AkzoNobel named title partner of the Design&Technology Symposium

The Yacht Racing Forum is delighted to announce a partnership with AkzoNobel. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, AkzoNobel employs approximately 35,000 people in around 80 countries. The company’s portfolio includes well-known brands such as Awlgrip, International, Dulux, Sikkens, Interpon and Eka and has been active in the yacht coatings industry for decades. The company is currently involved in the Volvo Ocean Race by being the official supplier of yacht coatings for all seven boats competing in the race. Additionally, AkzoNobel is the name sponsor of team AkzoNobel competing in this edition of the race.

“We are very proud to welcome such a prestigious company and a true innovator of yacht coatings as the title partner of the Design & Technology Symposium", says Bernard Schopfer, the organizer of the Forum. “ The Symposium attracts the sport’s key race boat designers, engineers, builders and technology providers. The conference is continuously growing in importance, and has become a must-attend event for everyone involved in the industry of race boats."

Odile Bernhart, AkzoNobel Area Sales Manager Yacht Retail, says: “We are pleased to be involved with this year’s Yacht Racing Forum. It’s a great opportunity to share knowledge and inspiration, and have thought-provoking discussions about design and technology with other yacht professionals. This year is an especially important year for us after our coatings partnership with Volvo Ocean Race. As the toughest sailing race in the world, it’s the ultimate test and showcase for our products.” 

The Yacht Racing Forum is the leading annual conference for the business of sailing and yacht racing. The event is composed of separate conference streams, but focuses overall on the importance of Design & Technology to drive innovation. Held on the first day of the Forum, October 22, the Symposium will focus on the latest developments and innovations within yacht racing. This includes the latest technology from the America’s Cup, safety innovations, foils and flying boats, rigid sails and new materials.

The event will take place on October 22-23, 2018 in Brittany, in the town of Lorient, at the heart of the mythical Sailing Valley, one of the world’s most dynamic venues for the sport and the industry of sailing and yacht racing.