Ariz. Big O franchisee earns IFA award

WASHINGTON (Nov. 10, 2015) —  The International Franchise Association (IFA) has honored Big O Tires franchisee Tony Williams of Phoenix as Big O's franchisee of the year.

Mr. Williams, a Big O Tires L.L.C. franchisee since 2006 with seven stores in Arizona, was recognized at the IFA awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., Sept. 29 for his willingness to go above and beyond for both his customers and his team, according to Big O Tires' franchisor TBC Corp.

From making sure his team performs quality work in a timely manner while confirming all customers are comfortable in the store environment, to giving back to the local community and his team members that give so much to him, Mr. Williams understands the importance of exceeding customer expectations and valuing associates, TBC said.

“The strength of the U.S. economy significantly relies on the hard work of franchisees,” said Robert Cresanti, vice president of government relations and public policy for the IFA. The organization singled out Mr. Williams for his “work in the promotion of franchising as well as for his daily contributions that not only showcase how local business owners propel the economy, but also foster community ties throughout the U.S.”

Mr. Williams bought his first Big O Tires location in South Phoenix in 2006 — a corporate location that had never opened — and has since expanded to seven locations in the Phoenix area through additional purchases and new store openings, TBC said. Prior to opening his first Big O store, he worked in the Bridgestone retail store network for 10 years.

“The secret to my success is that I love the Big O Tires franchise,” Mr. Williams said. “I love the system and level of support that Big O offers. Fellow franchisees and the Big O Tires Operations Team make it really easy for me to enjoy what I do while experiencing success.”

Kevin Kormondy, executive vice president and COO for Big O Tires, lauded Mr. Williams for “all of the work he does throughout the year in his local community and for our Big O customers.”

Big O said Mr. Williams' stores — among 53 Big O locations on Arizona — are at the top of the Big O network for sales performance and overall customer satisfaction and retention.

The IFA represents franchising worldwide, with member companies in more than 90 different business format categories, individual franchisees and companies that support the industry in marketing, law and business development.