AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - AkzoNobel has opened a new production line for coil coatings at its facility in Garcia, Mexico. As well as doubling current capacity, the new line will also serve local coated steel manufacturers, including Ternium, Zincacero and Galvasid.

Coil coating products that are manufactured at the site support the construction and domestic appliance sectors. In addition, the new line will produce specialty products, including metallic and "wrinkled" finishes. Volumes currently imported from the United States will now be manufactured locally in Mexico.

"The Garcia facility will allow us to participate in new regional markets," explained Miguel Rocha, Regional Sales Manager Mexico and Central America for AkzoNobel's Metal Coatings business. "We will also improve our response time and customer service, as well as giving a big sign of our commitment to the Mexican market and to our customers."