Mankiewicz introduces new coatings to marine industry

Mankiewicz introduces new coatings to marine industry

February 27, 2004

Mankiewicz Coatings, the world's leading supplier of specialized coatings to the automobile and aviation industries, is introducing its innovative ALEXIT® product line to the marine industry. Boat builders, interior designers and re-fit yards will be able to offer their customers exciting new colors and textures that are uniquely attractive and designed to withstand heavy wear and exposure to sunlight. Mankiewicz will work closely with builders and designers to create custom colors and provide technical support and application know-how.

One of the first boat builders that will begin using ALEXIT® coatings is Pearson Yachts in Warren, RI. "Now that we know these coatings are available, we're designing some of our newest product, such as our True North 46, around them," comments Mark Pearson. "We've been looking for better ways to reduce glare at the helm area, and ALEXIT® offers an excellent solution. Our interior design group is also excited about the soft coats that look and feel like leather. We'll be able to create a luxurious, highly durable finish with these modern coatings."

These coatings are extremely resistant to harmful UV radiation, maintaining their deep color and soft touch for years. ALEXIT® is also highly mar resistant and will hold up to the hard use that most boat interiors must endure. The soft coats incorporate unique "self-healing" properties, which automatically eliminate or reduce scratches over time. ALEXIT® coatings are also repairable, so if a small section is damaged, it can be re-coated and blended in with the original.

Complex curves and shapes can now be beautifully finished with leather or suede-like coatings in virtually any color, and the resulting surface will be UV and mar resistant. Spray application is much easier and more precise than trying to cover curved surfaces with fabrics or textiles.

Mankiewicz's entrance into the U.S. marine market is being spearheaded by industry veteran, Christian von der Heyde, formerly the president of U.S. Paint, manufacturer of AWLGRIP®. "This advanced technology is going to give boat builders new ways to distinguish themselves by creating uniquely attractive interiors," comments von der Heyde. "Mankiewicz has been doing this successfully for BMW and Airbus, among others, and we're ready to bring this innovative approach to the marine industry. Already, a number of leading European yacht builders are using our products and experiencing great success."

Mankiewicz has a warehouse and distribution center in Simpsonville, South Carolina for JIT deliveries to its distributors nationwide. All products, including primers, are manufactured under controlled processes in the company's modern facility located in Hamburg, Germany.