Today’s shipowners face a simultaneous battle on two fronts, states leading paint and coatings manufacturer Jotun. A growing pressure to comply with ever more stringent environmental regulations is matched by a need to control costs, and enhance efficiency, in an increasingly competitive and unpredictable marketplace.

Specialty chemicals company Lanxess is accelerating its growth course and signed a binding agreement to acquire 100 per cent shares in Emerald Kalama Chemical.

In line with its recently announced new `Double Impact’ strategy, supposed to be realised through both acquisitions and organic growth as well as investments, world-leading coatings manufacturer Hempel announced its first major acquisition to gain foothold in Australian market and Asian expansion.