9 November 2026

PPG and The Independent Distributor Alliance (Tidal) have announced a new partnership to strengthen the distribution of automotive refinish, commercial vehicle and industrial coatings across the UK and Ireland. The agreement gives Tidal’s 17 independent member businesses access to PPG’s coatings portfolio and technical expertise. 

PPG and The Independent Distributor Alliance (Tidal) have announced a new distribution partnership covering the UK and Ireland. The agreement gives Tidal’s Distributor Partners access to PPG’s coatings catalogue, spanning automotive refinish, commercial vehicle and industrial coatings, along with associated technical support and digital solutions. Tidal currently comprises 17 independent businesses operating from 27 locations across the UK and Ireland. 

For PPG, the partnership represents an opportunity to work with a network of experienced distributors with established customer relationships and the flexibility to respond quickly to market needs. For Tidal, access to PPG’s product portfolio and technical expertise broadens the range of opportunities available to its member businesses, enabling them to serve a wider customer base — from independent repairers and bodyshop groups to insurance-led repair networks, commercial vehicle operators and industrial businesses.

Shared Ambition and Customer Relationships as the Foundation 

Richard Goode, Automotive Refinish Director UK & Ireland at PPG, commented on the announcement: “We are delighted to announce this exciting partnership with Tidal, a milestone that reflects our shared commitment to delivering outstanding value, innovation, and long-term growth for the automotive refinish industry. By combining PPG’s market-leading coatings, digital solutions, and technical expertise with Tidal’s exceptional distribution network and customer relationships, we are creating a powerful platform for success.” 

Simon Byford, National Distribution Manager UK & Ireland at PPG, added: “We wanted to work with a group of respected distributors who were just as keen to build a genuine partnership with us. What stood out about Tidal was the strength of its customer relationships, the way its members work together and their ability to make decisions quickly. That gives us a really strong foundation to grow together.” 

Independent Distribution Network Strengthened by Global Coatings Expertise 

Graham Smith, Tidal Chairman, described the agreement as a significant step for the Alliance: “This is a significant step forward for Tidal. Working with PPG strengthens our position in the market and gives our Distributor Partners access to a much broader range of products and opportunities. Just as importantly, there’s trust on both sides and a genuine willingness to work together. We have a shared ambition to grow and make a real impact across the UK and Ireland.” 

Paul Blunt, Tidal Director, added: “We’ve brought together independent businesses with a huge amount of experience and strong relationships in their local markets. Having PPG alongside us means we can put even more behind those relationships, from a broader range of products and technical expertise to opportunities we can pursue together.” Both organisations have indicated that a series of product introductions and joint initiatives are in preparation, with further announcements to follow.

Source: www.european-coatings.com