint systems.
This announcement follows the introduction of innovative digital tools, including the Virtual Reality (VR) Spray Gun and the XpertEye headset, as well as the Awlgrip 3D Color Visualizer, all of which will enhance the training experience at YPAC.
The VR Spray Gun offers a simulated environment for applicators to practice yacht painting techniques without using actual products. Users can experiment with Awlgrip®, Interlux®, International®, or Sea Hawk® systems, adjusting spray gun settings and mastering application angles for primers, topcoats, and fouling control. Instant feedback on their technique allows users to refine their skills before working with real coatings.
Lastly, the Awlgrip 3D Color Visualizer empowers boaters and applicators by simplifying the process of selecting the perfect color for their boats. Using advanced algorithms, this innovative tool provides users with a 3D virtual representation of how their boat could look, offering instant access to tens of thousands of colors from the extensive Awlgrip color database.
Watch the Awlgrip 3D Color Visualizer how-to video:
“The opening of the Yacht Paint Application Center in Asia-Pacific reinforces our commitment to meeting the specific needs of our customers in this rapidly growing market. With personalized services, product expertise, and cutting-edge technology, we are uniquely positioned as a partner of choice for any type of project.”
Simon Knight, Regional Sales Manager - AkzoNobel’s yacht coatings
“Our focus is to empower professional applicators with the knowledge and skills they need to excel. Following on from the success of our YPAC’s in North America and Europe, this new facility will offer comprehensive training programs that cover everything from theoretical paint knowledge to innovative application techniques. We’re excited to be the center for professional development in the region, helping applicators, distributors, retailers and yards stay ahead of the curve.”
Kane Barfoot, Regional Technical Services Coordinator - AkzoNobel’s yacht coatings
In conclusion, AkzoNobel’s commitment to enhancing training and support for the yacht coatings industry marks a significant step forward in delivering quality and innovation.
