Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, an iconic American tire brand, was founded by Harvey S. Firestone in 1900. Initially focused on rubber side-wire tires for fire apparatus, Firestone expanded into pneumatic tires for various vehicles. Its close association with Henry Ford marked a significant step in becoming a prominent name in the automotive tire industry. Acquired by Bridgestone in 1988, Firestone continues to be a major player in the tire market.
Early Beginnings and Expansion:
- Firestone was established in Akron, Ohio, and competed with other notable tire manufacturers like Goodyear, General Tire, and B.F. Goodrich.
- In 1906, Firestone’s tires were chosen by Henry Ford for his car models, marking the company’s entry into the automotive sector.
- The 1920s saw the introduction of the Oldfield tire, named after racer Barney Oldfield.
Global Presence and Innovations:
- Firestone expanded globally with the establishment of a plant in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1918.
- It opened a major rubber plantation in Liberia in 1926, alongside launching the first Firestone Tire and Service Center.
- The company innovated with the introduction of the tubeless tire in 1947 and radial tires in 1965.
World War II Contributions and Diversification:
- During World War II, Firestone produced various rubberized military products and artillery shells, ranking 55th among U.S. corporations in wartime military production contracts.
- Post-war, the company diversified into other products, including the Seiberling Rubber Company acquisition in 1965.
Restructuring and Bridgestone Acquisition:
- Faced with financial difficulties in the late 1970s, Firestone underwent significant restructuring under John Nevin.
- In 1988, Bridgestone, a Japanese company, acquired Firestone, integrating it into its global tire manufacturing operations.
Firestone Today:
- Firestone operates as a subsidiary of Bridgestone, with headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee.
- It remains a significant brand in the tire industry, offering products for various vehicles, including passenger cars and trucks.
Firestone Complete Auto Care:
- Firestone Complete Auto Care, established in 1926, is a chain of automotive maintenance shops offering tire services, oil changes, battery services, and more.
- With over 1,700 locations, it serves a significant portion of the automotive repair market in the United States.
Motorsports Legacy:
- Firestone has a storied history in motorsports, providing tires for the Indianapolis 500 and other racing events.
- The brand returned to professional motorsport in 1995 and has been the sole tire supplier for the NTT IndyCar Series since 2000.