On 2 May 2008, 3M, a diversified technology company known for its innovation, broke ground for a new coating facility - its most advanced outside the US. It will produce coatings for film-based products used in commercial, electronic and automotive applications. Construction of the facility, located in Tuas Industrial Park, is expected to be completed in 2009.

"This investment brings us closer to our customers and creates a regional source of supply, which significantly simplifies our supply chain and helps us respond more quickly to our customers' needs in the fast-growing Asia market," says Kevin Kuck, Vice President, 3M Film Manufacturing.

3M envisions the facility to not only manufacture products, but also conduct active R&D to deliver new products and innovations to the market. "In essence, Singapore will become an important node for arguably the world's most innovative company," says Julian Ho, Executive Director, Energy, Chemicals and Engineering Services, Singapore Economic Development Board.

Technology platforms to be employed in the plant include adhesives, film and light management as well as others related to processes and inspection. With the Singapore facility serving as a local coating centre of excellence, 3M stands in good stead to cater to the needs of the regional market and support efforts to accelerate growth.

As Donald Chang, Managing Director, 3M Singapore and Southeast Asia Region, says, "Singapore has all the ingredients for the technology-intensive manufacturing that 3M is involved in. Thanks to its geographical location, political stability, sound economic policies and supply of qualified labour, Singapore is the ideal location for us to service the Asia market."