In a recent episode of the PCI Coat It! Podcast, Courtney Bassett, Managing Editor at PCI Magazine, sat down with three leaders from Azelis Americas CASE to discuss the company's approach to the rapidly evolving coatings industry. The guests included Shiona Stewart, Jessica Silva and Jack Tilley, who each shared their unique perspectives on the importance of partnerships and innovation in the coatings sector.

Stewart, who has over 25 years of experience in the specialty chemicals industry, currently serves as the Managing Director at Azelis. She discussed the critical role that partnerships play in the company's success, particularly as a chemical distributor. Stewart emphasized the importance of strong relationships with both customers and suppliers, which allow Azelis to provide a wide range of value-added services.

“Distribution partners like Azealis offer a multitude of benefits and value to both our principal partners and our customers such as market access and business expansion. Distributors have established networks and relationships in specific regions and industries that enable fast penetration for our principals and a broader reach to new customers,” Stewart explained.

Silva, who leads the innovation lab for Azelis Americas, highlighted the company's focus on supporting new product development and formulation. With a background in material science, Silva discussed how the lab works closely with both suppliers and customers to meet their evolving needs.

“We’re really dedicated to helping them achieve their unique challenge and this furthers our relationship with them. So it’s not, you know, just an idea, it’s a tested and functional solution that we’re providing and this really puts our customer in a good position and I think best highlights our portfolio,” said Silva.

In addition to its focus on partnerships and innovation, Azelis is also prioritizing sustainability in the coatings sector. Stewart noted the growing demand for sustainable products and the company's efforts to meet these needs through the use of low-VOC formulations and sustainable feedstocks.

“In addition to those common requests, we are seeing more offerings being brought to market that include the use of sustainable feedstocks and renewable resources in place of fossil fuel resources which ultimately reduce CO2 emissions. We’re also seeing more traction and movement towards circulate, excuse me, circular economy principles which focus on recycling and reusing materials to reduce waste,” Stewart said.

Overall, the podcast provided a comprehensive look at how Azelis is leveraging its expertise and resources to drive change in the coatings industry.