Liverpool based woodworking and machinery experts, JJ Smith are celebrating their Centenary this year, and with an exciting year on the horizon, we look at what they will be doing to mark the occasion.
Founded in 1923 by brothers John James, Percy, William, & Thomas Smith, JJ Smith specialised in mechanical and electrical engineering and were based at Marlborough Works, Liverpool. Since then, JJ Smith have welcomed four generations of family members, who have managed and owned the business, and now call Knowsley Industrial Park, Kirkby their home with over 40 staff (some of whom have been employed by the company for over 45 years).
-
- The first known photo (around 1900) of the Smith Brothers L-R – John James, Percy, Tom and William (bottom) Sisters – Ann, Isabelle, Maimie and Sissy
-
- Current Managing Director of JJ Smith Rachael Baker, one of the fourth generation to work in the business
This year, JJ Smith are marking their 100th year in true style. Managing Director, Rachael Baker told us, “it’s a really exciting time for us at the business, and there is so much going on for us this year to celebrate our centenary”. Rachael, who has been at the company since 2013 and whose Great-Grandfather was a founder, revealed that they will hold a large celebration at the famous Liverpool Cathedral in June, hosting over 200 stakeholders. Rachael comments that, “this year’s celebration isn’t just about marking our 100 year milestone, but it is also an opportunity to show thanks and recognise the incredible employees, suppliers, and customers, who have been on the JJ Smith journey too. We can’t wait to get everyone together and hear people’s own memories and stories of the company”.
Alongside their party, JJ Smith have arranged a ‘100 days of volunteering’, where they are encouraging their staff to undertake voluntary work on company time. JJ Smith recognises that a lot of their success has stemmed from the community, and believes it is only right to give back. Since the start of the year, JJ Smith staff have committed to voluntary work for the foodbank, educating local children about STEM, and have gone on trips to nature sites with schools in the area.
-
- John James Smith pictured in the factory as it was in the 1940s
-
- The current 40,000sq ft JJ Smith factory and showroom where customers can view state of the art woodworking machinery
When asked how JJ Smith have remained authentic to their history, Rachael revealed that, “the company upholds the tradition of being innovative and that they want to be continually evolving. We are proud to have helped so many customers to become more productive and profitable through the use of specialist machinery.”