Published: 7/1/2025

Akron, Ohio – July 1, 2025 - Smithers, a leading provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services, announces that the proving ground at Treadwell Research Park in Pearsall, Texas, has earned 17025 accreditation. 

Smithers operates the proving ground on behalf of Discount Tire. The scope of accreditation for the site includes wet grip testing and tire buffing. Preparations to add other test methods such as rolling resistance and pass-by-noise to the accreditation are underway. 

“The tire industry is currently focused on a variety of sustainability initiatives, such as reducing the rate of tread wear to extend the life of the tire,” said Sean Connolly, Director of Test Track Operations at Smithers Winter Test Center/Pearsall Test Track. “Understanding tire performance at varying levels of tread wear is critical for tire manufacturers looking to get the most out of their designs.” 

Additional on-site testing capabilities include a wide range of paved and off-road test surfaces for validating tire performance. The site is also in compliance with UNECE Regulation No 117 Wet Grip and Pass-by Noise.  

“We’re incredibly proud that our existing processes and procedures meet the rigorous requirements of ISO 17025 accreditation,” said Jim Popio, PhD, Vice President, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division, North America. “Accurate data, on time, is central of the Smithers promise on a global scale, and we strive to go above and beyond our clients’ expectations with exceptional service as well.” 

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About Smithers 
Founded in 1925 and headquartered in Akron, Ohio, Smithers is a multinational provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services. With laboratories and operations in North America, Europe, and Asia, Smithers supports customers in the transportation, life science, packaging, materials, components, consumer, cannabis, dry commodities, and energy industries. Smithers delivers accurate data, on time, with high touch, by integrating science, technology, and business expertise, so customers can innovate with confidence. 
 

About Discount Tire 
Discount Tire is a leading independent retailer of tires, wheels, and windshield wipers. Founded in 1960 by Bruce T. Halle, the company serves customers at more than 1,200 stores in 39 states. The company does business as Discount Tire in most of the U.S. and as America's Tire in parts of California and Pennsylvania. Treadwell, Discount Tire's proprietary online tire-buying guide, uses decades of data and individual driving habits to recommend the right tires for each driver's unique needs. For more information, visit www.discounttire.com.