James Smith Fencing (JSF) takes immense pride in its rich heritage. Founded more than 70 years ago by Jimmy Smith, the company began with a focus on fencing and contracting. Despite its significant expansion, these core areas remain central to the business today.
JSF continues to work with many of the same families its founder served decades ago, maintaining strong ties to the local community.
A legacy of expertise
The contracting division of JSF is overseen by Ian Smith, the company’s senior director. Ian, son of founder Jimmy, has been involved in the business since the late 1970s. Starting his career as a fencer gave Ian a solid foundation in the industry before moving into sales and gradually expanding the company into the largest fencing supplier in the country.
With 44 years of experience, Ian’s in-depth knowledge and hands-on approach have been key to JSF’s continued success. The company is well known for its loyal and long-serving staff, with some members having been with JSF for over 30 years.
One remarkable fencer has even been with the company for an incredible 50 years.
This depth of experience is a cornerstone of the business, ensuring that every project is handled by seasoned professionals.
This expertise is why JSF is so committed to supplying the highest quality fencing materials to their clientele—they know exactly what the customer needs.
EstateWIRE FX: Innovation in fencing
JSF has recently started supplying ArcelorMittal’s new range of EstateWIRE FX fencing.
This product combines the company’s anti-corrosion wire technology with advanced x-knot manufacturing techniques, ensuring a more robust and long-lasting fence.
EstateWIRE FX is manufactured using continuous horizontal and vertical wires that are joined together at every cross-over point by individual x-knots, making the fencing incredibly sturdy.
“This new style of knot has replaced the traditional hinge joint used in stock fencing,” explained Mr Smith.
“It offers a stiffer joint, and the wire is much more stable, which has made it very popular.” The fencing is galvanised with a mixture of zinc and aluminium, providing enhanced resistance to corrosion compared to products galvanised with zinc alone.
The addition of aluminium doubles the corrosion resistance, allowing ArcelorMittal to offer a 20-year guarantee on EstateWIRE FX products.
While there is a slight price increase for this new fencing material, it has quickly earned a strong reputation.
“We do a lot of contracting ourselves, but we’re also a major supplier to farms, estates, and other contractors.
This product has become very popular among them,” Mr Smith said. “It’s more durable, making it contractor-friendly.”
He added that his own fencers have been particularly impressed by the product.
ArcelorMittal states: “EstateWIRE FX answers both the contractor’s need for a strong, rigid fence that is quicker and easier to install, and the investor’s need for a long-lasting fence that provides long-term security and peace of mind.”
Trusted experience and personal service
Ian’s leadership is supported by David Parker, a former fencer who has been with the company for decades.
Together, Ian and David oversee the logistics of fencing projects throughout Dumfries and Galloway, ensuring smooth execution from site visits to project completion.
JSF’s commitment to quality and service has kept it at the forefront of fencing in the region.
Their products are built to last, just like the relationships they maintain with their clientele.
A wide range of fencing solutions
JSF offers a comprehensive range of fencing solutions, catering to both residential and commercial needs.
From simple garden fences to more complex industrial security barriers, the company has the expertise to deliver high-quality installations.
JSF is particularly well-regarded for its agricultural fencing, providing a wide selection of materials to meet the specific needs of farmers and landowners.
The most popular agricultural fencing set-up at JSF includes UC4 posts, square stobs, B-net Rylock, and two strands of barbed wire, making it ideal for keeping cattle secure.
The company also offers options for sheep fencing, such as low-net, high-tensile solutions.
In addition to fencing, JSF builds custom cattle pens, sheep pens, and other holding areas using durable materials like box beams and crash barriers.
Their in-depth knowledge of fencing materials ensures clients receive the best products for their specific needs—whether it’s fully creosoted posts for longer-lasting fences or budget-friendly options.
Behind the family fence
Based in Tongland, near the small fishing town of Kirkcudbright, JSF was founded in 1950 by Jimmy Smith.
The company initially offered fencing and general agricultural construction work, employing just five or six people in its early years.
Today, JSF has grown into the largest fencing supplier in the country, with a dedicated team of 30 employees.
The business continues to be owned and operated by Ian and his wife, Lee, who joined the company in 1978.
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