A guide from Information Research Limited (IRL), London, United Kingdom, presents a new market guide that updates a report published in 1998 by its sister company, IAL Consultants. The report presents a detailed, current analysis of the types of powder coatings used in Western Europe, and the applications for these powders. Markets are split by country in the report.

The report states that although the largest end-use sector for powder coatings in 1999 was exterior metal construction, the use of powder for coating automotive parts is set to grow at the fastest rate over the next five years. The report also lists major trends by raw materials, new technologies and applications, including European and country-specific trends and influences. An insight of current health and safety issues, and a technical background of the use of powder coatings, is also provided. A detailed breakdown of national and European markets and market shares of the leading manufacturers is given, alongside profiles of the European market leaders. Additionally, a directory of suppliers in each country is included.

Currently, Italy is the largest market for powder coatings in Europe, followed by Germany. This trend is predicted to continue for the next five years. Additionally, the French market is expected to show the fastest growth rates over the next five years.

Market estimates for 1999, growth rates and forecasts for 2004 by country, application, and resin type are included. The total Western European market for powder coatings is estimated to rise from 303,000 tonnes in 1999 to 383,000 tonnes in 2004.

The report draws on the databases of IRL and IAL Consultants, developed over more than 30 years of research into the coatings industry. Industry experts across Europe were contacted to supplement and verify the information.

The report is available for US$1,350 from Information Research Ltd., 109 Uxbridge Road, Ealing, London, W5 5TL; phone +44(0)20.8810.0919; fax +44(0)20.8566.4931.