Smith Industrial Rubber and Plastics celebrates 50th anniversary
Smith Industrial Rubber and Plastics is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, recognizing five decades of service to customers across the Midwest and beyond.
Evolving from the legacy of Smith Oil Corp., which was established in the early 1900s, Smith Industrial Rubber and Plastics traces its roots to an accessories division formed by Smith Oil Corp. in the 1940s. Created to support the industrial needs of local businesses, the division became increasingly important as Rockford’s manufacturers and service companies continued to grow. Customers needed more than fuel and lubricants; they needed durable components and practical support to keep equipment running in demanding environments.
The incorporation of Smith Industrial Rubber and Plastics on July 6, 1976, marked a new chapter in that evolution and reflected a shift from a petroleum-centered business toward a more specialized industrial supply and fabrication company. While its capabilities expanded, the Smith name remained rooted in practical service, local relationships, and dependable solutions. That heritage continues through the company’s commitment to serving customers in Rockford and across the Midwest.
Today, Smith Industrial pairs broad product availability with technical expertise to deliver safe, efficient, and durable solutions for a wide range of industries. Its capabilities include hydraulic hose assemblies, industrial hose production, conveyor products and services, gaskets, plastics, power transmission products, loading arms and gangways, and metal and PTFE hose.
Smith Industrial also offers in-house and on-site support designed to help customers reduce downtime and keep operations running efficiently. These capabilities include hose testing, certification, asset management, custom gasket cutting, OEM hydraulic kitting, and mobile conveyor maintenance.
“For 50 years, Smith Industrial has been built on strong customer relationships, technical knowledge, and a commitment to doing the job right,” said General Manager Josh Henslin. “We are proud of our team, grateful for the customers and suppliers who have supported us, and excited to continue growing while delivering the dependable service Smith Industrial is known for.”
Smith Industrial joined the Singer Industrial group in 2018, strengthening its access to expanded resources, inventory, and national support while preserving the local expertise and relationship-driven service that have defined the business for decades.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The July/August issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Global Industrial. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dr. Bharani Nagarathnam and Frank Hurtte, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
