Unless previously agreed in writing, Coatings SA owns all rights to all contributions, whether image or text.
SOURCES
Shutterstock, supplied images, editorial staff.
DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS
Felicity Garbers
Email: felicity.garbers@newmedia.co.za
UPDATE YOUR DETAILS HERE
Email: register@media24.com
Web: www.diytradenews.co.za
PUBLISHING TEAM
GENERAL MANAGER Dev Naidoo
PRODUCTION MANAGER Angela Silver
ART DIRECTOR David Kyslinger
DIGITAL MANAGER Varushka Padayachi
Johannesburg Office:
Building 13, The Woodlands Office Park 20 Woodlands Drive, Ground Floor, Woodmead, Sandton PO Box 784698, Sandton 2146
PRINTING
Printed and Bound by CTP PrintersCape Town
ontents
News: Round up of the latest from local shores
News: Plascon gets zesty
News: Revolutionary vehicle repair
Feature: Preparing for a lead-free future
Feature: Paint is vital to retail success
Company Profile: Akani Paints
Company Profile: Lejn – a leader in paint mixing
Directory: SAPMA Member Directory
Simply the best!
As I pen down my final Editor’s Letter, I reflect on the remarkable journey we have shared. With your unwavering support, Coatings SA has continued to bring you insightful analyses, innovative trends, and stories from the paint industry across Southern Africa.
This issue is particularly special as it encapsulates the dynamic changes and challenges facing our industry today.
From Akani Paints’ entrepreneurial journey to become a beacon of community growth and business success to the regulatory challenges surrounding lead-free paints and the collective efforts towards more sustainable practices. These stories are not just reports; they are milestones charting the direction our industry is headed.
We explore the strategic opportunities paints present for retailers, while we take a quick glimpse into news from the continent’s potential as it juggles expansion and sustainability. Meanwhile, the recent lead-free workshop held at the SABS highlights the critical importance of adhering to global regulations for safer products.
As I bid adieu as your editor, I am
filled with gratitude for the vibrant community you have helped build around the magazine. It has been a privilege to contribute to a publication that fosters dialogue, innovation, and growth within our field. I am excited to see how the magazine evolves in the hands of its future stewards. Although my journey here comes to an end, the remarkable stories of the paint industry will continue to unfold within these pages. Thank you for being a part of this adventure. Let us keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards for excellence and sustainability.
Warm regards, Johann Gerber
Johann Gerber
SAPMA: Leading the way in 2025
The South African Paint Manufacturing Association (SAPMA) remains a pivotal entity for the local paint and coatings industry. As 2025 unfolds, SAPMA drives initiatives to support members, grow the industry, and tackle market challenges.
SAPMA actively adapts to new regulations, fostering dialogue between manufacturers and regulators to support sustainability and innovation. It provides key industry insights, helping members navigate market shifts. Webinars and workshops serve as vital knowledge exchange and professional development.
ADDING VALUE THROUGH TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT
A cornerstone of SAPMA's value to its members is its focus on training and workforce development.
The association has launched a series of workshops aimed
at enhancing skills in technical production, safety standards, and environmental compliance.
These workshops aim to ensure that member companies stay competitive and compliant, thus enhancing their market position.
The SAPMA Training Centre,
functioning as an incubation hub, is a testament to this commitment. It has recently expanded its course offerings to include modern painting techniques and sustainable practices, reflecting the industry's shift towards greener solutions.
Looking ahead, SAPMA is keen on fortifying industry collaborations globally to drive tech exchange and market access for local manufacturers. Talks are underway to formalise partnerships introducing innovation to South Africa’s paint sector.
SAPMA remains a pillar of industry growth and advocacy, ensuring a year of strategic progress for its members. c
Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
We are proud to be associated with leading paint manufacturers & have a key focus on EXPORT markets in Africa. We boast a team of highly skilled polymer chemists in the laboratory as well as on the plant to ensure quality control and superior standards of resin. Adding to the mix is our MAINTENANCE team of qualified engineers, fitters, welders & electricians. Our high-quality polymers are the key to vibrant decorative, industrial, automotive, and other coatings. Our state-of-the art laboratory boasts cutting-edge technology and a team of R&D chemists who endeavour to develop products for our customers.
