LAS VEGAS — Midas franchisee Gus Herlong, the 2024 Tire Business Tire Dealer Humanitarian of the Year, has just received another accolade: The 2024 franchisee of the year from the International Franchise Association (IFA).
Herlong operates Palmetto Garage Works L.L.C., a Midas and SpeeDee franchisee based in Columbia, S.C., with 32 locations in South Carolina, northern Florida and Washington, D.C.
Last year, Herlong received the annual Tire Business award for his involvement in philanthropic activities, including helping local charities and nonprofit organizations.
During the 65th IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas on Feb. 11, Herlong was one of 116 business owners honored as top franchisees from IFA member brands across industries from communities around the country and the world.
The annual Franchisee of the Year awards recognize outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators.
"Franchisees of the Year represent the very best of franchising," IFA President and CEO Matt Haller said.
"They embody the American Dream, create economic opportunity, serve their communities and show what it means to go into business for yourself, but not by yourself. We are proud to recognize these entrepreneurs with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and we salute them for the tireless efforts to lift up all those they serve."
Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their service to their communities, fostering a strong and vibrant workforce, opening the doors for career growth and entrepreneurship and supporting their fellow franchisees, the IFA said.
There are approximately 830,000 franchised businesses across the U.S., according to the IFA.
