EDMONTON — Fountain Tire Ltd. has named Jaecen Aspa, owner of the Terrace, British Colombia, Fountain Tire outlet, the Most Valuable Player during the annual Fountain Tire Owners' Convention, which was held virtually.
According to Fountain Tire, Mr. Aspa is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm, which is credited for helping him grow the already successful local business by 28% over the past year and expand services in nearby communities of Kitimat and Prince Rupert.
Fountain Tire credits Mr. Aspa's problem-solving and calm demeanor as secrets to his success in building relationships with associates, partners and commercial, fleet and retail customers.
"Jaecen is a shining example of Fountain Tire's core purpose, helping people get there safely, sustainably and successfully," Dave Deley, senior vice president, stores at Fountain Tire, said.
"In the face of the adversity COVID created in our communities, Jaecen continued to safely deliver the exceptional service our customers have come to expect while not only maintaining but also growing his local business."
"We aim to do the very best we can for our clients," said Mr. Aspa, who partnered in the Terrace store in 2017. "We want our customers to trust us, to be comfortable and to feel like this is their store."
The Fountain Tire Terrace store also contributes to several other initiatives that support the community, from health charities to ski trail maintenance and playground development.
The MVP award, presented annually since 2004, is selected from owners across Fountain Tire's network of 160 locations. Nominees are graded on several business parameters, including leadership, community involvement, customer relationships and safety.
Fountain Tire's partnership model provides that store owners have 50% equity in their stores.
Other award-winners were:
- Matthew Whittaker of Lethbridge, Alberta, Most Improved Mixed;
- Bill Else of Mission, British Colombia, Most Improved Retail; and
- Devin Beck of Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Rookie of the Year.
"These top-performing store partners have exceeded our exceptionally high operational standards," Mr. Deley said. "They lead with their hearts, their heads and their hands to improve their businesses and the communities in which they live and work."