The vision is to RE-DEFINE the COATINGS INDUSTRY with our QCCP (Quality, Consistency & Competitive Prices) THEORY. Are you looking for lightning-fast delivery? Our 20-metric ton bulk delivery vehicle guarantees your order will arrive within 24-72 hours.
• Long, Medium & Short Oil Alkyds
• Urethane Alkyds & Oils
• Hydroxy Functional Acrylics
• Thermoplastic Acrylics
• Speciality Alkyds
• Short & Medium chain stopped Alkyds.
• Styrenated & Acrylated Alkyds
• Amino Resins (Urea & Melamine Formaldehyde)
• Thermoset Acrylics
• Saturated Polyesters
Experience the MAGIC with SYNTHETIC POLYMERS!
SA Paint industry update
The South African paint industry is continuously evolving, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and local manufacturing developments. This overview highlights the latest trends, product launches, and regulatory changes that are shaping the industry landscape in 2025.
ECO-FRIENDLY
There has been a notable increase in the demand for eco-friendly paints across the South African market. Despite a downturn in the decorative paint segment, consumers and manufacturers alike are pivoting towards sustainable and environmentally safe products. Eco-friendly paints, which minimise volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other hazardous substances, are gaining traction both for residential and commercial applications.
A significant development in the local manufacturing scene is the burgeoning focus on the production of titanium dioxide. Nyanza Light Metals has initiated the construction of a plant dedicated to this essential pigment, which play a vital role in enhancing the quality and durability of paint. This move is aimed at reducing dependency on imported raw materials while supporting the local economy and supply chains.
REGULATORY AND COMPLIANCE
In response to global and local calls for safer consumer products, South Africa has introduced new regulations concerning lead content in paints and coating materials. This regulatory advancement is part of a broader effort to ensure consumer safety and align with international safety standards.
Manufacturers are adapting to these new guidelines, promoting innovation in product formulation to comply with health and safety requirements.
Packaging innovations are another area of focus, with companies exploring sustainable packaging solutions to reduce their environmental footprint.
Recyclable and biodegradable materials are being adopted increasingly, resonating well with eco-conscious consumers and contributing to a brand's sustainability narrative.
The industry is not without its challenges, such as the continuous potential of power outages, logistical delays at ports, and rising operational costs. These factors are forcing companies to innovate operationally and invest in renewable energy solutions to ensure business continuity and minimise disruptions.
The South African paint industry's journey through 2025 reflects a commitment to sustainability, local production, and regulatory compliance in response to both market demands and global standards. With ongoing investments in eco-friendly products and raw materials, the industry is well-positioned to tackle current challenges while seizing new opportunities for growth and innovation. c
DISCOVER THE CHEMIPOL DIFFERENCE
CHOOSE US
INDUSTRY FOCUS:
Distribution of chemical raw materials.
TARGET INDUSTRIES:
Coatings, plastics and ink industries in Southern Africa.
ESTABLISHED: 1999
PARTNERSHIP:
Viewing customers and suppliers as partners for long-term and sustainable growth.
COLLABORATION:
Working closely with customers & suppliers to foster mutual success.
At Chemipol Solutions, we’re more than just a raw material distributor – we’re your trusted partner in the paints, coatings, and inks industries. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and brand consciousness sets us apart as a premier supplier of raw materials sourced from leading global manufacturers.
COATINGS INDUSTRY PRINCIPALS
Zesty colours for a phygital age
Online ecosystems are in a constant state of evolution. Algorithms shift, social media platforms rise and fade, and artificial intelligence reveals new ways to engage in cyberspace. As digital culture progresses, the lines between virtual and physical environments blur, creating a reality that is uniquely its own. In response, Plascon has unveiled a dynamic colour family, titled Bright, that forms part of its hybridity-themed 2025 colour forecast.
The Bright colour family stands out by exploring the intersection of similar contrasting realities, showcasing a mix of soft neons and vivid fluorescents that reflect today’s zeitgeist. The colours draw inspiration from the Dopamine Decor trend, a playful and personalised approach to interior styling that boosts mood. Psychological research shows that light and bright tones can evoke positive chemical responses in our brains, enhancing the production of dopamine: a neurotransmitter crucial for reward, motivation, and regulating mood and movement.
