Plant Closures and Economic Challenges

The 1970s were devastating for Akron’s rubber industry. In 1975, Goodyear closed its Plant 1, and by 1984, BF Goodrich shut down its Akron factory, laying off 950 workers. Firestone also faced difficulties during this time, leading to concerns about the industry’s future. 

The Firestone 500 Recall

Smithers was drawn into controversy with Firestone’s radial tires. Around 1972, Firestone faced consumer complaints about tire adhesion, but the company denied any issues. A visit from two men requesting Smithers’ testing data regarding Firestone’s tires put Smithers integrity to the test. Bob Dunlop, Smithers’ head, refused to share the data, preserving the company’s ethical reputation.

The Changing Auto Industry

The 1970s and 1980s were marked by dramatic shifts in the automotive industry. The fuel crisis pushed manufacturers to focus on smaller, fuel-efficient cars, and foreign imports gained significant market share. By 1985, American “Big Three” automakers—GM, Ford, and Chrysler—were in direct competition with foreign companies like Toyota and Honda.

Smithers Growth and Diversification

Despite industry challenges, Smithers continued to grow and diversify. In the 1970s, it expanded its tire testing services, publishing monthly reports on radials and other types of tires. The company also responded to emerging consumer protection concerns by testing materials for flammability resistance and adding divisions for microscopy and chemical analysis of plastics.

Most significantly, Smithers made its first acquisition in 1975, purchasing Compliance Testing, Inc. (CTI) in Ravenna, Ohio. CTI, founded in 1968, had conducted tire testing and expanded into testing products like toys, appliances, and electrical controls. This acquisition allowed Smithers to broaden its services, including entering new sectors like medical device testing and food contact materials.

Expanding Beyond Akron

CTI’s acquisition included winter testing grounds in San Angelo, Texas, and Raco, Michigan. The latter, a former WWII airfield, became Smithers winter testing site, where tire and vehicle testing took place in harsh winter conditions. By 1975, the Raco facility was fully operational, and it evolved into a world-class testing site. Today, it hosts an average of 2,500 visitors annually, testing a variety of vehicles, including electric cars.

Leadership Changes and Looking Ahead

By 1984, Bob Dunlop, after nearly 30 years at Smithers, stepped down as Chairman of the Board. Herman Hochschwender succeeded him, and Doug Domeck, Dunlop’s nephew, was named president. This period of leadership transition coincided with further changes in the automotive and tire industries, setting the stage for Smithers’ future.

Today, Smithers, celebrating its 100th anniversary, continues to evolve, standing as a global leader in testing and consulting services.