Despite a soft economy, all of the top 10 coatings manufacturers increased sales over the previous year. This feature discusses the top 10 and some of their top stories.

When California's Rule 1132 was adopted, HON Industries, like other manufacturers throughout the state, had to cut its VOC emissions by 65% before the law took effect. The office furniture manufacturer cut emissions by 70%, winning its environmental battle as successfully as it has overcome California's volatile energy markets and issues related to foreign competition.

To speed up production, eliminate odor and reduce VOCs, Martin Engineering switched to a waterborne coating. The new paint system also has reduced paint usage and cleanup.

At every industry trade show and association annual meeting, private conversations and formal presentations often focus on the economy.

Open for business since only 1990, custom coater Cost Effective Coatings has expanded five times to maintain its efficiency and competitiveness. It also provides more than coating services.

In an area of the country that is reeling from manufacturing plant closings and outsourcing, one cabinetmaker has been experiencing dizzying growth.<

News and Views from the Coatings Community

Companies reveal what types of R&D coatings projects are slated, estimated budgets, primary research objectives and more in Industrial Paint & Powder's annual survey of coatings manufacturers.

Join the editors of Industrial Paint & Powder as we take a year-long journey through 80 years of coatings industry history-our history and yours.

In this 17th annual survey, finishers indicate their level of confidence in the coming year, operating capacities, spending plans and more.