SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – The Dow Chemical Co. announced that it has named Dow Automotive as its first industry-focused business unit. The new Dow Automotive will integrate Essex Specialty Products, Auburn Hills, Mich., and its joint-venture partnerships and resources to offer an even broader product portfolio including adhesives, sealants and coatings. Dow Automotive and Essex facilities worldwide will take part in the transition process.

Lawrence A. Denton, who joined Dow Automotive in 1996 as global vice president, has been named president of the organization. Denton formerly held engineering and management positions with Ford Motor Co.

Dow Automotive is prepared to contribute significantly to the overall growth goals of The Dow Chemical Co. The resources and people of Dow Automotive will help take the company to the next level, according to Denton. To accomplish this, Dow Automotive will operate under a new business model. The organization will offer more than the traditional Tier-Two supplier by providing more resources to meet the needs of its customers worldwide. Dow Automotive will provide innovative solutions, including a broad product portfolio, and increased technical and application development expertise for systems, parts and modules.

This growth initiative builds upon the success of Essex Specialty Products and its various joint-venture relationships. Integrating these companies into Dow Automotive will result in a broad-er product offering that includes plastics, adhesives, sealants, and reinforcing and acoustical management systems for use in automotive applications for interior, exterior, and chassis/powertrain components and systems.

Additional information regarding Dow Automotive products and services can be found at www.dowautomotive.com.

Links

• Dow Automotive