Akzo Nobel has signed an agreement to acquire Chemcraft Holdings Corp., reportedly North America’s largest privately owned manufacturer of industrial wood coatings.

Akzo Nobel has signed an agreement to acquire Chemcraft Holdings Corp., reportedly North America’s largest privately owned manufacturer of industrial wood coatings. Established in 1976, Chemcraft operates nine manufacturing facilities across the U.S., Canada and Brazil, employing around 500 people. The company’s 2006 revenues were US$145 million.

“This is a strategically important acquisition which will enable us to add scale and value in a number of key North American wood coatings markets,” said Akzo Nobel CEO Hans Wijers. “Chemcraft is a perfect fit with the activities of our Industrial Finishes business and will considerably enhance our presence in several complementary markets.”

Subject to receipt of regulatory approvals the acquisition is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2007.

For more information, visitwww.akzonobel.com.