As S.J. Smith Company, Inc. moved from the late ‘90s into the new millennium, the company expanded their offerings in technology and services.

In 1997, S.J. Smith was one of the first welding distribution companies to own a fast-fill liquid oxygen system, nicknamed ORCA, which allowed employees to fill liquid cans on site in 1.5 minutes.  

As a result, S.J. Smith was able to quickly add capacity, and provide the benefits of a large bulk install with micro-bulk tanks. These upgrades in gas filling made it possible to deliver gas more efficiently to customers, and set the company apart as an early adopter for innovation in the gas and welding industry.

Expansion continued into Illinois and Missouri, as the company acquired Quincy, IL and Mexico, MO locations from a local family business, Central Welding Supply. In addition, a second floor was added to the main Davenport building to add offices, conference rooms and an entrance area.

In 2004-2005, the company brought in a barcode system, called Trackabout, to help the company and customers track their cylinders on site and in transit. Also, the Clinton and Peoria branches moved to new locations, offering expanded space and services for customers.

While the early 2000s were a period of expansion and innovation, transition was coming, sooner than expected.

What started off as a small welding supply company in 1950, has become a dynamic, problem-solving organization that focuses on providing top-notch service to all our customers, large and small. S.J. Smith uses the latest technology, training and experience to serve customers with the best solutions, whether that is in engineered laser gas installations, mobile app cylinder tracking capabilities, micro-bulk technology, weld training specific to your needs or certified equipment repair and more.

Our philosophy is to treat our customers and vendors with professionalism, responsiveness, and honesty. Our goal is to add value to business partner organizations, with our commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and mutual satisfaction, prompt responses and sound problem-solving advice. We work and live by our values of honesty and integrity, safety and customer-driven excellence, and our mission is to make our customers successful by providing cutting-edge solutions and quality products.

Over the past 75 years, the company has spanned three generations of the Smith family, and a few generations of employee families as well. In 2025-2026, we celebrate our past, and look forward to a bright future. Follow us on social media and check for updates at sjsmith.com to learn more.