Axalta Coating Systems has made a major investment in new headquarters for the company’s UK and Ireland operations. The new facility includes an Academy for bodyshop customers and will consolidate all of Axalta’s liquid coating businesses offices in the country.

Located in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, the added capabilities of the new premises are designed to meet needs of the company’s expanding portfolio of customers.

The Refinish Training Centre, the Axalta Coating Systems Academy, will open in February 2014. Axalta’s three global refinish brands, Cromax®, Spies Hecker and Standox, will each have their own dedicated training room, mixing area and spray booth. Refinish bodyshop customers will hone their technical skills at the Academy using Axalta products and be able to make use of a large, relaxing communal break-out area.

“This is an exciting time for our company and our customers,” explained Mike Davis, Managing Director Axalta Coating Systems. He added, “This investment demonstrates our commitment to put our customers first. The Academy will enable refinish craftsmen to learn and to apply best practices to build their businesses and keep pace with an ever-changing market.”