AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands ? Daimler AG has signed an agreement with AkzoNobel Performance Coatings, making the company one of the approved suppliers of vehicle refinishes to Daimler dealerships and approved body shops worldwide.

The contract covers the supply and support of AkzoNobel's Sikkens brand to the company's dealership network including Mercedes-Benz, Smart, and Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles.

The approval was achieved after extensive analysis and tests of Sikkens products and a thorough investigation of industrial and business processes run at AkzoNobel, which demonstrated compliance with the highest automotive industry standards.

Daimler said the partnership with AkzoNobel will support the company's growth plans in the worldwide body and paint business. The company added that AkzoNobel's product range and product quality is greatly respected by the industry and is delivered with a high level of service and support.

Simon Parker, Managing Director of AkzoNobel's Vehicle Refinishes business commented, "This is a very significant partnership with a leading global manufacturer. We were able to achieve this because of our truly global supply position, along with our strength and depth in innovation, color and peerless customer service."