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Excelsior Paints celebrates a rich legacy 

4 March 2025 Profiles

As Excelsior Paints nears its 88th anniversary this June, we celebrate the rich legacy of one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected independently owned paint manufacturers. From its humble beginnings as a family business to its rise as an industry leader, Excelsior Paints stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

Three generations, Connor Van Rensburg, Ron Lawson and Guy Lawson.
Three generations, Connor Van Rensburg, Ron Lawson and Guy Lawson. (Supplied)

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Founded in Johannesburg over eight decades ago, Excelsior Paints has grown alongside the vibrant city of gold and the economic powerhouse of Gauteng.

A true pioneer, Excelsior Paints remains steadfast in its commitment to manufacturing excellence, with every product subject to stringent quality control in its state-of-the-art laboratories. This dedication has earned it the trust of retailers and consumers nationwide, ensuring its reputation as a cornerstone of South Africa’s paint industry.

A FAMILY TRADITION: THREE GENERATIONS STRONG

Ron and Guy Lawson in their earlier days.
Ron and Guy Lawson in their earlier days.

Excelsior Paints has remained a family-run business since its inception, and currently, it proudly enters its third generation of leadership. Remarkably, all three generations of the family remain actively involved in the company, bringing a unique blend of wisdom, experience, and fresh perspectives to the business. This continuity ensures that the company’s core values of quality, innovation, and community engagement are upheld while embracing modern approaches to meet evolving market demands.

COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND INNOVATION

Excelsior Paints has always prioritised quality. This is reflected in its Life Expectancy Declaration, ensuring customers receive durable, reliable products. The Excelsior Academy of Paint Excellence further highlights the company’s dedication to education and customer empowerment, providing cutting-edge training to keep retailers informed about their latest products and applications.

DRIVING CHANGE IN EMPLOYMENT

One of the most impactful initiatives by Excelsior Paints is its innovative approach to deliveries. The company has outsourced its logistics to private individuals, creating employment opportunities for over 40 drivers across South Africa. This community-driven programme has allowed these drivers to establish sustainable livelihoods, some even expanding their fleets and creating further jobs.

Excelsior’s unique delivery model ensures seamless service for retailers, with exceptional order-to-shelf times and unmatched flexibility. Free delivery to retailers is a cornerstone of this programme – showcasing the company’s dedication to its partners and the broader community.

SUSTAINABILITY: GREEN IS THE NEW GOLD

In its commitment to sustainability, Excelsior Paints has embraced innovative green initiatives in recent years. The company has implemented an ultramodern water purification plant, harnessed solar energy by outfitting its factory roof with solar panels in partnership with Decentral Energy Services, and secured uninterrupted production with backup generators. These bold steps reflect Excelsior Paints’ dedication to environmental responsibility and a more sustainable future.

The standout ‘Return the Pack’ initiative has been a game-changer. Consumers can drop off used paint buckets (from any brand) at designated collection points, such as Leroy Merlin stores.

Excelsior recycles these buckets and reworks leftover paint for charitable donations, reducing waste and giving back to the community.

Additionally, Excelsior has begun packaging solvents in recyclable plastic containers, anticipating future environmental legislation and further cementing its leadership in sustainable practices.

INNOVATION FOR THE FUTURE

Innovation remains at the heart of Excelsior Paints’ success. The company has identified gaps in the market and continues to launch exciting new products that align with its green initiatives. These forward-thinking developments ensure that Excelsior not only meets but exceeds industry standards, setting benchmarks for competitors to follow.

Paint factory with solar panel on roof
Excelsior Paints factory with solar panels on the roof.

CELEBRATING 88 YEARS – WHAT’S IN STORE FOR RETAILERS

As Excelsior Paints approaches this incredible milestone, the company is planning a series of 88-year-themed promotions and giveaways to thank its loyal retailers and customers. These initiatives promise to drive excitement and engagement, further strengthening partnerships and fostering goodwill.

LOOKING AHEAD

Excelsior Paints has come a long way from its origins as a small family business. By investing in its people, the environment, and cutting-edge technology, Excelsior Paints is poised for an even brighter future, ensuring its next 88 years are as impactful as its first.

Stay tuned as we celebrate this momentous milestone with Excelsior Paints, where tradition meets innovation, and quality is always guaranteed.


For more information, Call: 011-474-1900 | Visit: www.excelsiorpaints.co.za

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