Gemini’s History
On December 22, 1964, William H. Smith started a company called Gemini Products. The name for the new company was taken from the constellation in the Zodiac called “Gemini” of the twin stars.
He had a degree in chemical engineering with a minor in mechanical engineering from the University of California and a background of serving in the Marine Corps during World War II.
After diligent work, the company grew to include a team of 13 people and moved to a 15,000-square-foot facility in El Reno, Oklahoma, and became known as Gemini Lacquers, Inc.
Over time, the name was changed to Gemini Industries, Inc. to better reflect the array of products and the expanding brand family. In 1994, Michael Smith purchased Gemini from William H. Smith. Michael continued to execute his father’s vision and in 2003, Gemini Industries, Inc. became 100% employee-owned.
1964
William H. Smith started Gemini Products, Inc. in a warehouse in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on December 22, 1964. He had a degree in chemical engineering with a minor in mechanical engineering and a background of serving in the Marine Corps during World War II. He had one 165-gallon tub, one machine to make lacquer and no customers. Smith was the batch maker, the business development manager, the delivery person and everything in between.
1970
After diligent work, the company grew to include a team of 13 people and moved to a 15,000-square-foot facility in El Reno, Oklahoma, and became known as Gemini Lacquers, Inc. Michael Smith, Bill’s son, also became involved in the business and the team and business continued to grow by focusing on making an array of beautiful wood coatings.
1978
Gemini established its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
1984
Gemini made its first growth acquisition, purchasing Super Coatings based in Dallas, Texas, and created an aerosols division.
1994
Over time, the company name was changed to Gemini Industries, Inc. to better reflect the array of products and the expanding brand family. In 1994, Michael Smith purchased Gemini from William H. Smith. Michael continued to execute his father’s vision and purchased Master’s Magic products.
2003
Gemini Industries, Inc. became 100% employee-owned.
2013
Gemini continued to grow, and created a partnership with Sirca S.p.A., based in Italy.
2014
Gemini celebrated its 50th anniversary as a company.
2016
Gemini purchased a new manufacturing facility in Grand Prairie, Texas.
2017
Gemini acquired Amteco based in Pacific, Missouri, which included Total Wood Protectant® (TWP®) exterior wood stains and Zero Rust® DTM coatings.
2021
Gemini opened a new stand-alone waterborne coatings facility on the El Reno, Oklahoma, campus.
2022
Gemini acquired the Lenmar® Wood Finishes & Coatings line from Benjamin Moore Paint.
2023
Gemini acquired the Rudd Company, Inc. including the Rudd® Wood Finishes and Glitsa® Wood Floor Finishes brands.
2024
Gemini Industries, Inc. celebrated 60 years of excellence.
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