2011 has seen some exciting new technologies for the coatings industry. The titanium dioxide issue has brought forth several new strategies for optimizing TiO2 use and improving hiding in paint formulas. Colorants with no VOCs are being developed. The drive toward reducing our environmental footprint has given way to numerous new technologies and products based on renewable resources. And nanotechnology continues to evolve, providing new ways to look at old problems. It truly is an exciting time to be in this industry, and I have enjoyed learning, through our articles and at trade shows and conferences, about all of the research that is taking place.

We wrap up the year with our annual Buyers’ Guide, an in-depth compilation of the products, equipment, services, suppliers and distributors in the coatings industry. This easy-to-use resource can be referenced throughout the coming year when you need to know who to contact for specific products. Hats off to Andrea Kropp, our Inside Sales Manager, who is single handedly responsible for tracking down all of these companies and getting their information to you via this directory. She does a fantastic job.

Look for some big changes in 2012. Our January issue will kick off with a new design, as well as a completely new Web site. The new pcimag.com will have an entirely new publishing platform, featuring a multi-level navigation bar, editorial topic boxes, photo slideshows and the ability to search the entire site content using key words. For example, a search for “green technology” will pull up any news items, products, articles and upcoming events that pertain to those words.

But I don’t want to jump into the new year without savoring the rest of 2011. On behalf of the entire PCI staff, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our subscribers, advertisers and contributing authors for your continued support, and wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season. Enjoy this time with your family and friends. And may 2012 be a happy and prosperous year for us all!