Sigma Paints Saudi Arabia expects a 14 to 25 per cent growth in sales this year and in 2009 dependent on the division and product range, a senior executive says.
Mark van Diemen, Sigma Middle East managing director, said the performance would be similar to what was achieved in 2006 and 2007 when the company outpaced market growth.
Sigma Saudi Arabia operates two factories in the kingdom with a total annual production of more than 70,000 tonnes. Most of the output is consumed locally.
The kingdom’s paint market is worth $747 million, the largest in the GCC region.
Van Diemen said the most successful offerings emerging from Saudi facilities were the innovative, market-oriented and durable exterior products.
“Our strength lies in compatible, long-lasting and high-quality paint systems. We have also developed environmentally friendly interior products that provide health protection. Moreover, we have created artistic, unique and decorative interior finishes for our appreciative customers. A common factor for all our product lines is superior quality as to ensure maximum protection, reliability and durability,” he said.
Van Diemen, who earlier set up plants in India and China, stressed that the company’s coating systems were specially designed to endure the most aggressive of climatic conditions. 
“Before any new product is introduced to the market, our research and development laboratories do extensive product testing, including field testing and accelerated weathering – mimicking real life exposure conditions. Thus we continue focusing on innovative, durable exterior products and consequently keep up our strong image as a comprehensive solutions provider, as opposed to simply a paint manufacturer.”
The official credits the company’s success to its significantly increased R&D facilities. “Sigma’s field technical services department consists of several experienced coatings and inspection engineers with the function of providing onsite support to our PC and marine customers,” he says.
“We constantly upgrade our regional production facilities in order to improve the supply chain. A well developed supply chain ensures the highest level of service, while providing a point of supply close to the customers.
 “We are transforming from a technology-focused to a market-driven company and our driving force is fuelled by innovation across the board. This makes us a major creative force.”
Sigma Paints was founded in 1722 and is now part of PPG which is the second-largest paint operation in the world.