Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Cluett, a visionary and trailblazer in the brewing industry and a staunch advocate of the strengths and benefits of stainless steel. John’s remarkable contributions to the brewing industry in South Africa, as well as his pivotal role in the development and utilisation of stainless steel in the food and beverage sector, have left an indelible mark on the industry’s history.

John’s journey in the brewing industry began decades ago, when he embarked on a mission to revolutionise the materials used in brewing vessels. Through extensive studies and tests conducted in 1983, John meticulously documented the condition of brewing plants at SAB and diligently investigated incidents of plant damage.

His research paved the way for the substitution of coated mild steel fermenting and storage vessels with durable and hygienic stainless steel vessels. As a result of his pioneering efforts, SAB and SABMiller made the landmark decision to exclusively adopt stainless steel vessels that met approved standards after 1987.

In 2000, John took the lead in a ground-breaking project that examined the cleanability of stainless steel from both a soil/biofilm and microbial perspective. Collaborating with Columbus Stainless and other members of Sassda, John audited an entire brewery and oversaw the construction of a 700L research vessel. This ground-breaking work culminated in John being awarded a Master of Science degree from RAU.

In 2003, under the auspices of The Institute & Guild of Brewing, the findings of this project were used to create a seminal training book The Principles of Hygiene in the Brewing Industry. Co-authored by John in collaboration with Dave Rowlands, Dumisani Khanyile and Gavin Hulse, this book remains an invaluable resource in the SAB Institute of Brewing Solutions and continues to inspire readers worldwide.

Even after his official retirement, John remained a revered consultant for SAB, providing expert guidance on stainless steel matters. His exceptional knowledge and unwavering dedication to the industry ensured that his legacy would endure, and his impact would continue to shape the future of brewing in South Africa.

John’s lifetime achievements were acknowledged in 2016 when he was bestowed with the prestigious Sassda Lifetime Achievement Award for his unparalleled contributions to the brewing industry in South Africa. This well-deserved accolade was a testament to his visionary leadership, meticulous research, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Outside of his professional endeavours, John was known for his warmth, kindness, and infectious enthusiasm. He was deeply respected and admired by colleagues and friends alike, not only for his professional achievements but also for his humility and willingness to share his expertise with others.

John’s departure leaves a void in our industry, but his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his instrumental role in championing stainless steel as a vital component in the food and beverage industry will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and condolences go out to John’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.