The European Commission has approved Dow Chemical Co.’s merger with Union Carbide.

Columbia Paint & Coatings has acquired its longtime dealer Columbia Paint & Decorating.

Alcoa completed the acquisition of Reynolds Metals.

Several major elastomers-industry suppliers said they planned to launch a global Internet marketplace.

PPG Industries announced several management appointments, including the naming of Dick Beuke as vice president, Architectural Coatings.

The Lubrizol has acquired RPM Inc.’s Alox metalworking additive business.

The Tikkurila Group has completed negotiations to acquire 100% of Tikkurila Baltcolor Sp. z.o.o.

PPG Industries announced the sale of minority interests in three Chinese glass businesses to Asahi Glass of Tokyo.

The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) announced the publication of “A Survey of the United States Industrial Maintenance Coatings Market.”

A more “spiritual, meditative feeling” will lead to a shift toward lighter colors “inspired by emotions, dreams and the senses,” the Color Marketing Group (CMG) says.