AkzoNobel has formally opened its new paint plant in Ashington, UK where the company will produce its entire decorative paint range such as Dulux, Dulux Trade, Cuprinol, Polycell, Hammerite and Armstead. 

Constructed with an investment of €100m, the new paint factory uses a number of renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic cells and a biomass boiler.

In order to save water, waste and energy, the company has installed a highly automated manufacturing process at the facility.

AkzoNobel aims to slash carbon footprint by 50% per litre of paint produced at the site compared to the current factory which the new plants is replacing.

The new facility spanning over an area of 100,000 sq m will double AkzoNobel's current UK production levels to 200 million litres per annum, which would be sufficient to paint to redecorate every living room, bathroom and kitchen in the UK.

AkzoNobel CEO Thierry Vanlancker said: “This is a significant investment in the UK - a vital strategic market for us - and an important milestone for AkzoNobel.

“We continue to invest in highly innovative and sustainable production facilities to maintain and grow our leadership position, ensuring the best products for our customers in the UK and around the world.

"Our growth strategy means that we will continue to lead the paints and coatings industry, both in terms of the strongest brands and the most advanced technology."