AkzoNobel has announced its intention to close the manufacturing sites in Wapenveld (the Netherlands) and Machelen (Belgium) and consolidate production at other locations in the region.

The intended closures are part of the company’s multi-year industrial transformation program. They follow last year's announcements regarding three manufacturing sites located in Europe and Africa, and the more recent streamlining plans for Montataire in France.

AkzoNobel’s industrial transformation is a strategic priority designed to improve operations and reduce complexity. By focusing on anchor sites that offer greater scale and improved efficiencies, the company aims to lower operating costs and optimize its industrial network to enhance competitiveness and drive sustainable growth.

Capital allocation will increasingly be focused on anchor sites, which will also enable future innovation. Recent examples include equipment and process upgrades at the company's aerospace coatings site in Pamiers, France, and new research labs in Sassenheim, the Netherlands.

All relevant parties have been informed about the intended closures of Wapenveld and Machelen, as well as the next steps, which are subject to consultation with local employee representatives.