AkzoNobel expands in Middle East

AkzoNobel has underlined its growth ambitions for the Middle East after signing an expanded joint venture agreement with the Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo group of companies. The new deal strengthens the existing joint venture between AkzoNobel and Kanoo, which only covers the supply of the company's International Paint brand, along with coil and packaging coatings. Under the terms of the expanded agreement, AkzoNobel will offer products from across its Performance Coatings portfolio, including professional woodcare, automotive refinish, marine, yacht, fire protection, protective and powder coatings.AkzoNobel currently employs more than 200 people across its two main plants in the Middle East. Both sites are planning increased investments to support the enlarged business portfolio, with work on a new powder coatings facility in Dubai having already started. www.akzonobel.com