Yellow, often linked to happiness, is exemplified by Crazy Daisy (Y4-A1-1). This colour, reminiscent of emojis or egg yolks, brings a lighthearted touch, much like the electric orange of Good Day Sunshine (O6-A1-1) and the zesty green of Stylish Lime (Y7-A1-1). Leveraging the power of contrasts, this colour family includes five pared-back tones that carry the same extroverted essence. The pastel peach of Morning Crescent (O6-A2-1) and the light lemon of Namaqua Daisy (Y4-A2-1)
offer soft yet striking variations of their more saturated counterparts.
“The need for uplifting interiors is just as relevant in South Africa as it is worldwide. Bright colours that celebrate our nation’s rich cultural tapestry foster a strong sense of belonging and identity, while also instilling a sense of hope in a challenging socioeconomic environment,” says Plascon brand manager Kristel Dreyer, adding, “In times of difficulty, these bold colours can serve as a reminder of resilience and vitality, encouraging communities to embrace positivity and envision a brighter future.
Locals are increasingly incorporating bold hues into their homes and commercial spaces, and we’re excited to see how this trend continues to evolve in the coming year.”
Plascon’s Bright colour family celebrates unexpected pairings and captivating tones that are both versatile and eye-catching, poised to make a statement as accents or infuse a space with bright intensity. Lapis Blue (B6B1-1) offers a cool, chalky alternative to cobalt and serves as a grounding element, alongside the rich, dazzling
Passion Red (101) and the strong eggplant hue of Plum Sensation (P4-B1-1). Together, these colours are designed to replace traditional black or navy and introduce a contemporary twist to the basics.
In contrast, the soft lavender of Rain Lily (P1-B2-2), the subtle yellow of Frozen Limeade (Y7-A2-3) and the gentle Green Glass (81) provide fresh and invigorating alternatives to traditional neutrals. These modern interpretations of pastel colours should not be underestimated; they have the ability to completely transform the atmosphere of any room or outdoor space where you might not expect to see them.
The Bright colour family invites you to embrace the brilliant interplay of colour in your space. Whether you’re drawn to the magnetic exuberance of the intense brights or the soft elegance of their counterparts, Plascon’s vision inspires you to reimagine your surroundings and transform them into unique expressions of joy and creativity. c
For more information, , visit www.plasconcolour.co.za.
Nouryon opens office in Saudi Arabia
Nouryon, a speciality chemicals company, announced the opening of its new office in Al Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. The new office is in the prestigious Al Abdulkarim Tower, the tallest commercial tower in the Eastern Province, in the heart of one of the largest cities in the Gulf. This move marks a significant milestone in its commitment to expanding its operations and better serving its customers in the Middle East.
"We are very pleased to inaugurate our new office in Al Dhahran, reinforcing our commitment to the Saudi Arabia market and the Middle East," said Sobers Sethi, senior vice president Emerging Markets and China at Nouryon, adding, "This strategic investment will support our customer service, logistics, and supply chain capabilities, as well as our growth ambitions in the region."
The new Al Dhahran office will primarily function as a sales hub.
region, including packaging, polymer specialties, building and construction, oilfield, and personal care.
"The opening of this office is a testament to our dedication to the Saudi Arabia market.
By localising our operations and getting closer to our customers, we are better positioned to understand and meet their needs,” said Ameer Al Majed, general manager at Nouryon Saudi Arabia.
“Our focus on customer centricity and providing tailored solutions will drive our growth and success in this dynamic region."
The company operates in Saudi Arabia as a joint venture with Yusuf bin Ahmed Kanoo Company, further strengthening its presence and capabilities in the region.
With operations in Saudi Arabia for more than 25 years, Nouryon established Nouryon Saudi Arabia for chemicals as the legal entity in 2021 to further expand its operations and serve as a hub for its employees in Saudi Arabia. c
For more information about Neuron, visit www.nouryon.com.
