allnex boosts productivity and innovation with PaintButler automation.

Breda, 31 March 2025

allnex is a leading global manufacturer and solution provider of coating resins and additives for industrial and composite markets. allnex supports customers to enhance their product and service solutions with a wide range of chemistries and innovative products, including the sustainable ECOWISE™ offerings. As part of PTT Global Chemical (PTTGC), allnex main markets are Mobility & Transportation, Packaging & Consumer Goods and Construction & Infrastructure.

Before implementing a new system in 2019, manual data extraction and processing were time-consuming and inefficient, which could compromise the reliability of results. Additionally, the effectiveness of the equipment was a concern. The need for a more scientific and efficient approach grew, and automation provided a solution.

Through the collaboration with LAB Services and the implementation of the PaintButler platform, allnex has made significant progress in efficiency and reliability. The PaintButler platform not only improved productivity but also enabled a more scientific approach to processes. With automation, allnex can now accomplish more work in the same amount of time, helping the company stay competitive in the market. The positive reception of this platform led to the decision to acquire a second PaintButler platform, which has been running in Austria since 2022.     

Flexibility and Innovation
One of the most striking aspects of the implementation was the flexibility of LAB Services in developing new modules. This has contributed to an improved understanding of coating systems and the ability to generate more data, which fosters innovation within the organization.

"The flexibility of LAB Services to quickly respond to our specific needs and their excellent after-sales service truly make a difference in our collaboration." - Peter van den Berg, R&D Automation Manager.

What sets LAB Services apart from other providers is their flexibility, service, and ability to deliver custom-made systems. They also integrate internally developed modules and ensure that their software is widely applicable across various markets. Despite allnex's business not directly falling within LAB Services' core competencies, LAB Services demonstrated a strong willingness to understand allnex's challenges and offer tailored solutions. This was further strengthened by open and direct communication between both parties, which was highly valued. 

Future Growth and Insights
The implementation of the platform also brought some valuable lessons. allnex discovered that not everything is easy to automate, and that developing custom-made systems requires perseverance. Nevertheless, they are extremely satisfied with the results and even jokingly advise their competitors not to take the same steps.

"The integration of automation is not a luxury for us, but a necessary step to maintain our leading position in the market and continue to grow." - Peter van den Berg, R&D Automation Manager.

Looking ahead, allnex envisions further expansions of the platform, particularly in the areas of imaging and the integration of chemical and scratch resistance tests. This would help achieve even more reproducible and objective results. Automation plays an increasingly important role within the industry, and allnex remains committed to maintaining its leadership position.

Due to the user-friendly nature of the platform, it is easily accessible to all employees, which has positively impacted the acceptance of automation within the company. It is clear that the implementation of the system has had a significant impact on the workflow and collaboration within allnex. The investment in automation supports the company's mission and vision and is an important pillar for future growth and innovation.