The Cost of Corrosion study from AkzoNobel’s Interpon provides detailed global and regional analysis for manufacturers aiming to stay ahead of regulatory shifts and unlock competitive advantage through enhanced corrosion-protection strategies.
AkzoNobel’s Interpon has released a landmark Cost of Corrosion report
revealing that manufacturers could recover up to US$875 billion in avoidable losses by adopting smarter corrosion-protection strategies. The independent study of 1,000 manufacturing leaders across global industries shows corrosion is shifting from a necessary cost to one of the sector’s largest untapped value opportunities.
“Corrosion protection was once seen mainly as a way to prevent product failures and financial loss. Today, it plays a far bigger role – helping manufacturers cut waste, improve efficiency, and deliver longer-lasting, higher quality products that customers trust and value. Smarter protection strengthens performance and relationships, and that’s the change we’re proud to drive with our customers worldwide,” has stated Jorrit van Rijn, Marketing Director at AkzoNobel Powder Coatings.
Commissioned by AkzoNobel’s Interpon Powder Coatings, the research highlights how rising environmental and regulatory pressures are pushing manufacturers to balance durability, cost efficiency, and sustainability. The findings underline Interpon’s continued leadership in advanced corrosion-protection solutions.
Key global findings include:
- Hidden impact on business performance: 32% of respondents cite customer loss, product returns, and reputational damage as their biggest corrosion-related expense, while 28% point to the environmental burden of waste and landfill.
- A strategic priority: Almost half (44%) now regard corrosion protection as essential to operations.
Electric-vehicle manufacturers are setting new benchmarks, with more than half already deploying advanced powder coatings. Architecture-focused manufacturers face pressure to upgrade legacy systems in line with stricter sustainability rules. Industrial equipment producers acknowledge the need to modernise but remain cautious due to initial investment requirements.
Regionally, North America and South Asia & Australasia are primed for rapid adoption of next-generation technologies, while Europe’s regulatory environment is catalysing innovation. The report positions modern powder-coating technology as a performance and sustainability lever, improving product longevity, reducing waste and energy use, and boosting competitiveness.