European Commission Approves AkzoNobel and Axalta Merger

AMSTERDAM and PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 06, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The European Commission has given its conditional approval to the merger of AkzoNobel and Axalta, paving the way for the creation of a premier global coatings company. The transaction, which is expected to close in early 2027, will bring together two leading coatings companies with complementary portfolios, technologies, and brands.

AkzoNobel, founded in 1792, has been a trusted provider of innovative paints and coatings for over two centuries. The company's world-class portfolio of brands, including Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon, is trusted by customers around the globe. Active in more than 150 countries, AkzoNobel uses its expertise to sustain and enhance everyday life.

Axalta, a global leader in the coatings industry, offers a wide range of products and services to customers in over 140 countries. With a focus on innovation, Axalta provides solutions for light vehicles, commercial vehicles, refinish applications, electric motors, building facades, and industrial applications. The company's commitment to sustainable solutions and its pioneering spirit have made it a trusted partner for over a century.

The merger of AkzoNobel and Axalta is expected to result in a global coatings company with approximately $17 billion in revenue. The combined company will have a broad portfolio across Powder Coatings, Aerospace Coatings, Refinish, Mobility, Marine, and Protective Coatings, Industrial Coatings, and Decorative Coatings. This strategic move is anticipated to accelerate growth and innovation in the industry.

To address preliminary competition concerns identified by the European Commission, AkzoNobel and Axalta have agreed to divest AkzoNobel's European vehicle refinish business. This targeted remedy will ensure that the horizontal overlap between the companies' activities in the European Economic Area, UK, and Switzerland is removed. The European Commission's approval confirms that the divestiture will preserve the same level of competition and customer choice in the vehicle refinish coatings market in Europe.

Greg Poux-Guillaume, CEO of AkzoNobel, who will serve as CEO of the combined company, expressed his excitement about the approval.

The merger is part of a broader strategy for both companies to enhance their market position and drive sustainable growth. The combined entity is expected to leverage its global presence and diverse portfolio to meet the evolving needs of customers in various industries.