AkzoNobel at the National Painting and Decorating Show 2016

Featuring more exhibitors than ever before in the show's 22-year history, the National Painting and Decorating Show was held at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry on the 29th and 30th November. A highlight of the industry calendar, it showcased the latest product launches, decorating materials, tools, techniques and innovations.

Dulux Trade, Dulux Academy and Dulux Decorator Centre were all located on one stand, making it easier for decorators and specifiers to get up to date on the latest news from all three AkzoNobel brands.

The overarching theme for us this year was colour, highlighting key product ranges Dulux Trade Diamond, Dulux Trade Quick Dry, and Dulux Heritage. Our newly launched educational programme, Dulux Academy, was also an important focus, with information on next year's courses being showcased on both the stand and in the Ricoh's Arena's main theatre. Visitors to the show could also access information on the Select Decorator scheme and the Dulux Heritage range via literature on stand, alongside a selection of leaflets, colour cards and product guides provided in goodie bags.

Throughout the day, rolling demonstrations were held for visitors on the stand, some of which were streamed live through Facebook - a Dulux Trade first (you can check them out on our Facebook page here). The spray course demo covered the different units available and best-practice application using High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) systems; Quick Dry demos covered application tips, tools and an overview of the range, and our Diamond demo gave decorators the chance to see the innovative stain beading technology in action.

Over the two days, we held three masterclasses in the venue's theatre, giving an in-depth introduction to the Dulux Academy and the courses on offer, including, our exclusive qualification developed with City & Guilds. The Level 3 Certificate in Colour, Design and Professional Decorating can be achieved through completion of a series of Dulux Academy courses and completion of a colour portfolio and robust workmanship assessment.

Not forgetting, of course, the iconic Dulux dog, who was in attendance on the stand.

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