Navigating the logistical maze
In recent years, South Africa's raw material importers have faced an increasingly complex set of logistical challenges. As the global economy evolves, these challenges are becoming more pronounced, affecting supply chains and cost structures unprecedentedly.
luctuating oil prices, unpredictable inflation rates, and shifting trade policies present ongoing economic uncertainties. These factors directly impact the cost and stability of importing raw materials. Volatile currency exchange rates further worsen these challenges, affecting pricing strategies and profitability, especially the shipping of goods.
In addition, shipping delays have become a significant concern, driven by geopolitical tensions and natural disasters, which often necessitate rerouting of shipments. This, coupled with inadequate port facilities and poor road networks, compounds transit challenges, leading
Career Opportunity
LOCATION: Windhoek, Namibia
PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
Pushing the boundaries of paint technology, working in a laboratory setting to conduct research on new or existing paint formulas to support the achievement of the company's business goals and objectives. Typical projects include new product development, modification of existing products, raw material evaluations, benchmarking studies, sample preparations, colour matching, manufacturing process review and specification testing.
QUALIFICATIONS, COMPENTENCIES AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:
BSc Degree in Chemistry or related field. 10 years of experience in decorative paint formulation and development. Knowledge of Enamels, Lacquers, Polyurethane and Acrylic based paints. Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, rheology, pigment dispersion and properties like Gloss, Dry time, Colour stability, Flexibility, Adhesion etc.
recruitment@neopaints.com
The dangers of lead in paint
Lead, a toxic metal, poses severe health risks, and its presence in paint has been a concern for health organisations worldwide. South Africa's recent strides in regulating lead in paint are not only a crucial public health measure but also align with global standards to combat the dangers of lead exposure.
Lead-based paints are hazardous, particularly to children and pregnant women. When paint deteriorates, it creates lead dust that can be ingested or inhaled. Exposure to lead can result in severe health issues such as cognitive impairments, developmental delays, and various physiological disorders. For children, it can lead to lower IQ levels, attention-related behaviour problems, and decreased academic achievement.
South Africa's new regulations on lead in paint are pivotal in mitigating these health risks. By setting stringent limits on the allowable lead content in paints, the country aims to reduce the prevalence of lead poisoning. This move is part of a broader global initiative led by organisations like the WHO and UNEP,
to eliminate lead in paint and safeguard public health.
Globally, many nations have embraced strict lead paint regulations. By January 2024, about 48% of countries had legally binding controls on lead paint. Countries with robust regulations are better positioned to protect their populations. South Africa, through its recent regulatory enhancements, is striving to meet these international standards, positioning itself as a leader in public health advocacy in Africa.
In comparison to other African nations, South Africa's proactive approach sets a benchmark in the continent's efforts to combat lead exposure.
The emphasis on regulatory compliance and public education positions the country among the global frontrunners in lead safety.
By enforcing comprehensive lead regulations, South Africa aims to minimise lead exposure, thereby improving health outcomes significantly. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to aligning with global health standards and reducing the burden of lead-related illnesses. As these regulations take hold, South Africa sets an example of how concerted action can lead to healthier communities and a safer environment. c
In comparison to other African nations, South Africa's proactive approach sets a benchmark in the continent's efforts to combat lead exposure.
Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
Revolutionising vehicle repair
AkzoNobel has unveiled Sikkens Autowave Optima, a next-generation waterborne basecoat designed to transform the vehicle repair industry by dramatically enhancing productivity and sustainability in bodyshops. Highlighted as a game-changer, the product enables up to 50% faster application times compared to traditional methods while simultaneously cutting energy costs and carbon emissions by up to 60%.
Key to its efficiency is the ability to achieve coverage with just 1.5 layers of paint, delivering an average material savings of 15%. This onestop application process simplifies workflows, requiring only a single trip to the spray booth, which also addresses challenges such as skill shortages within the industry. Sikkens Autowave Optima is versatile and suitable for all types of repairs and climate conditions.
Patrick Bourguignon, director of AkzoNobel’s Automotive and
Specialty Coatings, underscored its sustainability and efficiency, noting that the basecoat is a ‘step-change
for the car refinishes industry’. Paired with AkzoNobel’s premium fillers and clearcoats, it meets top-quality OEM standards while enhancing overall system performance.
