A small chemical paint company that set up shop in the city of Niles in 1948 now operates world wide, and the third generation of the same family is marking a 70th Anniversary in business this month. Now known as NCP Coatings of Niles, the company exudes the entrepreneurial spirit to this day that has made them a key vendor to business and industry over the years.
Founded by C.M. “Marvin” Hannewyk II, what was originally known as Niles Chemical Paint became a corporation 70 years ago in 1948. Still a privately-held business, NCP Coatings produces coatings that protect a broad array of things from industrial goods and equipment to nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers. That’s a solid reputation for a company committed to be the best. Headquartered in Niles, NCP also has facilities in Griffin, Georgia and Quattordio, Italy.
In recognition of their milestone anniversary, State Senator John Proos recently paid a visit to the NCP Coatings plant to deliver a special tribute to company officials. Saying, “NCP Coatings is a great example of the family-owned-and-operated businesses that are the heart and soul of our local communities and our economy,” Sen. Proos added, “It is an honor to recognize NCP Coatings for their three generations of dedication to Southwest Michigan and commitment to excellence.” The company was recognized by the Four Flags Chamber of Commerce three years ago for 2015 Industry of the Year honors in Niles.
Proos presented a special legislative tribute to Nat and Ben Hannewyk at the company’s facilities at 225 Fort Street in Niles. They mark the third generation members of the Hannewyk Family who are driven by the tradition of developing and manufacturing value enhancing coatings.
NCP Coatings produces a variety of industrial coatings, but the Hannewyks will tell you, “It’s the time and energy we invest in providing existing as well as prospective customers technical support that really differentiates NCP.” They note, “There is a formula for every coating, but many overlook the equally important formula for a successful application,” adding, “All the variables, from substrate preparation to spray equipment settings, must be aligned to maximize the effectiveness of the finishing process.”
The NCP website says, “Testimonials will verify that flexibility and attentiveness to the specific needs of each customer is what allows NCP the opportunity to work with a wide variety of businesses. These companies offer products ranging from metal castings that need basic protection to nuclear submarines and aircraft carriers that require highly specified coatings for long-term protection.” The most recent online profile shows the company with around 100 employees and annual revenues approaching $25-million dollars.
The Hannewyk family will tell you, “Our people, our experience, and our ability to support our customers and their employees at any level are the reasons we exist.” Their vision statement makes it clear, “NCP will establish and maintain relationships with customers that appreciate the value of well-engineered coatings. We will share our knowledge and experience with our customers to help them create consistency and efficiency in their paint application process. We will be rewarded by the confidence of our current and future customers.”
In the photo accompanying this story on Moody on the Market, Sen. Proos (ctr) presents the special tribute to Nat (left) and Ben Hannewyk (right) in recognition of the 70th anniversary of NCP Coatings. The tribute was signed by Proos; Rep. Dave Pagel, Congressman Fred Upton, and Gov. Rick Snyder.
