b'testp otsa company of colour firstsResene has built a reputation as a colour leader: I n 1969 Resene set up a new system of colour, the British Standard Specication colour range (BS2660 range), which provided a range of strong colours at a time when decorators were used to pastel colours. The launch of the BS5252 colour range in 1976 as a decorative paint collection was a world rst. Resene pioneered the development of coloured paint bases, where previously only white was used.Resene was also the rst company to offer a full range of testpots in New Zealand in 1981.I n 1985, the Total Colour Multi-Finish System was launched. Combining an extensive range of colours with interlinked tinting systems for both interior and exterior, the exibility and adaptability of this colour system was welcomed with open arms by speciersand retail customers alike.Resene delivered virtual painting technology into thousands of homes with the launch of Resene EzyPaint in 1999.I n 1999, the rst of the Resene fashion fandecks, The Range 2000, was released showcasing fashion colours for the coming years. Resene also launched thehugely popular The Range Whites & Neutrals in 2003.How did ColorShops get their name?Were often asked how ColorShops got their name. When the rst ColorShop was opened in Wellington in the 1970s, Tony Nightingale (son of founder Ted and father of Nick who runs Resene today) had to come up with a name for the stores. He decided on ColorShop rather than ColourShop because it looked better (more evenly balanced without the u) and would be unique. The capital S in the middlealso makes it more unique. Resene spells colour correctly for normal colour charts and articles. Tony had a huge impact on Resenes history, taking the company from a very small business to a nationwide business and then one that started selling overseas. Tonys spellingof the name ColorShop has been retained in his memory.Resene Half Tea A radical step is made to the wayTonys son Nick takes over Resene paint is sold. Instead of Reseneas general manager in thebeing just a manufacturer and supplier, late 1990s, then becomes it decides to side-step traditional salesmanaging director a few years outlets and set up its own regionallater. Resene also expands in to branches selling direct to painters andAustralia. architects. This is a huge gamble. In 1975, Resene opens the rst of 2 0 0 0s Resene launches its series of retail storesthe Resenethe PaintWise recycling and ColorShopsalmost by accident whenrecovery programme to deal Tony buys a wallpaper store. The storeswith unused and unwanted paint were overwhelmingly successful. and containers. Much paints Resene joins the Environmentalis donated to community 1 9 9 0 organisations and used toChoice programme. cover grafti.The company introduces waterborne enamels, a friendlier alternative toResenesolventborne versions.Gum Leafearlyad v erti sem ents andp ai nt label 13'