From October 17-20, 2005 Clariant’s finishing line was given first-hand information about latest product developments, R&D activities and actual status of project-works for different leather types to their worldwide technical staff. ‘This unique event reflects our strong commitment to keep our colleagues fully informed about innovations and benefits we are presently working at to face today’s needs of our customers’, says Dr Michael Kurwan, newly appointed head of PM finishing.

Adrian Meier, head of leather business and Rudolf Helber, worldwide commercial manager, demonstrated the new organisation and gave an overview about market and regional trends. ‘It’s more than important to share our experiences across the whole organisation to face rapidly changing market needs’, said Rudolf Helber. Focus was also put on customised projects such as special fashion activities, which will be presented in the main fashion markets.

More than 70 technicians from 27 countries were invited to the technical headquarters in Leinfelden, Germany, in order to upgrade their technical knowledge and share their regional market and technical experiences on a global level.

The visitors from abroad participated actively in presentations on country reports, innovative leathers, relevant finishing-formulations, interesting finishing products and needs from headquarters for their individual markets.

A guest-speaker from the automotive industry reported on new trends within the car-interior.