WASHINGTON — Big O Tires franchisee Chris Monteverde was honored for the second time this year, winning the Big O Franchisee of the Year Award from the International Franchise Association (IFA).
Mr. Monteverde, who owns 16 Big O locations in California, was recognized on Sept. 5 by IFA for his willingness to go above and beyond for his customers, his team and his community, according to IFA.
Earlier this year, at the Big O dealer meetings in San Antonio, Big O recognized Mr. Monteverde as one of three franchisees of the year. Big O Tires is a business unit of TBC Corp.
IFA President and CEO Robert Cresanti said the group is honoring Mr. Monteverde for his "extraordinary story and success.
"Franchise businesses are an engine of economic growth across America, in large part due to the hard work of tens of thousands of franchise business owners like Chris," Mr. Cresanti said.
"As Washington looks to continue our economic growth, policymakers would do well to remember that franchising is making a difference across our country."
The IFA franchisee of the year awards were created to recognize outstanding IFA member-company franchise establishment owner-operators. The winners are determined by franchisor and presented during the association's Public Affairs Conference event held annually in Washington, D.C.
IFA said it presents awards such this to recognize individuals who have contributed to the growth and success of franchising as a method of distribution in the global economy.
Mr. Monteverde opened his first Big O store in 2004 and has expanded his business steadily since.
John Kairys, vice president and general manager of Big O Tires, said the group is fortunate to work with Mr. Monteverde and his team.
"Chris and his team are truly representative of the team you trust and, on behalf of the Big O Tires network, I would like to thank Chris for his contributions to the organization."
Mr. Monteverde lauded his team as well as the support he receives from Big O and his fellow franchisees.
"...With their help, I'm able to continue giving back to my customers, my team and my community and will continue to do so."
Big O Tires has nearly 450 franchisee-owned stores primarily located in the West and Midwest.