Developed in collaboration with AkzoNobel’s scientists and select customers under the Sikkens and Lesonal brands, the product will roll out in various markets globally in the coming months. With this launch, AkzoNobel reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the automotive refinishing sector. c
Photo credit: Getty Images/Man_With_No_Name
because we care because we care
An APEO free, Water-borne Pure An APEO free, Water-borne Pure
Acrylic Copolymer Emulsion, designed
Acrylic Copolymer Emulsion, designed for manufacturing of Zero VOC environmentally friendly coatings. for manufacturing of Zero VOC environmentally friendly coatings.
Application : Application :
Enviro-cryl PA68 is recommended for use in the manufacturing of Zero to Low
Enviro-cryl PA68 is recommended for use in the manufacturing of Zero to Low VOC, high quality decorative matt, and sheen interior and exterior wall coatings. VOC, high quality decorative matt, and sheen interior and exterior wall coatings.
Features : Features :
h e r w i t h r e l e v a n t e n v i r o n m e n t c o n s i d e r a t i o n s . E n v i r o - c r y l P A 6 8 i s a h i g h p e r f o r m a n c e , f i n e p a r t i c l e s i z e e m u l s i o n p o s s e s s i n g E n v i r o - c r y l P A 6 8 i s a h i g h p e r f o r m a n c e , f i n e p a r t i c l e s i z e e m u l s i o n p o s s e s s i n g
e x c e l l e n t b i n d i n g p o w e r , w a t e r r e s i s t a n c e a n d a l k a l i r e s i s t a n c e . e x c e l l e n t b i n d i n g p o w e r , w a t e r r e s i s t a n c e a n d a l k a l i r e s i s t a n c e .
E n v i r o - c r y l P A 6 8 e n a b l e s f o r m u l a t o r s t o d e s i g n a w i d e v a r i e t y o f d i f f e r e n t p a i n t s
E n v i r o - c r y l P A 6 8 e n a b l e s f o r m u l a t o r s t o d e s i g n a w i d e v a r i e t y o f d i f f e r e n t p a i n t s u s i
Processing : Processing :
Z
Z
A
F
C I T / M I T F r e e C I T / M I T F r e e
Z e r o V O C Z e r o V O C
A
H
Enviro-cryl PA68 should be used in a traditional Enviro-cryl PA68 should be used in a traditional manner in paint manufacture. The pigments and manner in paint manufacture. The pigments and extenders should be dispersed in an alkaline extenders should be dispersed in an alkaline medium using dispersants and wetting aids, medium using dispersants and wetting aids, prior to the addition of binder. For the production prior to the addition of binder. For the production of Zero VOC and Environmentally Friendly of Zero VOC and Environmentally Friendly coatings, it is suggested that Enviro-cryl PA68 be coatings, it is suggested that Enviro-cryl PA68 be used in conjunction with Sancryl Environmentally used in conjunction with Sancryl Environmentally friendly additives and products. friendly additives and products.
SA paint industry prepares for a lead-free future
The South African paint industry stands on the brink of a transformative shift as new regulations on lead content in paints are set to take effect in May 2025. In anticipation, the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), the National Department of Health (NDoH), and Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) co-hosted a workshop in November 2024 at the SABS campus in Pretoria.
The workshop provided a platform for clarifying the new regulatory framework, offering technical guidance on reformulation, and addressing manufacturers' concerns about compliance and enforcement. Featuring insights from government officials, industry leaders, and non-profit organisations, the event emphasised collaboration as the key to navigating this significant change.
WHY THE NEW REGULATION MATTERS
The updated legislation significantly reduces permissible lead content in paint from 600 parts per million (ppm) to just 90 ppm. Manufacturers have one year from the regulation’s publication to comply, with an additional one year to meet updated labelling requirements.
At the workshop, Ramsook Loykisoonlal from the NDoH highlighted the health risks associated with lead exposure, particularly for children. He described the regulation as a critical step in safeguarding public health and outlined its key requirements:
• Compliance Declaration Certificates: Mandatory for manufacturers and importers
• Labelling requirements: GHS compliance, trade and production details, and clear statements of conformity (twoyear grace period)
• Prohibitions: Non-compliant products cannot be exported or donated. Labels not endorsed by the NDoH and misleading statements like 'totally leadfree' or 'no lead' are not allowed.
