Brazil. AkzoNobel reported that it has launched in the Brazilian market its brand of high-performance coatings for yachts called Awlgrip. Local production and distribution will begin in July.
With 8,500 kilometers of navigable coastline and favorable conditions throughout the year, Brazil's yacht market is growing steadily. The company explained that the introduction of Awlgrip will give customers easy access to the brand's respected portfolio of premium paints, primers and varnishes.
"We are excited to bring yacht owners in Brazil a full range of quality products, design options, colors and effects," said segment manager Hans Slegtenhorst. "As a world leader in providing protection and finishing for sports and recreational boats, we can offer a complete and unrivalled coating system, from surface preparation to final layer."
The launch of the Awlgrip brand in Brazil coincides with the stop of the Volvo Ocean Race in Itajaí, on the east coast of the country. The competition's seven boats, including the team's AkzoNobel racing yacht, are covered with the company's Awlgrip and International products.
"The Volvo Ocean Race is famous all over the world and is the ultimate test of performance," continued Slegtenhorst. "It's a very special moment for us to be able to launch Awlgrip in Brazil while the event is here."
Known for its durability and consistency, the brand's portfolio in Brazil will consist of the first Epoxy Awlgrip 545, Awlcraft SE Basecoat and Awlcraft 2000 Clearcoat. The products, which require a professional application, comply with the most demanding environmental restrictions, without compromising performance.
