Founded in 1923 by brothers John James, Percy, William and Thomas Smith, JJ Smith specialised in mechanical and electrical engineering and was based at Marlborough Works, Liverpool. Since then, JJ Smith has 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).
This year, JJ Smith is marking its 100th year in true style. “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,” said Rachel Baker, managing director.
Ms Baker, who has been at the company since 2013 and whose great-grandfather was a founder, revealed that the company will hold a large celebration at Liverpool Cathedral in June, hosting over 200 stakeholders.
“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,” said Ms Baker. “We can’t wait to get everyone together and hear people’s own memories and stories of the company”.
Alongside the party, JJ Smith has arranged a ‘100 days of volunteering’, where it is encouraging its staff to undertake voluntary work on company time. JJ Smith recognises that a lot of its 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.
“The company upholds the tradition of being innovative and wants to be continually evolving,” said Ms Baker. “We are proud to have helped so many customers to become more productive and profitable through the use of specialist machinery.”
