In 1945, three scientists set out with a vision: to create a universal language for colour communication. Eight decades on, that vision continues to shape industries worldwide –– a mission that has grown stronger with every year. Today, the Natural Colour System (NCS) is trusted in nearly 100 markets worldwide, bridging creative intent and production precision across industries from coatings and architecture to manufacturing and design.

To mark this milestone, NCS Colour has launched “Together in Colour”, a global initiative that celebrates the power of colour and the partnerships that have shaped its journey.

NCS is used across multiple industries, from the biggest coatings companies in the world, smaller challenger brands to forward leaning architect and designers. Explore customer voices of IKEA, Siemens, Alcro (PPG), Tengbom, Schotten & Hansen and Tarkett.[TC1] 

Colour as a core in business, coatings and design

Colour is far more than a visual detail – it is a strategic tool that shapes innovation, identity and decision-making across industries. When colour communication is inconsistent, the consequences can be significant: delays, costly errors and compromised brand integrity.

It is evident that the Natural Colour System (NCS) provides a universal framework that eliminates these challenges. By defining colour exactly as we perceive it, NCS ensures clarity and precision from the earliest design concept through to final production. Users consistently describe how this accuracy supports their work – enabling seamless collaboration and reducing risk. For coatings manufacturers, it means specifications remain reliable at every stage of the value chain, from formulation and mixing to application and quality control.

Why a common colour language matters

For those who rely on NCS, this consistency translates into trust and confidence. Whether selecting a shade for an interior, specifying colours for architectural projects or sourcing coatings for industrial applications, they know that what they see is what they will get. NCS empowers brands to deliver on their promises, ensuring colour remains a constant – not a variable – in the customer experience.

This systematic approach does more than streamline processes. It accelerates workflows, reduces waste and strengthens collaboration between designers, manufacturers and suppliers. In short, NCS transforms colour from a subjective choice into a measurable, reliable standard that enables businesses to create with confidence and customers to enjoy results that meet expectations.

Voices from the industry

Across the initiative multiple brands are heard, including PPG owned Alcro and Swedish design hero IKEA, both having the NCS system deeply rooted in both design and marketing processes.

• Alcro, PPG demonstrates how colour is more than a coating – it is the foundation of communication, identity and customer engagement.
• Siemens shares how colour management ensures accuracy in manufacturing, guaranteeing reliability across global operations.
• Tarkett reveals how it has transformed its colour processes from manual to digital, streamlining workflows and innovation.
• IKEA how colour is used as a strategic constant in product development, and secured with NCS in a global supply chain.
• Tengbom Architects highlights how colour shapes spaces and influences human experience.
• Schotten & Hansen showcases the craftsmanship of colour in natural materials, connecting design, production and sales.

These stories underscore a shared view: NCS is not just a tool – it’s both a language and a core reference point that connects industries, enabling collaboration and creativity without compromise, together in colour.

Looking ahead

As NCS Colour celebrates 80 years, the company’s mission remains clear: to make colour communication effortless, accurate and inspiring. Through “Together in cColour”, NCS invites designers, manufacturers and colour enthusiasts worldwide to share their own colour stories and join a global conversation about the role of colour in shaping our world.

Explore the campaign and share your story by clicking here.