Globally Recognised Independent
Paint & Coatings Experts

Providing independent testing, product development, training and market intelligence services to the coatings industry since 1926.

Leaders in innovation

Commitment to staying at the forefront of new developments and innovations to deliver cutting-edge solutions to our clients, we are proud to push the boundaries of what is possible in the coatings industry,

Global reach & recognition

Globally recognised for our expertise and commitment to quality, we have worked with businesses all over the world, and our services are trusted by some of the biggest names in the coatings industry.

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Years of Experience

With nearly a century of experience in the paint and coatings industry, our company has built a reputation for excellence and expertise. Our team includes some of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the sector, and we are committed to providing the highest quality services to our clients.

Access bespoke solutions for your paint & coatings challenges

A catalyst for innovation since 1926

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With a rich heritage dating back to 1926, the Paint Research Association (PRA) is a world-renowned research institute which has played a pivotal role in shaping the paint and coatings industries through cutting-edge research, development and testing services. Today, we continue to facilitate innovation and growth within the global surface coatings community, providing businesses of all sizes with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their goals, from start-ups to multinational corporations.

As a trusted source of knowledge and guidance in the development and application of paints and coatings, we help our clients to develop innovative products and processes, optimise performance, and meet regulatory requirements, offering an array of expert services including research & development, independent testing, training, and market intelligence. Our state-of-the-art, UKAS accredited testing facilities are equipped with the latest technology, and staffed by experienced technical professionals who are dedicated to driving our industry forward.

Insight-driven solutions for your unique needs

PRA is dedicated to providing innovative solutions to the paint and coatings industry, addressing its unique challenges and helping businesses stay ahead of the competition. With our specialised expertise and comprehensive suite of services, we’ll help you navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of this dynamic sector, achieving measurable results tailored to your needs.

Product Formulation & Polymer Synthesis

Our experienced consultants evaluate project parameters, substrate, and end-use conditions to provide bespoke solutions for any challenge. We can formulate products for both architectural & industrial markets, and can prepare lab scale quantities of custom resins or dispersions. With our UKAS accredited laboratory and expert team, you'll have confidence in your product at every stage.

Product Development & Scale-Up Support

At PRA, we specialise in helping clients in the paint and coatings industry to overcome development challenges and bring their new products to market quickly and efficiently. From product development to scaled-up manufacturing processes, our team of APM & Prince 2 qualified technical staff are well-equipped to help you overcome any technical or logistical hurdles and ensure successful project outcomes.

Independent Testing & Evaluation

At our accredited UKAS laboratory, we don't just test products - we help you achieve excellence. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, our expert technical team conduct advanced evaluations to ensure that your products surpass the highest standards of quality, performance, and durability. From pre-application to post-application, we can test to global standards such as BS, ISO, ASTM & DIN.

Specifications & Benchmarking

Helping you to maintain your brand image, we offer a comprehensive quality assurance support package designed to ensure your coating materials meet performance and colour specifications, enhancing your customers' trust and loyalty in your brand. We develop bespoke specifications and test regimes and perform competitive benchmarking, to identify performance gaps and drive continuous improvement.

Coatings & Technology Scouting

Our industry experts curate and analyse technical and market information to deliver tailored recommendations, helping you stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving industry. We empower businesses to take strategic actions for growth, whether that involves sourcing new raw materials or technologies, assessing emerging trends, identifying acquisition targets, or selecting the right coating for their needs.

Market Research & Consultancy

We provide bespoke market research and consultancy services to help you make informed decisions and gain a competitive edge in the paint and coatings industry. Our experienced consultants and researchers offer insights and guidance to streamline operations, enhance product development, and explore new opportunities, with the industry expertise and actionable intelligence you need to drive growth and profitability.

Ecolabel Accreditation

Our specialist team is dedicated to helping you achieve EU or Nordic Ecolabel accreditation, and we make the process smooth and hassle-free. From testing in our approved laboratory to dossier preparation, we'll guide you every step of the way. Ecolabel accreditation is not just a stamp of approval; it's an opportunity to stand out from the competition, enhance your brand's reputation, and attract an eco-conscious consumer base.

Market Intelligence

Our Market Intelligence service provides trusted insights for the coatings industry. Under the Irfab™ brand, our team produces bespoke single-client studies and off-the-shelf multi-client reports for manufacturers, suppliers, and key stakeholders throughout the value chain. With over 30 years of experience, our reports cover a wide range of topics, including market size & growth, competitive landscape, regulatory developments, and trends.

Training

We're committed to providing expert-led training solutions that are tailored to your specific requirements, with innovative courses for every level of expertise. Our face-to-face training sessions take place at our headquarters in Melton Mowbray and are led by top professionals in the field. We also offer over 60 specialised distance learning modules for distance learning, along with bespoke training solutions designed to meet your unique needs.

In collaboration with leading industry groups & associations

At PRA World, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive innovation and excellence in the paint and coatings industry. That’s why we are proud to partner with leading industry groups and associations such as the British Coatings Federation (BCF), the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Oil & Colour Chemists’ Association (OCCA), the British Standards Institution (BSI), RadTech, and Vincentz.

These partnerships enable us to stay at the forefront of industry trends and regulations, providing our clients with expert insights and advice based on the collective expertise of our partners. Through these collaborations, we have undertaken numerous projects and initiatives that have contributed to our success and reputation in the industry. Our clients also benefit from our partnerships, gaining access to a broader network of industry professionals and resources, as well as opportunities for knowledge sharing and professional development.

Latest news from PRA

Discover the latest happenings at PRA, from the release of new insights from our industry leading Irfab market intelligence team, to updated calendars for events and training courses.

Begin your journey with PRA World

Get in touch with PRA today

At the forefront of paint & coatings research, we’re committed to supporting your project goals. Our expert team have the knowledge and experience to identify the right solution for your needs. If you have any questions, or would like more information about our products and services, get in touch today.