BASF Coatings Unveils Lean Lab in Wuerzburg, Setting a New Innovation Benchmark

With the launch of a new laboratory at its Wuerzburg, Germany, site, BASF Coatings is strengthening its role as a leader in digitalisation, occupational safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The innovative “Lean Lab” is dedicated to developing and producing waterborne basecoats for customers in the European automotive sector.

“The Lean Lab in Wuerzburg is part of our global rollout. With this infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for modern, digitalised, and flexible product development, reaffirming our commitment to driving innovation and sustainability consistently across all regions,” emphasises Dr Ralf Otte, Vice President, Global Technology, Automotive OEM Coatings at BASF Coatings. “I am very proud of our project team, who implemented the concept with outstanding commitment within the planned timeframe.” 

The Lean Lab concept is now being rolled out across additional BASF Coatings sites worldwide, tailored to meet each location’s specific needs. The approach is built on clear specialisation: wet-chemical tasks are carried out in the process laboratory, the product laboratory focuses on customer support and ongoing product refinement, while laboratory services manage raw material and supply logistics. In line with this structure, operations are organised into three dedicated areas—process laboratory, product laboratory, and laboratory services.

All workstations feature ergonomic designs and are supported by advanced IT infrastructure. Every step in the workflow is digitally documented and optimised for maximum efficiency. Positioned centrally and in close proximity to production, the laboratory fosters strong interdisciplinary collaboration and enables swift implementation of new innovations.

The Lean Lab is already aligned with upcoming EU standards for raw material classification and occupational safety. It advances digitalisation and efficiency in product development while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability. Optimised material flow, direct logistics links, and centralised space contribute to annual CO₂ savings of 25.1 metric tonnes. In addition, consumption-based material supply further enhances resource efficiency.

Customised laboratory software and an RFID-enabled warehouse system ensure full process transparency and automated data capture in the new laboratory. Warehouse operations—including raw material ordering—are completely digital. A modern working café further supports creativity, collaboration, and employee well-being.

The BASF Coatings team in Wuerzburg develops and manufactures waterborne basecoats for automotive OEM customers worldwide. The new laboratory concept further reinforces the site’s position as a strategic hub and an appealing employer within the region.

Source: BASF