PPG Industries Inc., a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials, recently announced plans to shutter its Elverson, Pennsylvania facility by the end of 2026. The Elverson site, formerly operated under Whitford Corp., manufactures low-friction, wear-resistant coatings essential to multiple industries, including automotive, aerospace, and notably, construction products that intersect with glass and glazing technologies.
Whitford Acquisition and Its Role in Glass Coatings
Whitford, acquired by PPG in 2019, specialized in advanced coatings that enhance glass surface durability and performance. The Elverson plant closure signals a strategic realignment as PPG aims to optimize its production footprint for greater sustainability and customer responsiveness, particularly in delivering consistent product quality and improved service reliability.
Financial Challenges Facing PPG in 2025
Despite its Fortune 500 stature and status as the world’s second-largest coatings company by revenue, PPG has faced recent headwinds. In April 2025, the company reported net sales of $3.7 billion, a 4% decline compared to the previous year, attributable to currency fluctuations and business divestitures, including the sale of a silica products line in 2024.
Market Trends Affecting Glass Coatings Demand
The glass coatings segment, integral to packaging and industrial applications, experienced volume challenges as automotive production slowed. This reduction impacted sales volumes, despite strength in industrial and packaging coatings. 
Implications for Glass Industry Stakeholders
For glass manufacturers and fabricators relying on high-performance coatings, PPG’s consolidation may herald changes in supply chain dynamics and product availability. However, the company stresses that this difficult decision is aimed at strengthening operational efficiency and enhancing customer support globally.
PPG’s Vision for Future Customer Service
Mark Silvey, PPG’s director of corporate communications, summarized the company’s vision: “This repositioning will allow us to better serve our customers with faster, more reliable service while managing costs in a competitive market.”
Source: PPG Industries Inc. with additional information added by Glass Balkan
