From the inception of our business in 1866 to the manufacture of next-generation, environmentally compatible products demanded in the 21st century, we have continued to evolve. What has not changed is a tradition of quality, technology, innovation and leadership that puts our customers first.

1866

Herberts, the original producer of Standox® paint products is founded. Today, Standox is among the world’s leading producers of vehicle refinishing systems

1882

Spies Hecker® is founded, with its first facilities in London and Cologne

1904

Breakthroughs in enamel technology with Permanent® colors add speed, durability and improved appearance to vehicle finishes

1923

The automotive industry takes on new life when the first Duco® color paints are used on cars. Advances in the manufacturing of nitrocellulose lacquer make it possible to apply paint with spray guns (instead of by hand) while also reducing paint drying times from days to hours

1929

Dulux® alkyd enamel coatings take advantage of new baking and curing technologies, making them more resistant and durable

1935

The first mixing-machine tinting system is developed, leading to greater accuracy, productivity and quality

1948

Our ColorMaster™ colorimeter is commercialized, improving color design and matching for OEMs and refinishers alike

1957

Our scientists develop the first L, a, b color cube-root equation for color, which becomes part of the foundation of modern color science

1970

Imron® polyurethane enamel is introduced, bringing brilliant coatings to transportation vehicle manufacturers around the world

1980

Alesta® powder coating is launched, providing decorative finishes for customers in new industries

1982

The first waterborne OEM coatings are introduced in North America, featuring lower VOC levels and a reduced environmental impact

1984

The debut of Voltatex®, the world’s first line of insulation coatings to deliver faster hardening and better handling

1992

Our Cromax® waterborne refinish basecoat offers improved appearance while meeting more aggressive environmental goals

2000

We extend our commitment to safety and sustainability with the introduction of lead- and tin-free e-coats

2007

Our EcoConcept paint technologies are launched, making it possible for OEMs to reduce the number of coating applications

2011

Acquire Plus EFX™ is created. This advanced spectrophotometer looks deep into a paint film to gather color and flake characteristics that are the key to better color matching

2013

Axalta Coating Systems is established as the leading global company fully dedicated to coatings

2014

On November 12 Axalta becomes publicly traded, NYSE: AXTA

2016

Axalta Coating Systems celebrates 150 years in the coatings industry

2017

Axalta enters industrial wood coatings business with acquisition of Valspar North America

2018

Axalta opens new 175,000-square-foot Global Innovation Center in Philadelphia

2019

Axalta opens new regional warehouse and training facility in Western Sydney