More Than Middlemen: The Essential Value Distributors Like Trans Western Chemicals Bring to Coatings

The paints and coatings industry is a dynamic and highly competitive sector, driven by innovation, regulatory compliance, and evolving customer demands. While manufacturers focus on producing high-quality products, distributors like Trans Western Chemicals play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between production and market delivery. Distributors are not merely intermediaries; they are strategic partners that enhance supply chain efficiency, provide market insights, and deliver technical and logistical support to manufacturers, formulators, contract manufacturers, and purchasing agents.

This blog explores the key value-added services that distributors bring to the paints and coatings industry, highlighting their impact on formulation development, supply chain continuity, and business growth—with real-world examples from Trans Western Chemicals, a leader in chemical and coatings distribution.

SUPPLY CHAIN EFFICIENCY AND MARKET REACH

Extending Manufacturer Reach

Paint and coatings manufacturers often lack the infrastructure to directly serve every formulator, technical director, or regional production facility. Distributors like Trans Western Chemicals expand market access by ensuring products are available in remote and underserved regions. With extensive logistics networks, warehousing capabilities, and delivery systems, they enable just-in-time inventory management and minimize stockouts or excess inventory.

Streamlining Logistics

Trans Western Chemicals optimizes transportation and storage, ensuring that paints, coatings, and raw materials—many of which have shelf-life constraints—are delivered in optimal condition. Their expertise in handling hazardous materials ensures safe and efficient distribution in full compliance with regulations such as OSHA, DOT, and EPA.

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE

Guiding Formulators and Technical Teams

Paints and coatings are highly technical, with variations in formulations for different end-use requirements. Trans Western Chemicals supports formulators and technical directors by recommending appropriate raw materials based on compatibility, performance specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Troubleshooting and Application Support

Beyond supply, Trans Western Chemicals offers troubleshooting guidance—helping identify and resolve issues such as poor adhesion, blistering, or formulation inconsistencies. This proactive support minimizes production delays and reduces waste.

INVENTORY MANAGEMENT AND CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS

Tailored Stocking Programs

Large-scale and niche manufacturers alike require reliable supply chains. Trans Western Chemicals delivers:

Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) to monitor and replenish stock levels

Just-in-Time (JIT) Delivery to reduce warehousing costs

Custom Blending for specialized formulations and unique product specifications

Small-Order Fulfillment

Recognizing that not all operations order in bulk, Trans Western Chemicals accommodates small and mid-size batch requirements, ensuring consistent access to premium inputs for contract manufacturers and smaller producers.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE AND FEEDBACK LOOP

Providing Industry Insights

Trans Western Chemicals interfaces regularly with purchasing agents, production leads, and R&D professionals. This enables them to provide upstream partners with insights into emerging trends, pricing dynamics, and raw material demand shifts.

Forecasting and Planning

Through ongoing analysis of customer ordering patterns, Trans Western Chemicals helps manufacturers anticipate demand, improve production scheduling, and mitigate supply disruptions.

VALUE-ADDED SERVICES BEYOND DISTRIBUTION

Training & Technical Development

Trans Western Chemicals provides workshops, certifications, and hands-on training for production teams and technical specialists on formulation strategies, compliance requirements, and application best practices.

Digital Integration & Tools

Leveraging modern technology, Trans Western Chemicals enhances customer experience with online ordering systems, digital catalogues, and formulation tools that streamline procurement and development workflows.

ENHANCING SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

Promoting Sustainable Solutions

With increasing focus on environmental stewardship, Trans Western Chemicals champions low-VOC and eco-friendly solutions, recyclable packaging, and end-of-life product management strategies.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

By consolidating shipments, optimizing delivery routes, and utilizing rail wherever possible, Trans Western Chemicals minimizes fuel consumption and emissions—supporting sustainability goals across the coatings and chemical industries.

Conclusion

Distributors like Trans Western Chemicals are integral to the success of the paints and coatings industry, offering far more than logistics. They are partners in innovation, formulation, compliance, and sustainable growth. For formulators, technical directors, contract manufacturers, and procurement teams, partnering with a knowledgeable and responsive distributor is not just beneficial, it's essential.

Looking for a distributor who understands your business? Contact Trans Western Chemicals today to enhance your supply chain and access expert-driven solutions tailored to your production goals.

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc., a west coast distributor of specialty chemicals, has hired Paul Seffrood as an Account Specialist for CASE and Plastics in Southern California. 

