The Chairman of Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, Abi Ayida, has urged the company to shift its focus from product-driven innovation to solutions that address pressing economic, environmental, and social challenges in Nigeria. Speaking at the unveiling of Berger Paints' CoolComfort thermal paint solution in Lagos, Ayida emphasized that innovation should be measured by its usefulness and ability to create tangible value, rather than just its novelty. This call for a shift in innovation approach highlights the company's commitment to addressing the country's challenges.
Berger Paints has unveiled its CoolComfort thermal paint solution, designed for both interior and exterior surfaces, which aims to reduce heat absorption in buildings while promoting energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environments. The product was introduced at an industry forum that brought together professionals and stakeholders from various sectors, including real estate, construction, architecture, and government, to discuss the future of Nigeria's built environment. The forum provided a platform for experts to share insights and ideas on sustainable solutions for the country's built sector.
Ayida stressed that Berger Paints' decades of experience in Nigeria's built sector place a responsibility on the firm to apply its knowledge to contemporary challenges. With the rising demand for structures that can respond to Nigeria's climatic conditions while delivering comfort and resilience, Ayida emphasized the need for practical innovation. He also advocated for stronger interdisciplinary collaboration among industry stakeholders to address the sector's systemic issues, which is crucial for driving sustainable growth and development.
The Group Managing Director of Berger Paints, Alaba Fagun, explained that CoolComfort was developed to address evolving consumer needs and environmental shifts. According to Fagun, the journey to CoolComfort was inspired by the need to enhance how Nigerians live in their homes and workspaces, creating a solution that responds to the country's climate, supports occupant wellbeing, and contributes to energy conservation. This underscores the company's commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet the needs of its customers.
Fagun added that extensive engagements with building owners, professionals, and occupants revealed that building quality must extend beyond physical structures and finishing. Building performance should be evaluated by the comfort, efficiency, and overall experience provided to users, Fagun noted, describing CoolComfort as part of Berger Paints' response to emerging challenges in the built environment. This approach highlights the company's focus on delivering solutions that enhance the overall quality of life for building occupants.
Ibukun Awosika, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Chair Centre Group, urged businesses to deepen their understanding of consumers and respond deliberately to changing market dynamics. Delivering a keynote address on "Innovation as a Catalyst for Sustainable Growth," Awosika emphasized that innovation must transcend new technologies and processes, describing it as a mindset that challenges established practices and delivers lasting value centered on quality, safety, and customer experience. Awosika's remarks underscored the importance of innovation in driving sustainable growth.
The unveiling of CoolComfort and the industry forum highlight Berger Paints' commitment to innovation and sustainability in Nigeria's built environment. With the country's growing demand for energy-efficient and comfortable buildings, Berger Paints' solutions aim to contribute to an improved quality of life for Nigerians. By shifting its focus towards problem-solving innovation, Berger Paints is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of Nigeria's built sector.
Key points
- Berger Paints Chairman Abi Ayida calls for a shift from product-driven innovation to solutions addressing real economic, environmental, and social challenges.
- Berger Paints unveils CoolComfort thermal paint solution to reduce heat absorption in buildings and promote energy-efficient environments.
- Industry stakeholders emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and a mindset shift towards innovation that delivers lasting value and addresses emerging challenges.
