INNOVATIVE WOODWORKING MACHINERY & EXPERTISE
JJ Smith Woodworking Machinery factory in the 1960s

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 at 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.

1923

JJ Smith was founded by brothers John James, Percy, William & Thomas Smith. Specialised in mechanical and electrical engineering based at Marlborough Works, Liverpool.

The JJ Smith woodworking machinery team in the 1920s

1930s

Started installation and servicing of woodworking machinery.
Took over 2 small local engineering companies who were manufacturing saw benches and sanders.

The JJ Smith woodworking factory in the 1930s

1940s

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.

JJ Smith woodworking machinery adverts from the 1940s

1950s

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.

The JJ Smith Woodworking machinery factory in the 1950s

1960s

Added sales of new woodworking machinery manufactured by Wadkin, Robinson, Cooksley. Expanded worldwide exports of used / reconditioned woodworking machines.

A JJ Smith woodworking machine from the 1960s

1970s

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.

The JJ Smith woodworking factory from the 1970s

1980s

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.

The JJ Smith woodworking factory from the 1980s

1990s

Consolidated position as one of the leading UK importers of high tech woodworking equipment.
Sold 7 acre site in Melling for housing development.

A JJ Smith woodworking machine from the 1990s

2000s

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.

The JJ Smith woodworking machinery premises in the 2000s

2010s

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.

Technology at JJ Smith woodworking machinery from the 2010s
Timber

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