Marty McQuade has been named vice president of the DuPont Herberts Automotive Systems division of DuPont Performance Coatings.

The Colorizer Group and Color Guild International announced an agreement to combine their purchasing functions in a new, stand-alone organization.

PPG Industries announced an agreement to acquire PRC-DeSoto International.

RPM announced a restructuring and consolidation program that will result in the closing of 23 facilities.

Donald M. Alstadt, a 55-year veteran of the Lord Corp., will retire as chairman of the board, effective Jan. 1, 2000.

Lilly Industries announced plans to expand its Wood Coatings Research and Development facilities at the company’s High Point, NC, Technology Center.

John Bernie, managing director of the Paint Research Association (PRA) since 1986, has stepped down from the post due to ill health.

Dow Chemical and Union Carbide announced a definitive merger agreement that would create a chemical-industry giant rivalling DuPont for the top spot among U.S. chemical companies.

Dock Resins said it has completed the first phase of a facilities optimization program that increased output of urethane, acrylic, waterborne and UV-cure products for coatings.

The Southern Society for Coatings Technology announced the launch of a new section of the organization, based in Nashville, TN.