Paul is a 30 year veteran of the chemical industry. He comes to Trans Western Chemicals from Lanxess, where as Key Account Manager, he covered the entire United States for the Heritage Emerald Kalama dibenzoate plasticizers and benzoic acid derivatives industrial business.  He has a degree in Chemistry and worked as an Industrial Coatings Chemist in the Chicago area for 7 years before starting his first sales job with TH Hilson (now Ravago). His area of expertise is in water based coatings for steel but he has formulation knowledge in many chemistries including 2K Urethanes, Epoxies, High Solid Bake Enamels, Old School Alkyds and, believe it or not, shoe polish. 

He moved to SoCal in 2004 with Eastman Chemical’s polymer division (now Polynt) selling latex polymers, alkyds and polyesters to the California market. He went on to work with Brenntag for 11 years in a variety of commercial leadership roles. He ran their specialty coatings business for multiple years in addition to running their other specialty businesses in Food, Water Treatment, and HI&I on the West Coast before joining Emerald Kalama. “I’m thrilled to have Paul join our CASE and Plastics team”, said John Kirsch, VP of Operations, “His expertise and technical acumen supports our companies commitment to service and technology”.  

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc. a family owned and operated specialty chemical distributor based in Southern California announces the hiring of Mark Hana for the position of Chief Financial Officer. 

In addition to managing the daily financial functions, Mark will be working with the executive team to develop financial strategies that support Trans Western’s revenue growth as a market leader in Specialty Chemical Distribution. Mark will work out of the Company’s corporate headquarters in Fullerton.

Mark has a diverse finance background, working specifically with family-owned operations to develop long term success. He has held a variety of senior level finance positions, most recently as the CFO of Allen Tire, and then prior to that the CFO of Market Refrigeration Specialists. Mark is a licensed CPA in California, and earned his Bachler’s degree in Business Administration and Accounting from Cal State Fullerton.

“Mark brings an unparalleled level of financial and operational expertise to Trans Western Chemicals”, exclaimed John Kirsch VP of Operations, “We’re happy to have someone with his acumen joining our team”.

Trans Western Chemicals Opens CARE Division, led by Rob Abyane

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc. a family owned and operated specialty chemical distributor based in Southern California has announced that it has split its sales focus into two separate divisions, CASE & Plastics and CARE, effective May 1st, 2022. 

Since the addition of Rob Abyane in 2018, the company has experienced phenomenal growth in CARE, where he has developed a tremendous technically driven rapport amongst accounts in the following key markets: Car Care, HI&I, Janitorial & Sanitation, Contract Manufacturing, Personal Care, and more.

With this new divisional focus, Rob Abyane has been promoted to the VP of CARE driving further growth for CARE on a national level. “We’re are thrilled with Rob’s accomplishments thus far, and believe strongly in his technical acumen & leadership skills,” said John Kirsch VP of Operations, “Trans Western Chemicals will continue investing in Rob and this new Sales Divisions success”.

TWC Core Value #10

Celebrate our Successes and Achievements! And what an achievement March 2022 was, blowing right past our highest sales record in company history. Each and every team member gave it their all and man what a spectacular month it was. Great Job Everyone! You guys killed!

So in true Trans Western form, we popped that Champs!

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc., a west coast distributor of specialty chemicals, has hired Todd Hilson as VP of Supply to support the businesses expansion and growth requirements.

 Todd is a 23-year veteran of the chemical industry, and comes to Trans Western Chemicals from Ravago Chemicals North America, where as Regional Purchasing Manager, he managed the Central Region across all industries. He joined TH Hilson Company in 1997, serving a variety of roles from sales, operations, and supply chain management up until Ravago Chemicals North American acquired TH Hilson Company in 2016. Hilson left Ravago Chemicals North American in June 2020 to pursue other interests outside of the chemical industry, but found his way back in this new, exciting role.

 He has joined Trans Western Chemicals as their VP of Supply, leading the company’s supply chain team, where he will be responsible for strengthening the company’s supplier relationships, overseeing sourcing, purchasing, and inventory management. Todd is a certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and has his MBA from Keller Graduate School. “We’re delighted to have someone with Todd’s experience and professionalism join our growing team”, said John Kirsch, VP of Operations, “This addition will further fortify our supplier relationships, and allow us to better serve our customer base”.

 For more information on Trans Western Chemicals please visit www.twchem.com.

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc., a west coast distributor of specialty chemicals, has hired Claudia Urrea as a Customer Service Specialist to support the businesses ongoing growth.

 She will be working out of Trans Western Chemicals, Fullerton, CA headquarters.

