CUSTOMERS AND INNOVATION
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Managing future challenges, today
By continuing to invest in its global network of Research and Development (R&D) centres, Jotun is in a
stronger position to produce paints and coatings that both help end users solve challenges and comply
with increasingly strict environmental and safety regulations.
As more end users recognise that Jotun products can not only
protect, but add value to property, Jotun’s R&D personnel
have become more focused on developing paints and coatings
systems engineered to meet specific customer requirements.
At the same time, growing concerns about safety and the
environment have resulted in increasingly strict regulations on
paints and coatings. The task of managing these challenges
falls to Jotun’s 450 skilled chemists and R&D personnel,
working all over the world.
Safety and the environment
All product formulations are reviewed to make sure they
comply with relevant local regulations and are consistent
with Jotun’s Chemical Policy, which sets targets for phasing
out potentially harmful substances. Jotun’s Group Product
Safety team provides information to help end users take the
necessary precautions to ensure the safe storage, handling
and application of each product. To help customers stay ahead
of environmental regulations on the use of Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOCs), Jotun is working to remove solvents from
many products. For example, in 2017, the company developed
Jotacote Universal S120, a solvent free steel primer based on
patented technology to help shipyards comply with stricter
limits on the use of VOCs and Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs).
Jotun works to develop products that add value. In 2019
Jotun introduced a new powder coatings solution that allows
architects to include metallic finishes to building components.
And to help real estate developers add value to buildings,
Jotun chemists have developed solvent-free steel protection
products and ultra-low VOC interior paint systems, supported
by the necessary documentation to help them win points for
green building certification. Jotun has also supported the
development of product ranges that help companies active in
the hydrocarbon processing industry save money and enhance
overall operational efficiency.
Local customisation
In some segments, Jotun offers a global range of products. But
to develop products to match local preferences, regulations
and climate conditions, Jotun relies on its international network
of R&D centres. For example, Jotun engineered heat reflective
exterior paints and coatings to help owners in warm climates
reduce energy costs, while in Scandinavia, Jotun focused on
developing highly durable, all weather exterior wood protection
products that contain biocides to counteract the growth of
black mould and algae.
Jotun personnel in all regions also work in cooperation with
various external organisations, such as the European Council of
the Paint, Printing Ink and Artists‘ Colours Industry (CEPE), not
only to stay ahead of safety and environmental legislation but to
advocate for reasonable regulations. By being sensitive to both
local and global market drivers, and working with other industry
stakeholders on compliance issues, Jotun remains in a strong
position to anticipate end user demand in all segments.
JOTUN R&D