Big O honors Calif., Idaho, Kan., Mo. dealers

PHOENIX (June 9, 2016) — Big O Tires franchisees from California, Idaho, Kansas and Missouri were honored with the franchise organization's highest honors at the TBC Corp. unit's annual convention in Phoenix earlier this year, including Bryan Edwards who was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Ed Anderson, who has owned a Big O store in Lafayette, Calif., for the past 30 years, was this year's “Point of Light Award” winner, which recognizes extraordinary franchise owners who have contributed to the Big O organization with their knowledge, expertise and dedication.

Dutch Tryon, owner of a pair of Big O stores in Kansas, was the Big O franchisee of the year. A Big O franchisee since 2005, Mr. Tryon was the Point of Light award winner in 2014.

In addition, Mick Alley, store owner in Boise, Idaho, and Rusty Coats, vice president of operations of MFA Oil — which operates 15 Big O stores in Missouri and Arkansas — received Standing “O” Awards, which recognize 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.

Big O corporate employees who received Standing O Awards were: Kristen Wagner, paralegal at parent company TBC; Troy Sturdivant, merchandising analyst at TBC; and David Lynch, franchise business consultant for the Northern California region.

Kevin Shuttic, vice president of Sharp Advertising in Phoenix, also was honored.

Big O also inducted into its Hall of Fame Bryan Edwards, who began his career at a Big O Tires store in Orem, Utah, in the 1970s and has owned a store in Redding, Calif., with his brothers Jay and Ken for the past 15 years.

Mr. Edwards has been a “valued contributor” to the Big O organization over the years, Big O said, and has participated in many national and local franchise committees along with chairing Big O's Franchise Advisory Council for the last six years.

In addition, Tom Huls of Yucca Valley, Calif., received a “Platinum Performer” award for his commitment to exceeding expectations in everything that he does, according to Big O. This award is sponsored by Tire Review magazine.

TBC execs noted during the meeting that 2015 was a positive year for Big O, with gains in the number of franchisees, stores, retail tire and service sales and customers served.