Enforcement will be stringent, with severe penalties for non-compliance, including fines, imprisonment, and business closures for repeat offenders. Charlotte Potts, program manager at LEEP, noted the global momentum behind eliminating lead in paints, with 94 countries now enforcing legally binding restrictions. She emphasised the economic and human health costs of lead exposure, adding that LEEP provides free technical assistance to help manufacturers reformulate their products.
TACKLING TECHNICAL CHALLENGES
Phillip Green, a paint technologist, discussed the challenges of replacing lead chromates, valued for their durability, opacity, and affordability. He explored alternative pigments — organic, inorganic, and hybrid — while acknowledging the financial pressures on manufacturers.
SABS representatives, including Phollen Murivhula, encouraged manufacturers to join technical committees revising standards to ensure practical and comprehensive guidelines. Tholozani Ngcobo elaborated on the benefits of independent product certification, including enhanced consumer confidence and avenues for redress. Dr Mlando Mvubu provided insights into lead testing protocols, stressing the rising demand for analysis as the enforcement deadline approaches.
Dr Mlando Mvubu, Ms Tara Benn, Ms Phollen Murivhula, Mr Clinton Naidoo, Ms Charlotte Potts, Mr Thokozani Ngcobo and Ms Itumeleng Mphahlele.
COLLABORATIVE SOLUTIONS
The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders. Tara Benn of the South African Paint Manufacturers Association (SAPMA) reiterated SAPMA’s commitment to promoting sustainable, ethical practices and fostering public-private partnerships. Manufacturers raised concerns about limited technical expertise, supply chain challenges, and the financial impact of reformulation. Clinton Naidoo, managing director of Stafford Chemicals, expressed the need for cost-effective solutions and careful consideration of technical factors such as tint, opacity, flow, resistance, colour range, and specific gravity in finding suitable replacements for lead chromates.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
The workshop concluded with a rallying call for immediate action. As Itumeleng Mphahlele from SABS stated, “The statistics show why this is necessary — our focus now must be on the ‘how.’ Let’s not let today’s engagement be the last step. Make it happen.”
Manufacturers were urged to prioritise preparation, leveraging available resources like LEEP’s impartial support for testing and technical reformulation. With the May 2025 enforcement deadline approaching, manufacturers should focus on:
• Understanding the regulation: Familiarise yourself with testing, labelling, and compliance requirements
• Seeking technical support: Take advantage of LEEP’s free guidance
• Engaging with industry bodies: Join SAPMA and SABS committees to stay informed and contribute to standards revisionPlanning ahead: Adapt supply chains and manufacturing processes to ensure seamless reformulation.
By proactively addressing these challenges, South Africa’s paint industry can successfully transition to lead-free products, protecting public health and maintaining its global reputation. c
For more information or to access LEEP’s support, visit LEEP’s website or contact SAPMA.
Q: Do paint manufacturers need to conduct their own testing of products?
A: According to section 4 of the Regulations under 'Compliance Declaration Certification’, manufacturers must ensure compliance. This includes testing their products for the first batch as well as in cases of material change.
In some other countries, manufacturers ensure compliance by reviewing safety data sheets (SDS) of raw materials. However, SDS are only a form of hazard communication as per the GHS and are not authorised by any regulatory authority.
Q: What test method and specification is needed?
A: Testing specifications are stipulated in Annexure B of the Regulations.
Q: What test equipment is acceptable (eg, XRF, AAS, ICP-AES)?
A: XRFs are primarily used for screening purposes, but laboratory testing and analysis are needed for compliance. The choice of equipment depends on the accredited laboratory conducting the tests.
Q: What counts as ‘first production batch’ and ‘material change’?
A: Testing the first production batch or lot suffices to meet the requirement, ensuring that testing is not burdensome or duplicative. A 'material change' refers to any modification in design, manufacturing processes, or source of components that could affect compliance with the 90ppm total lead limit standard.
Q: Do manufacturers need to test every colour in extensive tinting systems?
