Firestone Michigan

The Tire Shoppe & Auto Mechanic Repair – Firestone History (Waterford, MI)

Founding & Growth:

• The Firestone Tire and Rubber Company was established in 1909 and is now a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas.
• The company has been successful in multiple industries, including construction, repair, and vehicle maintenance.
• Firestone’s dedication to quality service and reliable tires has allowed it to remain an industry leader.
• Today, Firestone operates over 1,600 stores and plans to expand by approximately 50 new locations per year.

The Legacy of Harvey Firestone:

• Firestone was founded by Harvey Firestone, who started as a racing enthusiast and later became a major figure in the automotive industry.
• The company has played a significant role in IndyCar racing, contributing to the Indianapolis 500 for over 60 races.
• Firestone continues to support professional racing and plans to remain a key contributor to motorsports.

Headquarters & Global Presence:

• Originally founded in Akron, Ohio, Firestone later moved its headquarters to Nashville, Tennessee.
• Firestone operates globally, with leadership currently under Gary Garfield (CEO & President) and Eduardo Minardi (COO).
• The company started with only 12 employees but quickly became one of the largest tire suppliers, competing with Goodyear for over 75 years in North America.

Expansion into Canada:

• In 1918, Firestone expanded into Canada, establishing Firestone Tire and Rubber Company of Canada.
• The company set up operations in Hamilton, Ontario, and by September 15, 1922, launched its first Canadian-made tire.

Major Achievements & Innovations:

• In 1926, Firestone created the world’s largest rubber plantation in Liberia, West Africa, covering over one million acres.
• Firestone also opened its first automotive repair and maintenance store, known as Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Firestone’s Manufacturing Growth:

• In 1932, Firestone established a manufacturing plant in Memphis, Tennessee, which became its largest tire production facility worldwide.
• The Memphis plant employed over 3,000 workers and celebrated producing 100 million tires on July 1, 1963.
• The plant eventually closed in 1982, but it remains one of Firestone’s most significant accomplishments in tire manufacturing.

Firestone has a rich history of innovation and industry leadership, continuing to provide high-quality tires and automotive services worldwide. Visit The Tire Shoppe & Auto Mechanic Repair in Waterford, MI, for expert tire services and auto repairs!