I am very pleased to extend a special welcome on behalf of the members of the South African Paint Manufacturing Association. Since the last Coating Conference the association has introduced dynamic changes to our structure and operations, one of the most important is an expansion of membership criteria to cover not only existing manufacturers and raw material suppliers but also to include companies involved in application of coatings and retail stockists. Both of which as we all know are absolutely integral to the smooth operation of the total coating industry. The initial interest and response to this membership initiative has been overwhelming.   This cooperation will be essential in light of the impending legislation on “producer responsibility and waste management” set to affect the entire industry.

A co-ordinated professional industry has nothing to fear from international competition and now is the time to make our mark, not only locally but also as a major exporter of coatings and coated products into the international market. 

I am confident in the ability of the South African Coating Industry to seize this opportunity of the Symposium to network with other professionals and to gain lucrative knowledge.

We, at SAPMA are proud to be associated with OCCA in presenting this conference and I look forward to an exciting and interesting conference. 

Terry Ashmore

SAPMA Chairman