AMSTERDAM - AkzoNobel is launching its Awlgrip high-performance yacht coatings brand in Brazil. Local production and distribution are due to start in July.

With 8,500 kilometers of navigable coastline and favorable conditions year-round, Brazil's yacht market is growing steadily. The introduction of Awlgrip will give customers easy access to the brand's respected portfolio of premium paints, primers and clearcoats.

"We're excited to bring yacht owners in Brazil a full range of quality products, design options, colors and effects," said Segment Manager Hans Slegtenhorst. "As a global leader in supplying protection and finishing for sports and leisure boats, we can offer a complete and unrivalled coatings system, from surface preparation to topcoat."

The launch of the Awlgrip brand in Brazil coincides with the Volvo Ocean Race stopover in Itajaí, on the country's east coast. All seven boats in the competition — including the team AkzoNobel race yacht — are coated with the company's Awlgrip and International products.

"The Volvo Ocean Race is famous the world over and is the ultimate test of performance," continued Slegtenhorst. "It's a very special moment for us to be able to launch Awlgrip in Brazil while the event is here."

Known for its durability and consistency, the brand's portfolio in Brazil will consist of the Awlgrip 545 epoxy primer, Awlcraft SE Basecoat and Awlcraft 2000 Clearcoat. The products — which require professional application — meet the most demanding environmental restrictions, without compromising on performance