The CRC Press began not with a book, but with a rubber apron sold to chemists in 1900. Arthur Friedman, a Cleveland, Ohio native, started selling these protective garments to keep scientists safe from hazardous chemicals. By 1903, he and his brothers Leo and Emanuel formalized the Chemical Rubber Company to expand their sales of laboratory equipment. The company's pivot to publishing started in 1913 when they offered an 116-page Rubber Handbook as a free incentive for anyone buying a dozen aprons. This humble manual evolved into the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, which remains a cornerstone of scientific reference today. The brothers' vision transformed a small manufacturing business into a global publishing powerhouse by recognizing the value of specialized knowledge.
Mathematics and Tables
While the Rubber Handbook laid the foundation, the CRC Standard Mathematical Tables became the company's financial engine. This reference book has sold over 2 million copies, establishing CRC Press as a leader in mathematical literature. The tables provided essential data for engineers and scientists, making them indispensable tools in research and education. The company's reputation grew as they expanded beyond chemistry to include mathematics, engineering, and physics. This diversification allowed CRC Press to serve a broader audience of technical professionals. The success of these handbooks demonstrated the power of combining practical utility with academic rigor.From Manufacturing to Publishing
The year 1964 marked a turning point when Chemical Rubber decided to focus exclusively on its publishing ventures. By 1973, the company officially changed its name to CRC Press, Inc and exited the manufacturing business entirely. The manufacturing line was spun off as the Lab Apparatus Company, allowing CRC Press to concentrate on its core strength. This strategic shift enabled the company to invest more resources into developing high-quality technical books. The transition from a rubber goods manufacturer to a premier academic publisher showcased the adaptability of the Friedman family's enterprise. The decision to abandon manufacturing paved the way for future growth and innovation in the publishing industry.Ownership and Expansion
In 1986, the Times Mirror Company acquired CRC Press, bringing it under the umbrella of a major media conglomerate. The Times Mirror began exploring the possibility of selling CRC Press in 1996, and in December of that year, they announced the sale to Information Ventures. This change in ownership marked a new chapter for the company, as it prepared to enter the global market. In 2003, CRC became part of Taylor & Francis, a subsidiary of the UK publisher Informa. The acquisition by Taylor & Francis integrated CRC Press into a larger network of academic publishers, enhancing its reach and influence. The transition from a family-owned business to a global entity reflected the evolving landscape of academic publishing.Integration and Branding
As of 2025, the branding of CRC Press presents it as part of the Routledge branding, signaling a new era of consolidation. The CRC Press and Routledge imprints are key components of Taylor & Francis's academic publishing, working together to serve diverse academic communities. This integration has allowed CRC Press to leverage the strengths of both imprints, offering a wider range of titles to its audience. The decision to merge branding reflects the changing needs of the academic market and the importance of streamlined operations. The CRC Press continues to publish technical books on engineering, science, mathematics, business, forensics, and information technology, maintaining its legacy of excellence.