Babcox Media was borne out of the rubber and tire manufacturing boom of the early 1900s. The company was founded by Edward S. Babcox in Akron, Ohio, a city that became known as the “Rubber Capital of the World.”

Babcox Media made its start with India Rubber & Tire magazine, which first went into circulation in 1901. Today, the magazine, which is still in circulation, is called Tire Review.

Under the leadership of Edward Babcox, Tom Babcox and now Bill Babcox, the company has launched magazines for nearly every niche segment of the automotive aftermarket and the truck fleet market. Today, Babcox produces 14 print magazines, e-newsletters and other digital publications, in addition to offering custom publishing services, market research and list rental services.

Publication Timeline

India Rubber & Tire – founded in 1901
Brake & Front End – founded in  1931
Engine Builder (formerly Automotive Rebuilder) – founded in 1964
ImportCar – founded in 1979
BodyShop Business – founded in 1982
Counterman – founded in 1983
Underhood Service – founded in 1995
aftermarketNews.com – founded in 1999
TechShop – founded in 2000
Tomorrow’s Technician – founded in 2002
Servicio Automotriz – founded in 2004
autocarepronews.com – founded in 2005
Fleet Equipment – acquired in 2005
Transport Technology Today – acquired in 2005
Motorcycle Product News – acquired in 2010
Shop Owner – founded in 2010