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EC Formulate+ Circle: A New Peer Network for Coatings R&D Leaders Launches in Leiden
From 15–17 June 2026, Leiden, the Netherlands, hosted the inaugural EC Formulate+ Circle, bringing together a carefully selected group of 12 R&D Directors, CTOs, Heads of Innovation and formulation leaders from across the international coatings industry.
The new initiative was created in response to a reality shared by many formulation leaders today: navigating volatile supply chains, increasingly complex regulations, growing customer expectations and relentless pressure to innovate—all while working within tighter budgets and shorter timelines. At the same time, opportunities for honest, peer-level exchange have become increasingly rare. The EC Formulate+ Circle was designed to fill that gap.
Unlike a traditional conference, the Circle was built as an invitation-only network where senior R&D professionals could openly discuss the challenges they face every day in a confidential and collaborative environment. Rather than focusing on presentations alone, the programme combined keynote impulses with structured discussions, workshops and interactive formats that encouraged participants to share experiences, compare approaches and develop practical ideas together. The programme featured four keynote presentations addressing the most pressing issues facing formulation-driven R&D: Dr Brian Roulstone (Former Head of R&D, Dulux) explored how R&D organisations can strengthen innovation capability, prioritise resources and prepare for the digital transformation of formulation.
Dr Sarah Eckersley (EckerTech LLC, former VP R&D, Dow) delivered a strategic overview of the external forces reshaping coatings innovation. Dr Jana Bövers (Institute for Family Businesses OWL, University of Bielefeld) challenged common assumptions highlighting how leadership, organisational design and psychological safety influence innovative performance far more than generational stereotypes. Dr Jürgen Blaak (Babor Beauty Group) shared valuable cross-industry insights from cosmetics and detergents, demonstrating how another formulation-intensive industry manages complexity, regulation and continuous reformulation.
Beyond the presentations, participants engaged in a series of interactive sessions, including a Speed Exchange on current R&D challenges, a collaborative “One-Thing Lunch”, networking activities, thematic roundtables on formulation-driven R&D, a Mini World Café and dedicated workshops to shape the future direction of the Circle itself. Discussions ranged from raw material uncertainty and regulatory pressure to digitalisation, AI, talent development and innovation under increasing commercial constraints.
The atmosphere throughout the three days reflected the founding vision of the Circle: openness, trust and genuine collaboration between peers. Lluís Martínez, Chief Technical Officer at BRIOLF and one of the founding members, commented: “The experience was very useful because we have exchange, discussed and in some cases addressed our specific issues as R&D managers. It was great to have open discussions with colleagues that are in the same situation, handling the daily business while also working on the future. I want to congratulate you and your team for the fantastic organisation of the meeting.”
Verane Levermann of Magni Coatings Europe added: “It was incredibly rewarding to connect with peers who share the same R&D challenges, ambitions, and passion for innovation. Kudos to the EC team for the outstanding organisation and uniquely structured discussions. More than a conference or workshop, it felt like a true meeting of minds, and I would encourage every R&D leader in the coatings industry to attend because it is genuinely about R&D, for R&D, with R&D.”
The event also marked the beginning of what is intended to become a long-term international community. Participants contributed ideas for future activities, including regular online roundtables and ongoing knowledge exchange between annual meetings. With its successful launch in Leiden, the EC Formulate+ Circle has taken the first step towards establishing a trusted international network where formulation leaders can openly exchange ideas, challenge assumptions and collectively shape the future of coatings R&D.
