Verband der deutschen Lack- und Druckfarbenindustrie e.V.

The German Coatings and Printing Inks Industry Association (VdL – Verband der deutschen Lack- und Druckfarbenindustrie) is the voluntary self-organisation of manufacturers of coatings, paints and printing inks in Germany. The VdL represents the interests of the German paint industry – as well as German subsidiaries of foreign manufacturers – in economic and social policy vis-à-vis other industries, politicians, authorities, science and media.

The VdL represents 85 % of Germany’s coatings, paints and printing inks. More than 200 members have organised themselves in the association. Members have a very heterogeneous structure: In addition to a few major multinationals usually linked to a corporation, there is a vast number of medium-sized manufacturers, many of whom are family owned and managed.

The core, most important task of the VdL as the “voice of the industry” is to represent the interests and thereby influence the legislation of the European Union, the Federal Republic of Germany and of the Federal States. The association advocates that laws support the economic performance of its members as well as to protect humans and the environment. The first association objective is to ensure Germany remains an attractive location for development and production of paints, coatings and printing inks. This work is supplemented by the industry's own initiatives such as the development of technical and environmental guidelines, and by industry objectives. In addition, the VdL is involved in standardisation work.

Another core task is to inform members about the current issues and latest regulations for the industry. Many companies in the industry, which is characterised by medium-sized businesses, do not have the capacity to keep up with the flood of laws, regulations and enactments, let alone implement them. The VdL informs its members exclusively about the regulations that are pertinent to the industry and provides assistance when implementing them in operational practice.

The association also informs the interested general public about how the coating and printing ink industry contributes to developing the economy in German and about the benefits to society of paints, coatings and printing inks. Finally, the association promotes science education and further training with the aim of attracting well-trained specialists to the industry.

Verband der deutschen Lack- und Druckfarbenindustrie e. V.
Mainzer Landstraße 55
60329 Frankfurt a. M.
Telephone: +49 69 2556 1411
Email: vdlvcide
Website: www.wirsindfarbe.de