Almost 150 top researchers and developers of the specialty chemicals Group from all over the world came together at the international Innovation Conference held in Wesel to discuss technical and economic developments as well as future innovative trends. For ALTANA, innovation is the pivotal key to further growth. With research and development expenditure of about 6% of sales, which is clearly above the industry average, ALTANA secures its technological edge and provides customers with unique innovative products and services. New developments are investigated and implemented together with the customer and in close proximity to the customer. 48 laboratory and research sites worldwide offer customers innovative solutions in the area of surface protection and surface finishing. Every fifth ALTANA employee globally works in research or application technology.