PHILADELPHIA, PA — AkzoNobel (AKZA; AKZOY) and Axalta Coating Systems (NYSE: AXTA) will operate under the name Axanzo following their planned merger in early 2027, consolidating two major coatings businesses into a company with approximately 100 brands and operations spanning more than 160 countries.
The companies disclosed the new corporate identity as they work toward completing the transaction first announced in November 2025. The combined business is expected to trade under the ticker AXZ on the New York Stock Exchange and Euronext Amsterdam.
The merger would bring together AkzoNobel’s paints and coatings operations with Axalta’s coatings business, creating a broader portfolio serving customers across multiple markets.
AkzoNobel Chief Executive Officer Greg Poux-Guillaume is slated to lead Axanzo, while Axalta CEO Chris Villavarayan will become deputy chief executive officer.
The leadership structure establishes the planned management hierarchy ahead of the transaction’s completion.
“Axanzo will focus on delivering uncompromising performance to sharpen our competitive edge, while establishing a profitable and sustainable path forward as a world leader in coatings,” Poux-Guillaume said.
The combination is intended to expand the companies’ geographic reach, consolidate technical expertise and support product development across their existing businesses.
The Axanzo name incorporates elements of both companies’ identities, establishing a common corporate brand while retaining a portfolio of established product brands.
The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, with completion expected in early 2027.
Until closing, AkzoNobel and Axalta will continue operating independently. Customers and business partners will continue working with their existing commercial teams under current arrangements.
The new name and proposed ticker symbol will take effect only after the merger is completed, making regulatory clearance the next major step in establishing the combined coatings company.
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