PPG to restructure protective, marine coatings operations in Europe

The company said it has proposed the closure of its Geldermalsen, Netherlands, coatings manufacturing facility sometime in 2009. Production would be consolidated with facilities in Amsterdam and Deurne-Borgerhout, Belgium. Approximately 111 people are employed at the Geldermalsen site. The consolidation would create approximately 50 positions in Amsterdam and approximately 15 in Deurne-Borgerhout.



The Geldermalsen project will be submitted for consultation to the Works Council of its Dutch subsidiary, PPG Industries Netherlands BV, and would be implemented at the end of consultation procedures. The sales forces also would be reorganized to offer a single face to customers.



“Following our acquisition of SigmaKalon, we need to create one organization for our protective and marine coatings business out of the two formerly independent groups and to reduce our overall capacity,” said Tom Mauck, PPG vice president, protective and marine coatings. “This initiative will better enable us to continue to be a valued supplier to our customers. We are committed to ensuring that our customers continue to receive high-quality performance, products and services while we work through this transition.”



Mauck also said PPG will do its best to minimize the social impact of the project, particularly by offering redeployment opportunities that may be available within the group.



About PPG

Pittsburgh-based PPG is a global supplier of paints, coatings, chemicals, optical products, specialty materials, glass and fiber glass. The company has more than 150 manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates and operates in more than 60 countries. PPG shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: PPG). For more information, visit www.ppg.com.