Big O Tires LLC recognized its top performers for both business success and contributions to the growth of the franchise during its 2019 convention.
Hall of Fame Inductee
Bill Walker, a multi-store owner in Indiana and Kentucky, was inducted into Big O’s Hall of Fame this year.
Franchisee of the Year
Three received franchisee of the year honors: Mike Trammel, owner in Indiana; Greg Kimberlin, multi-store owner in Kentucky; and Rob Curry, multi-store owner in Colorado and California.
This was the third year the franchisee of the year award was presented. The top 40 stores, based on numerical results, are eligible. Candidates submit information on their community involvement and an Executive Committee considers that material, along with feedback from other franchisees to make a final decision.
Point of Light and IFA Award
Chris Monteverde was honored multiple times throughout the awards ceremony receiving both the Point of Light and IFA Awards. The Point of Light recognizes extraordinary franchisees that have contributed to the Big O organization with their knowledge, expertise, and dedication. The IFA Award, designated by the IFA every year, honors achievement and commitment across the board – both in business and community.
Standing “O” Awards
Winners of the Standing “O” award were Derek and Jared Edwards, franchisees in Sandy, Utah; Tim Washburn, franchise business consultant for Big O Tires in the Northern California – Bay Area region; and Erica Staley, senior marketing manager for Big O Tires.
The Standing “O” award recognizes franchisees and corporate associates for going above and beyond to support Big O whether it is serving on committees, helping fellow franchisees and team members or providing outstanding customer service.
The meeting included opportunities to promote education. Attendees packed packing than 800 backpacks with school supplies for the Blessings in a Backpack nonprofit organization. The backpacks will be provided to New Orleans public school students for the coming school year. The backpacks were Big O’s way to say thank you to the host city for their hospitality during the convention. In addition, $205,000 was raised from participants for the scholarship fund during the convention. This year's amount is an increase over last year when more than $120,000 was raised for the scholarship fund.
The message “Together Toward Tomorrow” was woven through all aspects of the convention from the keynote speaker through the vendor trade show, awards dinner and the breakout education sessions. Big O Tires said participants left the convention equipped with the tools to exceed goals and create a wide-reaching impact to lead their teams “Together Toward Tomorrow.”
For more coverage, read “Big O Tires Dealers Celebrate Six Straight Years of Sales Growth.”