KIA Motors has awarded AkzoNobel Car Refinishes the opportunity to be its first globally approved aftermarket supplier. As part of this strategic initiative, AkzoNobel will be able to offer its full range of car refinishes products to all KIA Dealers’ Body and Paint Departments. The two companies also announced that AkzoNobel Car Refinishes will provide training to KIA dealers and distributors involved in bodyshop activities.
“This agreement further strengthens the existing relationship between KIA and AkzoNobel Car Refinishes,” said Kyung Soo Chun, general manager/Korean OEM AAM Manager AkzoNobel Car Refinishes. “KIA’s approval is an endorsement of the quality of our products and services. We are the first company to receive global approval and value this vote of confidence. With the training program we are providing, we will be working closely with KIA to give them the tools they require to deliver the highest level of quality in their repairs and their services, while ensuring efficiency and profitability in their repair activities.”
The training, which has been tailored to KIA’s specific requirements, will involve both technical training on painting and coloring KIA vehicles as well as non-technical training focusing more on management and administrative activities related to bodyshop and repair operations.
Key elements of the program include training preparation technicians and paint technicians on the use of AkzoNobel Car Refinishes systems applied to KIA vehicles, and the training on front and back office processes and body shop management to improve productivity and profitability. Car Refinishes will also be providing KIA with a Body Shop Manual which will serve as an invaluable reference for both technical and non-technical aspects of bodyshop operations.
According to C.S. Sang, director, Overseas Service Group, Kia Motor Co.: “Akzo Nobel was chosen because they are the global coatings leader, with proven technology, excellent services and subsidiaries or sales offices in all major countries. We look forward to working together for our mutual benefit.”
“KIA’s choice to make us their strategic global partner indicates that they would like to broaden their expertise to all facets of their operations,” added Ralf Schueler, AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Global marketing manager. “It’s a win-win situation for both parties as KIA is assured of ANCR’s quality products and expertise, and we get access to the dealer and distribution networks of a rapidly growing global player.”
