Craig Smith retires after 25 years at Academy Brushware helm

A tribute to Craig Smith from the team at Academy Brushware

It is not often you get to work alongside someone who defines an entire industry. For us, that person has been Craig Smith.

After 25 remarkable years at the helm, Craig will be retiring at the end of December 2025. While it’s hard to imagine our company without him, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate his legacy-a legacy built on grit, vision, and an unshakable belief in doing things the right way.

From the early days of handshakes to leading one of the most respected names in hardware, Craig has never lost sight of what matters: quality, relationships, and trust. He’s been more than a managing director-he’s been a mentor, a trailblazer, and a true icon in the hardware world.

His influence reaches far beyond our walls. Many of you have worked with him directly, shared stories, solved problems, and built things-literally and figuratively-that will stand the test of time. That’s the kind of legacy that doesn’t retire.

As Craig steps into this next chapter, we want to thank you for being part of his journey. The Executive Team remains committed to the values he’s instilled in all of us, and we’re excited to carry his vision forward with the same energy and integrity.

We’ll be celebrating Craig in the coming months, and we’ll share more soon. For now, we simply say: thank you, Craig… You’ve built more than a company – you’ve built a legacy.

The industry responds

Within minutes of the announcement going live on the Academy social media pages, hundreds of messages poured in, echoing the sentiments in this tribute to a true leader. Due to space constraints, we have only included the first tribute received and that of our own- Natalie Sanders.

Norman Jackson from Plusten reflects on 30 years of collaboration

“As I reflect this morning on our journey together, I feel the need to extend my deepest gratitude for the long and enjoyable relationship we have shared over the past 30 years. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside you and to witness first-hand the qualities that have defined your remarkable career.

Your business acumen has always stood out – not only in the way you’ve navigated opportunities and challenges, but also in the steady, insightful guidance you’ve provided throughout the years. Equally, your people skills and humility have left a lasting impression. The way you’ve approached every interaction with respect, sincerity, and balance has made working with you both rewarding and memorable.

I truly value the trust, respect, and friendship that has grown between us, and I am grateful for the many moments we have shared, both professionally and personally. Please accept this mail as a small token of appreciation for the impact you’ve had on my life and work.”

Personal tribute from DIY Trade News

“On a personal note, I have known Craig since I started working at DIY Trade News over 30 years ago. I clearly remember when they did their management buyout and how the company did a complete U-turn under Craig’s leadership. Despite being at the helm, he has always attended events in person, which speaks volumes about his dedication and the respect he holds for the industry to which he has devoted most of his working life. Always smiling and quick to make a joke, Craig will be sorely missed. I wish him everything of the best for the future.”

– Natalie Sanders, DIY and Industrial Trade News

For more information: Call: 011-821-2900 | Visit: www.academybrushware.co.za