“Big O Country” theme heard by all in attendance
More than 600 Big O Tires franchise owners, managers, corporate Associates and suppliers recently gathered in San Antonio, TX for the annual Big O Tires Convention.
Throughout the convention, the message of Big O Country was integrated into all aspects of the event. Complete with franchisee owner meetings, executive presentations, keynote speakers, breakout sessions and a trade show, the convention provided yet another opportunity for franchisees to learn and share valuable ideas to bring back to their individual store teams and incorporate into everyday business operations.
Exceeding goals is a consistent practice at Big O, and 2017 was a huge success. Big O franchisees realized increased same-store total retail, service and tire unit sales; as well as increased car count. In fact, all metrics outpaced industry performance.
Big O franchisees also realized significant total sales growth in 2017 welcoming one additional store to the $5 Million Club and many others moving up to the next level of annual sales.
At the convention, the team also celebrated their growth with the addition of new locations, a key initiatve for Big O Tires. The team welcomed 60 new stores in the last year, compared to the addition of 16 new stores in 2016.
This year, the keynote speaker, Dr. Daren Martin known as ‘The Culture Architect’ delivered important messages such as leadership, sales, and customer service to the franchisees. His presentation motivated attendees to cultivate a company culture where employees show up energized every day and to empower them to act like owners.
As is customary at the annual Big O Tires convention, all attendees had the opportunity to pay tribute to the importance of educating future generations through the Big O Tires Scholarship Fund. This year, $120,000 was raised from participants at the event; yet another increase compared to last year when more than $83,500 was raised.
Not only was the importance of education recognized at the convention, but also the importance of saying “yes” to our customers. During the awards ceremony, the franchisees hard work and dedication to Big O was recognized.
The following awards represent a sampling of what was presented during the annual “Best of the Best” awards ceremony:
- Standing “O” Awards – Each year at the convention, Big O 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. This year’s winners include: Garry Fox, Franchise Business Consultant for Big O Tires’ in the New Mexico region; Tom Walker, co-owner of two stores in Indiana; Tim and Terri Holldander, owners of three stores in New Mexico; Heather Fernandez, Manager of Paid Media/SEM.
- Point Of Light Award – Doug Powers received The Point of Light Award which recognizes extraordinary franchisees that have contributed to the Big O organization with their knowledge, expertise, and dedication. Powers, a franchisee since 2006, and owner of six stores in the Kentucky market.
- Franchisee of the Year – This award was presented for only the second year and all 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. Honored were Brian and Chad Cunningham, multi-store owners in Colorado; Kent Coleman, multi-store owner in Utah; and Chris Monteverde, multi-store store owner in California.
- IFA Award – Bart and Kim Yerxa received the IFA Award which honors achievement and commitment across the board – both in business and community. The IFA honors a Big O franchisee with this designation every year.
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