 Claudia has worked in chemical distribution as a Customer Service Specialist for more than 15 years. She will leverage her unrivaled expertise and meaningful customer relationships to continue elevating Trans Western’s customer service to new heights.  “Trans Western Chemicals is committed to offering that next level customer experience”, said John Kirsch, VP of Operations, “And I think the addition of Claudia, an unparalleled customer service professional illustrates that vision, which sets us apart.”

Claudia is a So Cal native, where she married her husband of 30 years. She has four beautiful children, she loves animals, listening to music, and in her spare time she sews quilts a hobby she and her sister learned from their mom.

 Please feel free to give Claudia a quick Hello, currea@twchem.com. For more information on Trans Western Chemicals please visit www.twchem.com.

2021 has been one heck of a year, filled with many curve balls, but the entire team at Trans Western Chemicals has continued to hit home runs! I’m so proud of every single team member and what they’ve accomplished this year. In honor of their effort as well as meeting a significant goal in September John setup a dunk tank and taco truck. Monday’s can typically be quite the drag, but I think this special event really kicked off the week with some fun and excitement.

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc., a west coast distributor of specialty chemicals, is excited to announce that Jason Gitt will be joining the company as an Account Specialist covering South Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana.  

Jason has 28 years in the chemical industry with a strong background in plastic compounding and specialty chemical distribution. He started his career in manufacturing and product development at a plastic compounder where he worked his way to general manager. For the past 12 years Jason has been in specialty chemical sales in the CASE industry serving as a technical industry manager and regional sales manager. Jason has a BS in chemical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology.

“Jason is an excellent addition to our growing technical sales team, and we’re thrilled to be welcoming him to the TWC family”, said John Kirsch VP of Operations.

For more information on Trans Western Chemicals please visit www.twchem.com.

Family owned and operated Specialty Chemical Distributor Trans Western Chemicals has agreed to an exclusive distribution agreement with CHT USA for the Car Care market in the Western United States.

Beginning October 1st, 2021, Trans Western Chemicals will be representing CHT’s full line of specialty silicone products for the Car Care market.

Trans Western Chemicals is a growing regional distributor based in Southern California, with market focus in CASE, HI&I, Plastics, Rubber, and Personal Care. “Car Care is a rapidly growing segment for Trans Western Chemicals, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with CHT, one of the best in the industry”, John Kirsch, VP of Operations, said.

For more information on Trans Western Chemicals, please visit www.twchem.com.

The CHT Group, a medium-sized player and "hidden champion" for specialty chemistry, is active worldwide in development, production, and sales. The CHT Group's headquarters is in Tubingen, Germany. CHT products improve the quality, the functionality, and the performance of textiles, building materials, colors, coatings, papers, and agrochemicals as well as cleaning and care products for the field of consumer goods industry. Paul McCarrick, Head of Business Field General Industries NORAM, explained the goal for the partnership, "CHT's applications and R&D knowledge of car care is exceptional, and we look to strong partners like Trans Western Chemicals to challenge us to bring custom solutions that provide superior competitive advantages to customers."

For more information on CHT's expertise in Car Care, please visit https://youtu.be/Qyn6HhFvD5k.

Family owned and operated Specialty Chemical Distributor Trans Western Chemicals has agreed to an exclusive distribution agreement with Keim Additec Surface USA LLC for the Western United States.

Beginning October 1st, 2021, Trans Western Chemicals will be representing the following Keim product lines, for a variety of key markets including Paint & Coatings, Inks & Printing, HI&I, and Car Care.

·      KAS/CHT ULTRALUBE Water base Wax Emulsions
·      EUROCERAS PE PP Synthetic Dry Waxes
·      CERONAS Micronized Dry Waxes
·      CHT Paint & Coatings Additives

 Trans Western Chemicals is a growing regional distributor based in Southern California, with market focus in CASE, HI&I, Plastics, Rubber, and Personal Care. “We continue focusing on quality products, and partnering with suppliers who believe in that approach”, said John Kirsch VP of Operations, “Keim Additec has developed a very robust product line, and we’re extremely excited to begin promoting it across out client base”.

For more information on Trans Western Chemicals, please visit www.twchem.com.

FULLERTON, CA – Trans Western Chemicals, Inc., a west coast distributor of specialty chemicals, has hired Noe Funes as a Customer Service Specialist to support the businesses growth.

He will be working out of Trans Western Chemicals, Fullerton, CA headquarters.

