It is your reaction to adversity, not the adversity itself, that determines how your life’s story will develop.
Such is the peculiar story of how Vogue changed its name to Twin Tread for over a year. One of the things that makes Vogue Tyre unique in the tire business is that we never manufactured our own tires. Just like Apple does not manufacture its electronics, but contracts the manufacturing to production experts, Vogue has always outsourced the production of its uniquely designed tyres.
In 1928, while still a relatively new company, Vogue changed its manufacturing supplier to Wheatley Rubber. The new manufacturer was not able to deliver quality tires and the Vogue Tyres produced were highly defective with discoloring and sidewall separations. However, Vogue was contractually obligated to continue with the manufacturing agreement.
Obviously, the situation could have serious consequences and destroy the trust of consumers and the Vogue Tyre reputation. To overcome this, the then founder, Harry Hower, reached out to Pennsylvania Rubber Co. to manufacture Vogue Tyres. To transfer the molds from the other manufacturer, Harry used the excuse that the molds had to be revamped and had them shipped to a mold shop in Akron, Ohio. After the rail company had possession of the molds, Harry had the bill of lading revised to read “Pennsylvania Rubber Co.” and had the molds directed to the new manufacturer. When the Wheatley Rubber found out they levied an injunction against Harry and Vogue Tyre so we could not use the Vogue Tyre name.
For just over a year our tires were manufactured and sold under the Delaware Corporation name of “Twin Tread” (which was also later used as a Vogue Tyre model name in the 90’s). When the suit was settled in 1929, we reverted to the use of the name Vogue Tyre. At the time, facing poor quality, changing suppliers, a major lawsuit, even having to change the name of the company, were some serious challenges that could have easily caused Vogue and its team members to feel like the tasks were insurmountable. But, by remaining steadfast in our commitment to providing exemplary quality tyres, unique sidewall designs and outstanding, passionate customer service provided a guiding light to lead Vogue Tyre out of the darkest of days.
Every day, companies are faced with adversity. Issues arise, some are bigger than others. But the strongest teams look at adversity not as a stumbling block, but as a steppingstone to greatness. It’s this mentality that will take Vogue Tyre through the next 107 years and will allow us to continue to be the most unique and highest quality tyres on the road today!