Plaid Enterprises, Inc. names Tom Russo as President and CEO

Peachtree Corners, GA: Plaid, a world leader in creative do-it-yourself products, announced that Tom Russo will be its new President and CEO effective October 2, 2023.

Russo joins Plaid after a successful career in consumer products, most recently as CEO of Sullivans, Inc., a designer and marketer of home décor products. In his eight years there, Russo expanded distribution, enhanced the new product development process and led two add-on acquisitions. On joining Plaid, Tom Russo said, “I am excited to join Plaid, an innovative market leader with a long track record of success. I hope to leverage my experience to continue Plaid’s long history of consumer inspiration and education, creative do-it-yourself product development, manufacturing expertise and supply chain excellence.”

Mike Harris, President and COO of DKM, Plaid’s parent organization, added, “We are pleased to add an executive of Tom’s experience and ability to lead one of our flagship companies.”

Russo will succeed Mike McCooey who has led Plaid for 30 years and is retiring in early 2024. Until then, he will aid in the management transition. During his tenure, McCooey oversaw the building of a new manufacturing facility, a new corporate office, four acquisitions and the establishment of a China-based subsidiary. He has been extremely active in numerous industry organizations, serving as Board Chair for the Association of Craft and Creative Industries, and later as Chairman of the Craft and Hobby Association. “We are grateful for Mike’s successful stewardship of Plaid for all these years and wish him the very best on his well-earned retirement,” said Harris.

On leaving Plaid, McCooey said, “While it’s difficult to leave a fantastic company like Plaid, I take comfort in knowing that a person with Tom’s background and values will nurture and grow our business going forward.” Mike and Sandra, his wife of 52 years, plan on staying in Atlanta, traveling, volunteering and spending time with their grandchildren.

About Plaid

Founded in 1976, Plaid Enterprises, Inc. (Plaid), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of creative do-it-yourself products. Plaid is the cornerstone of DIY culture, a respected source for innovative creative products, knowledge and inspiration. Plaid’s dedication to the ever-changing needs of end consumers and its customers has made the Plaid family of brands, including Mod Podge, FolkArt, Apple Barrel, Delta Ceramcoat and Bucilla, among the most recognized and desired brands worldwide. Please see the website www.PlaidOnline.com for further information about Plaid.

About DKM

The Dyson-Kissner-Moran Corporation (DKM) is a privately-owned international holding company with investments in the Craft, Aluminum, Semiconductor, Recreational Vehicle, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other industries. DKM develops and grows companies with strong management teams into leading competitors in their field of expertise. With a concentration on customer service, product innovation, improved productivity and strategically deployed capital, DKM's active stewardship and deep industry knowledge creates long-term value.