Kenya’s Crown Paints Ltd, East Africa’s leading paint manufacturer, has officially penetrated into the Rwandan market, with observers projecting stiff competition against domestic manufacturers.
Last year, the Indian-owned manufacturing company announced an investment worth $2.2million into the Rwandan market, in a bid to expand the regional market share.
Speaking at Serena Hotel during the official launch of its subsidiary in Rwanda on Friday, Crown Paints CEO, Rakesh Rao said, “Those with painting skill in Rwanda should take advantage of the opportunities that Crown Paints brings.”
The company specializes in decorative paints, automotive paint, coating, adhesives, flooring and niche paint brands as Silicon, among others.
Founded in 1958, Crown paints has an annual turnover of $61.2 million, has the capacity to produce 2.3 million liters per month.
According to Rakesh, the company brings into the Rwanda market a mixture of products to satisfy clients.
“We are bringing over 60,000 shades in which our clients can pick from,” he said.
A set of Crown paints shades that were displayed during official launch Friday at Kigali’s Serena Hotel.
Crown Paints joins Ameki Color, Uganda’s Sadolin Paints; Sharom Paints as well as Akagera Paints. However, Crown Paints comes with an advantage, as it produces high level shades in the region.
Sam Kaberuka, a local real estate developer told KTPress that Crown Paints out competes other companies on the market.
“We have been looking for multiple and classic shades in vein. The company comes with exceptional services and products to serve the market.”
The company comes at a time when Rwanda’s construction industry is booming, thus presenting optimistic and jubilant environment, but increasing pressure on existing competitors.
additional reporting: Jean de la Croix Tabaro
