INNOVATIVE WOODWORKING MACHINERY & EXPERTISE
Formed 100 years ago, JJ Smith are a 4th generation family owned and managed company, which means we take the long view when selling woodworking machinery – building long term relationships and seeing first hand how our woodworking machines have helped grow their businesses. The best accolade we could have is the fact many of our customers come back to us time and time again when looking to renew or update their woodworking machines.
In our centenary year we have gathered together a gallery of photos from the past 100 years, we hope you enjoy looking back at them and spotting some familiar faces.
JJ Smith was founded by brothers John James, Percy, William & Thomas Smith. Specialised in mechanical and electrical engineering based at Marlborough Works, Liverpool.
Started installation and servicing of woodworking machinery.
Took over 2 small local engineering companies who were manufacturing saw benches and sanders.
Factory burned down during the 8 day blitz of Liverpool. Moved to new factory site in Melling and manufactured aircraft parts to help the war effort. Started production of the "Smith" classical range of planers, spindle moulders, circular ripsaws, sanders and mortisers.
Alongside manufacturing new woodworking machinery, the company also moved into sales of used / reconditioned woodworking machinery and began attending UK exhibitions to display and sell the Smith range of machines.
Added sales of new woodworking machinery manufactured by Wadkin, Robinson, Cooksley. Expanded worldwide exports of used / reconditioned woodworking machines.
Pioneered in the UK importation of woodworking machinery manufactured in Italy, Germany, USA and Japan. Due to demand for used woodworking machines in the Far East we opened up offices / showrooms in Singapore and Malaysia.
Melling premises extended with a new 15,000 ft warehouse to increase showroom / demonstration area. Opened showroom and offices near to Heathrow airport and joint venture companies J J Smith Italy and J J Smith Holland.
Consolidated position as one of the leading UK importers of high tech woodworking equipment.
Sold 7 acre site in Melling for housing development.
Moved into current 40,000ft2 factory and offices in Moorgate Road, Kirkby. Supplied the 1st CNC controlled copy lathe into the UK market and introduced the 1st Fully automatic crosscut saw to UK.
Began importation and sale of more specialised CNC machines for furniture parts, sofas, joinery etc. Entered into Anglo / Dutch joint venture to manufacture and distribute worldwide a range of equipment for Timber Frame House production.
Installed the first Timber Frame line in New Zealand.
JJ Smith celebrated 100 years in business in 2023 with a celebration at Liverpool Cathedral. 200 guests from 10 countries joined together with current and past employees, customers and suppliers to mark this historic milestone in business and reflect on the incredible achievements that have been accomplished over the past decades.
JJ Smith is awarded The King's Award for Enterprise in International Trade, the most prestigious business award in the country, recognising and celebrating business excellence across the UK. It serves as a testament to JJ Smith’s relentless pursuit of business excellence and innovation over the last century.
Watch Now We can help you choose the correct equipment and specification to suit your production needs.
See how we have helped our customers improve their productivity and profitability.
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