The Surface Treatment global business unit of BASF's Coatings division, operating under the Chemetall brand, has been awarded the highest supplier award in the Airbus Supply Chain & Quality Improvement Program called SQIP. For the fourth consecutive year, Chemetall achieved the "Accredited Supplier" status.

The award acknowledges sustained quality and delivery performance, strong continuous improvement and customer oriented approach. Chemetall supplies Airbus with high-quality Naftoseal and Ardrox products which meet the strict requirements of the international aerospace industry.

"We are extremely proud to once again receive this prestigious award, which values the dedication and commitment of the Chemetall team in line with Airbus targets and expectations in 2017," says Hendrik Becker, Chemetall's Global Aerospace Manager. "Winning the award for the fourth consecutive year is a great honor for our long-lasting and successful business relationship with Airbus." In 2017, Chemetall strengthened its supply chain. "We implemented several projects to further improve the performance of our European aerospace supply chain and strongly supports the ramp-up of the Airbus A320 and A350 programs," says Ronald Hendriks, Quality Manager and SQIP Coordinator.

Airbus reviews the performance of its suppliers

The aim of the Airbus Supply Chain & Quality Improvement Program, known as SQIP, is to advance the major strategic Airbus suppliers towards the goal of industrial excellence with regard to product quality and delivery reliability. In view of increasing production rates, this goal is of particular importance. Every year, the performance of each participating supplier is reviewed and either confirmed or – in case of non-conformity with the requested quality standards – downgraded or even rejected.

"We are delighted about this supplier award from Airbus. It acknowledges the continuous efforts of the Chemetall team and our commitment to deliver high quality service and products. Operating as a brand of BASF's Coatings division, we look forward to supporting the Airbus growth strategy even more now and in the future," says Dr. Martin Jung, Senior Vice President Surface Treatment. "The combination of expertise and innovation power will accelerate innovation and drive even more success for our customer, Airbus."

Chemetall has a long-term partnership with Airbus

Over the past 25 years, Chemetall and Airbus have established a long-lasting and successful business relationship. From production sites in Langelsheim/Germany and Soissons/France, Chemetall supplies several Airbus sites with aircraft sealants, corrosion protection products, cleaners and pre-treatment technologies. In September 2017, Chemetall received the Airbus Best Performer Award for top level industrial performance and significant contributions in partnering with Airbus. Starting in spring 2018, Chemetall will expand its production site in Langelsheim, Germany, to fulfill the increasing global demands for aircrafts.