Stahl Establishes Center of Excellence in Apex, North Carolina, USA

Founded in the United States in 1930 as a leather finishing supplier, Stahl has evolved into a global leader in specialty coatings for flexible materials. Marking a return to its origins, the company has opened a new Center of Excellence in Apex, North Carolina. This facility reinforces Stahl’s deep ties to the US market while fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration with regional customers.

A Hub for Innovation

The Apex Center of Excellence serves as a key innovation hub within Stahl’s global network, supporting industries such as automotive, apparel, luxury goods, packaging, and home furnishings under the Performance Coatings business. Featuring state-of-the-art application technology, testing facilities, and pilot production capabilities, the center offers a collaborative space where customers, OEMs, and brand partners can co-develop and refine advanced solutions tailored to market demands.

Strengthening Growth in a Key Market

North America plays a crucial role in Stahl’s global strategy, with the US and Canada contributing nearly 20% of total revenue—a figure that rises to 25% when including Central America. The establishment of the Apex Center of Excellence reflects Stahl’s commitment to expanding its presence in this vital region. Beyond driving innovation, the center will foster local industry growth through partnerships with businesses, universities, and research institutions, while also supporting job creation and economic development in North Carolina.

David Kuzdrall, Managing Director Stahl North America: "We are excited to announce the opening of our new Center of Excellence, which will serve as a hub for innovation, expertise, and collaboration. This state-of-the-art facility will bring together a diverse team of highly skilled professionals who will drive forward our commitment to excellence, enabling our customers to stay ahead of the curve. The talented individuals based at the Center will work together to deliver cutting-edge solutions, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the coatings industry. Their expertise and teamwork will foster a culture of continuous innovation and will be key to the ongoing success and growth of our organization. We look forward to shaping the future together, touching lives, for a better world."

Driving Sustainability and Innovation

Sustainability and positive impact are central to Stahl’s mission. As an active participant in the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and a recipient of platinum EcoVadis ratings, the company is committed to ethical business practices, including ensuring fair living wages for all employees. The Apex facility advances these efforts by developing environmentally responsible coating solutions that meet industry standards while minimizing environmental impact.

To mark the opening, local and industry stakeholders were invited to tour the facility, gaining insight into its cutting-edge capabilities and sustainable innovations. With this expansion, Stahl reinforces its position as a leading technology partner in the performance coatings sector.

Source: Stahl