Noe is a driven professional with a proven track record of building strong customer relationships, and he’ll utilize his experience and skillset to provide world class customer service at Trans Western Chemicals. “Noe fits in perfectly with our company culture and our commitment to offering an amazing customer experience”. said John Kirsch, VP of Operations, “We have no doubt he’ll make an excellent addition to our winning team”.

Noe is originally from the LA area but has called Fullerton home for the last few years. In his spare time you can find him with headphones glued to his ears, cranking out his favorite tunes. When he’s not rocking out, he’s catching up on his favorite shows, or yelling furiously at the tv while he roots for his Lakers or 49ers.

Please feel free to give Noe a quick Hello, nfunes@twchem.com. For more information on Trans Western Chemicals please visit www.twchem.com.

I can't believe July is all ready coming to an end, this year is flying! Before it zooms right by you, I'd make sure you take a look at this months newsletter featuring our very own Izzy Estela in Customer Service!

Check out our July Issue

Trans Western Chemicals Inc. welcomes Barry Haugen as an Account Specialist for the Pacific Northwest and Key Accounts in Southern California, supporting the company’s territory development.

Barry has been working in the Chemical Industry for more than 30 years, having previously worked for Pace International, Lonza/Arch, and Troy. He has a rich history of success in specialty raw materials, with an emphasis in biocides, flame retardants, polymers, and additives. Over the course of Barry’s career, he has developed many meaningful relationships with clients across the entire Western Region of the US. 

His vast expertise in chemistries and markets core to Trans Western Chemicals, will prove invaluable for the business and its supply partners.

“We are incredibly excited to have Barry join our growing team of technically strong Account Specialists,” said John Kirsch, VP of Operations for Trans Western Chemicals, “he plays a crucial role in our growth and expansion efforts in the West”.

I know after the long Thanksgiving weekend you might be feeling full, but the TWC Newsletter is like a delicious dessert.....there's always room for more! Check out our November issue!

If you’re looking for a break from all of the Election Chaos why not give our October Newsletter a gander. Here’s the Trans Western Chemicals Newsletter, enjoy!

For everyone in the know, you probably received this in your email. For the rest of you, go ahead, click on the link. TWC Newsletter

Family owned and operated Specialty Chemical Distributor Trans Western Chemicals has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Prom USA for the Western United States, effective February 28th, 2020. .

Headquartered in Foxborough, MA, Prom USA is a prominent sustainable manufacturer of specialty biocides including BIT, CMIT, Bronopol, and DBNPA just to name a few with applications in a variety of markets including CASE, HI&I, and Personal Care. “I am pleased to be working with a distributor as reputable and experienced as Trans Western Chemicals, who will give us the expanded sales coverage we need to support these critically important biocide actives”, says Bernard Franc, Vice President of Prom USA. “As the list of cost effective and commercially acceptable biocide actives only gets smaller, Prom is committed to the longevity of these strategically important actives to benefit US businesses.”

Trans Western Chemicals has been serving the Western US since 1981, focused on providing quality products and technical expertise to the HI&I, Personal Care, CASE, Plastics, and Rubber markets. “This partnership will strengthen our supply position in key developing markets and increase the value we can offer our long-standing customer base,” said John Kirsch VP of Operations at Trans Western Chemicals, Inc. 

For more information please visit www.twchem.com

Don’t miss out on our February Newsletter, click on the link below!

https://conta.cc/2PnLwut

Kuncai Americas, LLC and Trans Western Chemicals, Inc have entered into an exclusive distribution agreement for the Western US effective February 1st, 2020. Trans Western Chemicals will represent Kuncai Americas full line of Effect Pigments for the CASE, Plastics, and Personal Care markets.

Kuncai Americas LLC is the North American sales and marketing office for their parent company, Fujian Kuncai Material Technologies Co. Ltd. Kuncai manufactures world class pearlescent pigments for plastics, coatings, and cosmetic markets, specializing in synthetic mica products. Mara Golitz, CEO for Kuncai Americas said, “We are excited to announce the addition of Trans Western Chemicals to our distribution team. They will allow us to better serve our customers along the West Coast by providing local inventory, excellent customer service, and a knowledgeable technical team.”

Trans Western Chemicals is a family owned specialty chemical distributor serving the Western US and Texas since 1981. TWC is focused on offering innovative solutions to customers in the CASE, HINI, Personal Care, Plastics, and Rubber markets. “Partnering with Kuncai Americas allows us to further build on our commitment of offering only the highest quality products for our customers,” said John Kirsch VP of Operations for Trans Western, “Our clients have come to rely on us for innovation, and Kuncai Americas delivers on that promise.”