The present invention relates to a process comprising the steps of a) contacting an aqueous dispersion of a TiO2 slurry containing adsorbing dispersant with an adsorbing latex to form a mixture, wherein the pH of the mixture of the TiO2 slurry and adsorbing latex are sufficiently high to inhibit interaction between the TiO2 and the adsorbing dispersant; then b) lowering the pH of the mixture of step a) sufficiently to promote interaction between the TiO2 and the adsorbing latex, thereby forming a composite; wherein the adsorbing latex comprises structural units of itaconic acid or a salt thereof. The process of the present invention provides for improved hiding and reduced grit for coatings compositions.