Lori L. Mavrigian

Managing Editor

Since joining Modern Tire Dealer in 1979, Lori Mavrigian has held several key positions leading to her current title as managing editor. In addition to handling the day-to-day operations of magazine production, Lori writes features, contributes photography and is in charge of several of the magazines departments. She also works with the magazine's National Advisory Council for the exclusive Ludwig Report surveys. She earned a B.A. in Mass Media-Communications from the University of Akron.

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Time passes quickly when you're covering the tire industry

By: Lori L. Mavrigian

There have been a lot of changes in the tire industry since I started writing about it in 1979.

Thirty years! I can't believe it, but it's true. I started working for Modern Tire Dealer not long after college as an editorial/production assistant.

When I was promoted to a real writing position, my editor, Greg Smith, who is now my publisher, wanted me to really understand the market. So he sent me out into the field to see how tires were made, visit a retread plant, talk with dealers one-on-one. (Those of you in management positions take note: This is a great idea for newbies.) These field trips gave me a foundation to build on.

It's now hard to believe, but the first tire plant I ever visited was a huge brick, multi-story General Tire plant in Akron! They were still making tires there (although no longer). Now when I get the chance to see the ultra-modern tire plants of today, I can really appreciate the advancements the industry has made.

I've met so many wonderful people over the years. Dealers who have been so kind to take time away from their pressing business issues to talk with me about their dealerships. Association leaders and staff members who have helped me with data. Executives at tire companies who answered my many questions. Public relations people who helped set up interviews.

I've seen the consolidation of tire companies, the increasingly global nature of the industry, the advent of TPMS, the decrease of passenger tire retreading, and so much more. 

I just want to take this chance, at the end of this 30th anniversary year, to say thank you to all the friends I've made over the years. I look forward to the new year, and wish all of you a happy, prosperous and healthy 2010.

Related Topics: Globalization