A total renovation and modernisation of the Cromax Training Centre (CTC) in Mechelen, Belgium, has recently been completed.  The extensive work, which was carried out in two phases over two years, has seen the facility being completely overhauled, both cosmetically and technologically. It will now become the key training destination for refinishers from the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region.

Koen Silverans, Training Leader for Cromax in Europe, Middle East and Africa, says, "Our European training headquarters for Cromax is now the jewel-in-the-crown of our training centres in the region, and we hope serves as an inspiration for them. The CTC is not only a welcoming, comfortable place to meet and to learn, but also it is our resource for training our international customers, our importers and our Cromax trainers from other EMEA countries, ensuring a consistently high quality across all our training centres. The CTC also supports our colour lab and is the link between central sales, marketing and the product group.”

Phase one of the renovation concentrated on adding the strong new Cromax visual identity to the outside of the building, while phase two included a full structural upgrade to the entrance and other internal refurbishments and redecoration. 

The modernised facility features a mini Cromax museum, Cromax Cafe, spacious classrooms and meeting rooms with the latest audio/visual equipment. The functional space has been completely optimised, able to accommodate up to 120 people.

The on-site bodyshop, which has 760m2 of work areas, includes three spray booths, one of which has very large glass doors / panels, enabling un-restricted viewing of application techniques. Another has special climate control settings so training can replicate increased humidity for refinishers from northern regions such as Scandinavia, or from hot and humid southern regions such as the Middle East. The bodyshop also has dedicated, branded signage at every step of the repair process to ensure a smooth workflow and maximum productivity during training. A new, large flat screen monitor in the mixing room allows trainees to follow the step-by-step mixing process easily.