Toronto, Ontario -- BASF Coatings has launched a new automotive OEM coatings plant at its Muenster site in Germany, expanding its production capacity to meet growing demand for high-volume colours.
The facility is designed to produce high-runner products — shades that currently represent the majority of market demand — with a high degree of automation to improve process stability and production efficiency.
“This project is an outstanding team achievement, coordinated and executed by a global network of experts across multiple BASF locations,” said Uta Holzenkamp, president of BASF Coatings. “Our innovative strength and continuous drive for improvement make us a successful industry player – and more importantly, a valued partner to our customers.”
Conceptual planning began in 2019, followed by two and a half years of construction before the start of regular production this year. The new processes developed in Muenster will be shared across BASF Coatings’ facilities worldwide.
“We have invested in a more advanced process with the new facility, which ensures high and consistent product quality and stability,” said Nils Lessmann, senior vice president, global operations paint and resin. “As the next step, our teams in Asia Pacific and North America will adopt these best practices and strengthen our global manufacturing network.”
The plant was also designed with sustainability in mind, featuring optimized energy use to reduce CO₂ emissions. Since 2022, the Muenster site has operated on 100 percent renewable wind energy, saving approximately 4,000 tonnes of CO₂ each year. Muenster joins other BASF Coatings sites across Europe, Asia Pacific and North America that have transitioned to renewable power.
