DuPont Powder Coatings USA has introduced a certification component to its Star Coater Program, started in 2003 to reward ongoing customers. The new benefit allows members to invite DuPont to audit their operations.

Minimum scores are required to pass the audit, which is conducted by an independent auditor who judges the company on safety, part preparation, application, cure, quality, training, customer satisfaction, DuPont exclusivity and code compliance.

Certified Star Coaters can promote their businesses using the certification logo in their marketing. Two companies that have taken advantage of the program so far this year are The Jor-Mac Co. (Grafton, WI) and Industrial Powder Coating (Lincoln, NE).

"We established the Star Coater Program in an effort to assist the custom coater in facing [marketplace] demands with a continuous improvement mentality and to assist them in growing their businesses into efficient, productive and profitable business models within their markets," says Trena Benson, a custom coater business segment manager with DuPont. Star Coater members receive "Loyalty Points" for their powder purchases, special pricing on industry-related equipment and supplies, and networking and training events.