A: Manufacturers need only test the first production batch or lot as per the Regulations, which reduces the burden and costs associated with testing.
COMMON QUESTIONS FROM MANUFACTURERS
Delegates that attended the workshop
Unlocking the potential of paint
Paint might not be the first product that comes to mind for high-margin retail, but its ability to boost profits and help retailers carve out a unique niche is undeniable. This article delves into how and why paint should be an essential part of a retail strategy.
The paint industry is witnessing robust growth, driven by the increasing trend in home improvements and renovations. Consumers are more engaged in DIY projects, driven by the ease of online tutorials and the desire to personalise
their spaces. As a result, the demand for paint and related products is on the rise, presenting a lucrative opportunity for retailers.
From a financial perspective, paint offers a high-margin product with a
strong cost-to-revenue ratio. Retailers can capitalise on several strategies to maximise these margins:
Exclusive brands and premium lines: Retailers can partner with manufacturers to offer exclusive paint brands or
premium lines with higher profit margins. Consumers are often willing to pay more for superior quality or specialty features.
Private label opportunities: Developing in-house private label paint can increase brand loyalty and offer higher margins. Retailers control the pricing and branding, resulting in a valuable differentiation factor.
Selling accessories: Complementary products, from brushes and rollers to protective coverings, not only enhance the shopping experience but also increase the average transaction value when bundled with paint.
DRIVING FOOT TRAFFIC
Seasonal promotions: Home improvement often aligns with seasons or certain holidays. By timing promotional events, such as sales and workshops, during these peak seasons, retailers can significantly boost their store traffic.
Cross-selling: Paint naturally pairs with other home improvement products, from furniture to decorative items. Retailers can create bundle deals or coordinated marketing campaigns, encouraging customers to purchase a suite of products rather than just paint alone.
Understanding and targeting niche markets is critical. Retailers should
explore the following areas:
Specialty paints: Eco-friendly paints, anti-bacterial finishes, and colour customisation cater to niche consumer demands. By offering unique products, retailers can attract specific customer segments and build a dedicated customer base.
Educating consumers: Hosting workshops or DIY demos can position a retail store as a hub of expertise. By educating and engaging customers,
retailers can foster brand loyalty and drive repeat business.
Successfully integrating paint into a retail strategy requires thoughtful marketing and merchandising.
In-store displays: Creative and engaging displays can capture consumer interest. Using intriguing colour patterns and showcasing before-and-after transformations can provide customers with immediate inspiration.
Digital engagement: Leveraging social media and digital platforms enhances consumer reach beyond the store's physical limitations. Online promotions, engaging content, and virtual demos can drive online shoppers to visit the store.
In conclusion, paint is not just a necessity — it is an opportunity. With well-thought-out strategies and an understanding of consumer behaviour, paint can significantly add to a retailer's margins and position them as leaders in the home improvement segment. By unlocking the potential of paint, retailers can create vibrant opportunities for growth and customer engagement. c *Disclaimer: The article was compiled with the help of Toqan.ai
Photo
Akani Paints: Pioneering innovation in South Africa’s paint industry
In a male-dominated industry, Cate Oliphant has emerged as a visionary entrepreneur, transforming challenges into opportunities. Her company, Akani Paints, is not just another player in the paint manufacturing sector; it is a beacon of innovation and resilience, particularly in the rural communities of Limpopo, South Africa.
Olifant transitioned into the construction industry in 2007, leveraging her marketing background. However, her ambitions quickly outgrew her initial role, and she sought new opportunities. This quest led her to find a gap in the paint manufacturing industry, particularly within her rural community.
In 2015, she founded Akani Paints, driven by the lack of local manufacturers and her desire to contribute to her community’s development. Initial challenges included a lack of technical expertise in chemistry and chemical engineering, which she overcame by emphasising patience, quality, and growth under the guidance of a trusted mentor.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Starting the business was not without its hurdles.
She faced challenges such as sourcing raw materials and managing transportation costs, along with
ensuring product quality. Initially, her paint struggled to meet industry standards, but Olifant’s determination led her to seek mentorship continuously and collaborate with industry experts to refine her products.
Gaining customer trust was another challenge, given the market’s preference for established brands. However, by focusing on quality and effective aftersales service, she established a loyal customer base.
