Company

About Us

The origins of the company date back to 1845, when Mars Wilckens founded M. Wilckens & Sohn in northern Germany. For generations before him, the Wilckens family had been mill owners and grain traders, with their involvement in the grain trade tracing back to 1620. After the First World War led to the loss of export markets, Max Ernst Wilckens initiated the production of paints and varnishes in Glückstadt during the 1920s.

From Dry Pigments to Advanced Coating Systems

With a history of pigment grinding spanning over 175 years, Wilckens began with the production of dry paints based on natural raw materials. In the early 1930s, the company transitioned to synthetic-based paint production. Today, Wilckens manufactures and supplies thousands of tons of high-performance paints and coating systems annually, serving the yacht, industrial, marine, and decorative sectors.

A Solid Foundation for the Future

As a family-owned business now in its eleventh generation, Wilckens remains committed to sustainable, long-term growth. To meet evolving environmental standards and market demands, the company relocated to a modern production facility on the outskirts of Glückstadt in the late 1990s. Under the leadership of brothers Dr. Marcus and Michel Wilckens, the company has continued to expand, solidifying its position as one of Germany’s foremost independent paint and coatings manufacturers. In 2020, the next generation — Max and Johan Wilckens — joined the company, ensuring the continuity of its family legacy.

Products

Discover Our Antifouling Product Family

Antifouling paints protect boat hulls from biofouling—marine growth like algae and barnacles that reduce speed, increase fuel use, and cause surface damage. These coatings improve efficiency, extend maintenance intervals, and prevent corrosion. Self-polishing (SPC) types gradually wear off with water movement, constantly exposing fresh biocides—ideal for active vessels. Hard antifouling forms a durable layer that resists abrasion, perfect for high-speed or frequently cleaned boats. Choose the right type based on your vessel’s usage and care routine for optimal performance.

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