By securing a large tire order from Henry Ford in 1906, and aggressively promoting his tires in automobile races, Firestone was able to grow his company’s sales from $100,000 in 1901 to $15 million in 1913, joining the ranks of the “Big Five” of the tire industry. Firestone created the dismountable rim in 1907, and the balloon tire in 1923, which became the industry standard. In 1928, Firestone initiated his ambitious and successful plan to establish auto supply and service stores throughout the U.S.