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BASF Coatings inaugurates cutting-edge OEM coatings plant in Muenster
BASF Coatings has opened a new automotive OEM coatings facility in Muenster, Germany, designed to meet growing demand for high-volume products. Featuring advanced automation and powered entirely by renewable energy, the plant sets new standards for sustainability and operational efficiency.
BASF Coatings has officially launched a state-of-the-art production plant for automotive OEM coatings at its Muenster site in Germany. This milestone investment is tailored to produce high-demand colours, often referred to as “high-runner products,” which currently dominate the market. The facility is equipped with advanced automation technologies to ensure consistent product quality, increased efficiency, and enhanced process reliability.
The project represents one of BASF Coatings’ most transformative investments in recent years, with construction spanning two and a half years after initial conceptual studies began in 2019. It marks a significant step in strengthening the company’s position in the high-volume automotive coatings segment. Uta Holzenkamp, President of BASF Coatings, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project, stating, “Our innovative strength and continuous drive for improvement make us a successful industry player – and more importantly, a valued partner to our customers.”
Sustainability as a core focus
Sustainability lies at the heart of the new plant’s design. The facility is optimised for energy efficiency and operates in alignment with BASF Coatings’ commitment to reducing CO₂ emissions. Since 2022, the Muenster site has been powered exclusively by renewable wind energy, resulting in annual savings of approximately 4,000 tonnes of CO₂. This achievement aligns with BASF Coatings’ global sustainability goals, as other sites across Europe, Asia Pacific, and North America also operate on 100 % renewable electricity.
Nils Lessmann, Senior Vice President of Global Operations Paint & Resin, emphasised the impact of the new facility on BASF’s global operations strategy. “This advanced process ensures high and consistent product quality and stability. Our teams in Asia Pacific and North America will adopt these best practices to further strengthen our global manufacturing network,” he said.
A future-focused approach
The Muenster plant’s capabilities not only address current customer demands but also lay the groundwork for future growth in sustainable automotive coatings. By combining cutting-edge automation with renewable energy solutions and a focus on global collaboration, BASF Coatings continues to drive innovation in the coatings industry.
