On Labor Day, Axalta Coating Systems celebrated 35 years of operations at its Front Royal Virginia manufacturing plant with a program, festivities, tours and barbecue for employees, their families, and local dignitaries. Front Royal’s celebration also coincides with Axalta’s 150th anniversary.

“2016 is a celebratory year for Axalta,” said Mike Carr, Axalta’s President–North America. “We are thrilled to celebrate 35 years at Front Royal and Axalta’s 150th year of innovation. Our Front Royal team has not only produced exceptional products, but has also been a pillar in the community with its scholarship and mentorship programs. I am confident that the next 35 years will be just as stellar.”

Built in 1980, Axalta’s Front Royal campus includes a manufacturing plant and a product warehouse that serves as an important regional service center. Currently, more than 400 employees work there. The facility produced its first batch of paint in 1981 and, today, manufactures and distributes millions of gallons of high quality paint products for refinish and industrial customers. Brands manufactured there include Cromax®, Spies Hecker® and Imron®.

Federal, state and local officials participated in the event, honoring Axalta with certificates of recognition to commemorate the event and the impact the facility has had on the regional economy and the surrounding community.

“Axalta clearly understands the importance of educating today’s youth and reaching into the communities where you operate,” stated United States Senator, Tim Kaine (D-VA) in a letter written to the company to commemorate the day. “I warmly applaud Axalta’s efforts and that of the Front Royal community for your commitment to education, economic growth and sustainability in the region.”

“As we work to build a new Virginia economy, businesses like Axalta are essential to creating new jobs and sustaining economic growth,” stated Virginia Governor, Terry McAuliffe in a letter he wrote to Axalta. “Thank you for all that you do to strengthen Virginia.”

Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) and Congresswoman Barbara Comstock (R-VA) issued a Certificate of Congressional Recognition, which proclaimed, “For 150 years, Axalta has been a leader in the coatings industry. We thank Axalta for their commitment to providing employment and driving economic growth in the Northern Shenandoah Valley.”

“We are excited to honor the great work that our employees have done for 35 years at our Front Royal plant and celebrate 150 years as a company,” said Lou Papa–Axalta Front Royal Plant Manager. “Our Front Royal family is so pleased to show off our facility to friends, family, and members of the community on this key milestone.”

The program was followed by plant tours and activities for children such as laser tag, inflatables, face painting and a photo booth. In addition, the crowd was treated to truck displays by the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services and vintage military vehicles by an Axalta employee.