Akani Paints now boasts two branches, with a third planned in Giyani. Her commitment to innovation has resulted in products developed specifically to withstand regional climates, such as heat-resistant floor paints. Her endeavours have not only resulted in business growth but have also played a role in local economic development.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, she aims to expand Akani Paints’ reach across rural Limpopo, targeting property developers while emphasising quality and community collaboration. By working with other small businesses, she looks to address the high costs of raw materials and ensure product excellence. Her vision includes enhancing employment opportunities and economic growth in Limpopo. By creating products tailored to local needs and collaborating with local talent, Akani Paints is positioned to influence the industry significantly.
Strategic partnerships have been integral to Akani Paints’ success. The business secured funding and
equipment to improve operations and mitigate challenges. Moreover, she engaged with unemployed chemical engineers, driving innovation in her product formulations. Olifant’s pursuit of leadership training at GIBS reflects her commitment to growing as a business leader.
Akani Paints, under Olifant’s guidance, exemplifies resilience and forwardthinking in South Africa’s paint industry. By focusing on local needs and leveraging community collaboration, she has not only built a successful business but has also contributed significantly to her community’s economic upliftment. Her journey illustrates the power of determination and strategic innovation, paving the way for future entrepreneurs in the region. Akani Paints is not just about colour it’s about creating opportunities and fostering community growth, one brushstroke at a time. c
SLOW AND STEADY...
We are proud to be associated with leading paint manufacturers & have a key focus on EXPORT markets in Africa. We boast a team of highly skilled polymer chemists in the laboratory as well as on the plant to ensure quality control and superior standards of resin. Adding to the mix is our MAINTENANCE team of qualified engineers, fitters, welders & electricians. Our high-quality polymers are the key to vibrant decorative, industrial, automotive, and other coatings. Our state-of-the art laboratory boasts cutting-edge technology and a team of R&D chemists who endeavour to develop products for our customers.
The vision is to RE-DEFINE the COATINGS INDUSTRY with our QCCP (Quality, Consistency & Competitive Prices) THEORY.
Are you looking for lightning-fast delivery? Our 20-metric ton bulk delivery vehicle guarantees your order will arrive within 24-72 hours.
• Long, Medium & Short Oil Alkyds
• Urethane Alkyds & Oils
• Hydroxy Functional Acrylics
• Thermoplastic Acrylics
• Speciality Alkyds
• Short & Medium chain stopped Alkyds.
• Styrenated & Acrylated Alkyds
• Amino Resins (Urea & Melamine Formaldehyde)
• Thermoset Acrylics
• Saturated Polyesters
Experience the MAGIC with SYNTHETIC POLYMERS!
A leader in paint tinting and mixing equipment
Lejn, founded in Durban in December 1990, has grown to become a key player in the paint tinting and mixing equipment industry across Southern Africa. For over 30 years, Lejn has provided reliable and efficient equipment solutions to paint manufacturers and retailers, ensuring accurate, affordable, and low-maintenance tinting systems.
The company prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of products and services. Lejn represents several globally recognised brands such as Fast & Fluid Management, LargoInnova, TQC-Sheen, Leneta, and Gemini. Each of these brands offers specialised equipment, including automatic dispensing and mixing equipment, colour management hardware and software, laboratory analytical tools, industry-standard paint testing charts, and paint filling and pot washing machinery.
With a robust team of 30 employees and a network of service centres and technicians stationed in major South African cities, Lejn extends its services to neighboring countries, ensuring rapid response and high service levels to its clientele. This dedication to customer service and technical support has cemented Lejn’s reputation in the industry.
Lejn’s operational philosophy is built around maintaining their leadership in the market by forging strong partnerships with trustworthy brands and delivering cost-effective solutions adaptable to client requirements. They ensure their team of trained technicians offers backup service and maintenance, comprehensive equipment training, and efficient service turnarounds.
For further inquiries or service requests, Lejn can be contacted via their offices in Durban and Johannesburg, or through their email at info@lejn.co.za. c
More detailed information about their products and services can be found on their website at www.lejn.co.za.
Emerging trends and strategic movements in Africa's paint industry
