1930's | 1940's | 1950's | 1960's
1970's | 1980's | 1990's
1930's | 1940's | 1950's | 1960's
1970's | 1980's | 1990's
With the introduction of the Model A burner in the late sixties, then the Model AF (flame retention) in the early seventies, sales increased dramatically. The company expanded its manufacturing facilities in 1973.
Just as the expansion was complete, however, war broke out in the Middle East. Immediately following were a series of dramatic world-wide dislocations in oil production and distribution.
The Arab oil embargo of October, 1973 shook the entire oil industry. Beckett experienced declining sales for the first time since the early 1960's.
Though set back temporarily by the impact of the oil embargo, Beckett was soon able to expand sales and penetrate new markets. Remarkably, some of its best years came in the mid-seventies as homeowners aggressively replaced their old burners with new highly efficient units.
With its new-found leadership role in the oil industry, the company embarked on a number of new efforts to assist with education and the promotion of oilheat. The company produced an industry-standard training manual entitled "The Professional Serviceman's Guide to Oil Heat" and a number of statement stuffers aimed at helping oil dealers communicate the benefits of oil to their customers.
The effects of a second OPEC oil shock in the late 1970's hit the U.S. economy in the early 1980's, and, because of a run up in fuel prices, cut the industry's oil burner sales in half.
Though Beckett was in a much better position to handle the crisis than many other companies, every effort had to be made to cut costs, short of laying off workers. The latter was especially significant to the local community. Unemployment in North Ridgeville during the period soared past 30%.
It was also time to seek divine wisdom. In early 1980, twenty-five Beckett employees gathered one evening after work to talk and pray together. John later recalled, "We affirmed our confidence that God was bigger than the Middle East crisis, and that we should take each day one at a time, with our trust in Him."
Beckett personnel began to address influential trade gatherings in an attempt to rally support for the industry's future. Their theme was upbeat: the dislocations in oil price and supply would settle down, and this was a time to actively market, not sit back in desperation. New equipment provided much needed fuel savings to customers and far-sighted marketers began to promote its sale.
By the end of the 1980's, the company was again strong, with growing sales and market share.
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In addition, John and the management team infused a set of core values into the company designed to reflect John's faith and establish a solid foundation for the company's future. Integrity, Excellence and Profound Respect for the Individual are at the foundation of Beckett's corporate culture. Rather than being forgotten mantras in a planning folder, these values are thoroughly communicated through the organization on a regular basis.