Earlier this year, AkzoNobel and Axalta announced a $25 billion merger that combined the major refinish brands. Since then, many collision repairers have wondered how the merger will impact the companies and the industry.
Building relationships and reach
An Axalta spokesperson said the combined company will provide a full spectrum offering of coatings solutions and enhance its technological capabilities and research platforms across end markets to drive continued innovation. “In addition, the combined company will have greater geographic scale and broader commercial reach, positioning us to meet customers where they are and better serve them and their business,” he explained.
An AkzoNobel spokesperson added that the merger will create opportunities for deeper, more strategic relationships with suppliers and business partners, leveraging increased scale and global reach.
Until the transaction closes, expected in late 2026 to early 2027, the representatives said the companies will continue to operate independently, and nothing will change in terms of how they work with suppliers and business partners.
The Axalta spokesperson added that they will continue building on their existing plans. “This means there are no immediate impacts for Axalta customers, and current pricing and distribution structures remain unchanged,” he said.
“We’ll continue to deliver the quality products our customers have come to expect,” noted AkzoNobel’s spokesperson.
Creating a new leader in the industry
Together, Axalta’s spokesperson said that the companies will create a leader in the coatings industry. “With a highly attractive financial profile, industry-leading innovation capabilities and a balanced global footprint spanning over 160 countries, the combined company will enhance innovation, develop new capabilities and further strengthen customer relationships,” he said.
Since announcing the merger, Axalta team members have heard a great deal of excitement from customers and other stakeholders. “As the industry continues to grow and evolve, our combination with AkzoNobel enables us to do the same, with a sharper competitive edge and new avenues and opportunities for growth,” said the company’s spokesperson. “Bringing together our complementary portfolios of leading brands will create a premier global coatings leader with the ability to create substantial value for our stakeholders.”
AkzoNobel’s spokesperson said the merged company will be a global leader in paints and coatings and will hold positions in key segments. “Through increased local presence in key geographies, AkzoNobel and Axalta will be better enabled to accelerate growth in high potential markets and deliver increased value to customers worldwide,” he said.
Stacey Phillips Ronak