Craft-Art Company, the national leader in custom, high-end, solid wood countertops, announced today the retirement of company founder Ken Williamson. Craft-Art, a multi-million dollar enterprise, began in the basement of Williamson-s Atlanta home just over 10 years ago.

Beginning with two handcrafted products -- unique wood cutting boards and pot racks -- Williamson founded Craft-Art in 1998. The company now offers three distinct product lines which are distributed in all 50 states and Canada. "Ken-s love of quality, hand-crafted wood products and his unwavering quality standards have been the guiding principles that have contributed to our unprecedented growth," said Colin Maclean, Craft-Art-s president. Craft-Art, housed in its 33,000-square-foot Atlanta facility, has led the resurgence in wood countertops by developing a durable, furniture-grade product.

Williamson, 64, started thinking about succession planning over 18 months ago and has spent the last year away from Craft-Art-s day-to-day management activities. During the last year, Williamson has traveled the country training new distributors and fabricators and sharing his insight with the industry. "Craft-Art is Ken-s dream and we will take great pride in furthering his creation," said Dan Coats, Vice President of Corporate Accounts and Strategic Partnerships for Craft-Art. Williamson-s retirement, which is effective immediately, is not expected to disrupt the company-s operations or distribution network.

"There is a great team in place, and it is time for me to pursue some other interests and passions," added Williamson. "I have discovered that what I most enjoy is the creative process, be it creating a work of art, a new product, or starting a business. Sailing and diving are a close second, and I plan to spend more time enjoying warm weather."

Craft-Art, a company that believes service is as important as the quality of its products, will continue to expand its national distribution network, making it easy and convenient for customers to order quality, custom wood countertops for their home or business. "Thanks in part to Ken-s efforts, more and more people are able to enjoy gorgeous wood countertops," said Maclean.

When properly treated, solid wood surfaces are waterproof, heat resistant, stain resistant, food safe and low maintenance. Craft-Art Wood and its two privately labeled wood countertop lines, Heritage Wood and Heirloom Wood Countertops, are made from the world-s finest domestic, exotic and reclaimed woods.

About Craft-Art

Founded in 1998, Craft-Art provides the highest-quality wood countertops available in the industry. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, in a 33,000-square-foot facility, Craft-Art has a talented staff of craftsmen and technicians who take great pride in creating the most beautiful and durable wood countertops made anywhere. The company has a national network of dealers creating easy access for customers across the United States.

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