Dive into a world where color meets chemistry right here at BASF Coatings. This isn’t just a paint factory. BASF Coatings is a global innovation hub. Let’s explore its history and impact.
BASF Coatings GmbH calls Muenster home. It is the headquarter of BASF’s Coating division. This location is also the world’s largest integrated paint manufacturing site. Around 2,300 employees work at the Muenster location.
The roots of BASF Coatings stretch back to 1888. Max Winkelmann founded the Max Winkelmann AG in Hamburg. He focused on producing paints and coatings. In 1903, Winkelmann expanded. He established a branch in Hiltrup, now part of Muenster. By 1904, the iconic water tower was built. This branch became the company’s headquarters. Today, it remains a major employer in Muenster.
In 1889, the company name changed to “Glasurit”. This name was chosen to reflect the glaze-like finish of its paints. A Reichspatent protected the name. By 1925, the company adopted a Scarlet Macaw as its symbol. Its vibrant colors represented the diverse range of Glasurit coatings.
After World War II, Glasurit became a primary supplier to the German automotive industry. It grew into the world’s largest paint manufacturer. In 1965, the Winkelmann family sold the company to BASF for 250 million Mark. This acquisition marked the beginning of BASF’s expansion into the coatings sector.
BASF acquired Dr. Beck & Co. AG in 1967. This company specialized in insulating varnishes for the electrical industry. In 1968, they acquired Herbol-Werke Herbig Haarhaus AG. In 1985, the acquisition of Inmont further strengthened BASF’s position.
BASF continued to expand its portfolio through smaller acquisitions. In 2002, it took over Wattyl’s automotive repair paint business in Australia. Later, it acquired the paint activities of NOF Corporation in Japan. They also acquired Relius Coatings from Degussa Bauchemie.
BASF Coatings develops, produces, and markets coatings. These are for automotive original equipment, automotive refinishing. Also included are industrial coatings. The company also provides construction paints and related coating procedures.
BASF Coatings plays a significant role in the industry. In 2020, the division achieved global sales of about $3.68 billion. The company employs approximately 11,000 people worldwide.
BASF launched Glasurit 100 Line in 2020. This set a new standard for sustainability in the refinish business. The innovative line helps customers become more competitive. It improves their environmental footprint. Glasurit 100 Line is the first basecoat line with a low VOC value. It reduces emissions by 40% compared to traditional waterborne basecoats.
Today, BASF Coatings continues to innovate. It operates collaborative sites across Europe, North and South America, and Asia Pacific. Since January 1, 2022, Uta Holzenkamp has led BASF Coatings GmbH. She is also head of BASF’s Coatings division.
From its humble beginnings as Max Winkelmann AG, BASF Coatings has become a global leader. Its Muenster site remains at the heart of its operations. The company drives performance and design. It creates new applications to meet partners’ needs worldwide.