Axalta has sold its 50,000th spectrophotometer globally since the launch of the first generation of handheld devices for the refinish industry in 2005.
Spectrophotometers are designed to efficiently match colours, and faster, right-first-time colour matches mean optimized work flow processes, helping collision centres to save time.
To commemorate this accomplishment, BYK-Gardner, recognized as a global leader in the field of measuring colour and appearance, has created a limited-edition spectrophotometer, painted in StarLite, Axalta’s 2018 Automotive Color of the Year. Starlite is a modern, light and reflective hue for vehicles of today and tomorrow that uses Axalta’s tri-coat process to create a distinctive pearlescent effect.
The first commemorative device was presented to Joe McDougall, Axalta’s President of Global Refinish and EMEA, by BYK-Gardener President Frank Wagner during the 2018 IBIS Global Summit, in Munich, Germany.
“Marking the 50,000th global spectrophotometer sale highlights the importance refinishers attach to accurate and fast colour matching,” commented McDougall. “This small yet technology-packed device demonstrates our commitment to providing innovative colour-matching technology to customers. These devices and their patented technology are designed to achieve the perfect colour match accurately, efficiently and reliably, every day in the body shop. When used in conjunction with our colour management software, they truly support our commitment to customers to transition from traditional colour retrieval to a fully digital colour management process.”
Wagner said, “The importance of digital color retrieval is underscored by the fact so many body shops realize the benefits of these devices. They appreciate tools that help them get the job done. We are proud to offer this solution to the refinish market with a partner like Axalta, and we look forward to its continued growth.”
Beginning in 1994, Axalta was one of the first coatings companies to offer a digital colour measuring device and accompanying software for refinish customers. In 2005, Axalta partnered with BYK-Gardner to develop and to manufacture a new generation of spectrophotometers—with the first portable three-angle device to use light emitting diodes. By 2011, Axalta was the first to offer the device to collision centres to measure both colour and flake appearance. Today, the devices are smaller and smarter, and offer additional functionalities such as WIFI, a touch screen, and a smart cradle.
