Les Schwab's Enduring Business Wisdom: 'Pride in Performance' Book Commands Over $400 New

A business book detailing the philosophy of tire magnate Les Schwab, titled "Les Schwab Pride in Performance: Keep It Going," has captured significant attention for its high market value, with new copies reportedly selling for over $400 and used versions often exceeding $100. The book, which is not available digitally, is considered a "crowd favorite" among those seeking insights into successful business practices, according to a recent social media post by Sahil Lavingia. Published in 1986, the autobiography outlines Schwab's unique approach to building a thriving enterprise by fostering successful employees.

The book's jacket describes it as the story of Les Schwab and his company, emphasizing his journey in the tire business and his ideas on building success through employee development. It proclaims Schwab as "the undisputed king of the tire business in the Pacific Northwest" and highlights his company's status as "the largest independent tire business in the world." The continued demand for the physical book, despite its age and cost, underscores a lasting interest in Schwab's unconventional yet highly effective management strategies.

Les Schwab Tire Centers, founded in 1952 in Prineville, Oregon, grew into one of the largest independent tire retailers in the United States under Schwab's leadership. The company's distinctive business model centered on generous profit-sharing programs, employee ownership opportunities, and a strong commitment to customer service, exemplified by staff promptly greeting customers. This employee-centric culture is widely credited for the company's sustained success and high customer satisfaction ratings.

In November 2020, the Schwab family sold the company to the San Francisco-based investment firm Meritage Group LP, ending nearly 70 years of family ownership. "The decision to sell has always been about securing the long-term success of the company," stated then-CEO Jack Cuniff. Meritage Group reportedly committed to preserving the company's culture and values, a sentiment echoed by family shareholders who expressed confidence in Meritage's ability to "build on all we have accomplished."

Today, Les Schwab Tire Centers operates over 540 locations across 15 Western U.S. states, employing more than 7,000 people and ranking among the five largest tire dealerships in the nation. The company continues to uphold the customer-focused brand and employee programs established by its founder. Recently, reports have surfaced that Meritage Group is exploring options to sell Les Schwab again, with a potential valuation of $7 billion, reflecting the continued strength and legacy of the brand Schwab built.