EDMONTON — Fountain Tire has named Randy Guidinger, retired owner of a Fountain Tire outlet in Leduc, Alberta,this year's Fountain Tire Most Valuable Player.
Guidinger has 35 years of "dedicated service" in Leduc, Fountain Tire said. In 2021, sales increased 28% in his store, and he received a Fountain Tire benchmark award for surpassing financial targets.
He was recognized for his career-long commitment to supporting Fountain Tire associates, the company said, as he has mentored four people on their career path to owning their own Fountain Tire locations.
The Most Valuable Player award recognizes an individual's leadership ability, particularly in his or her community.
Fountain Tire Leduc has supported local initiatives for several years, including Rotary Club of Nisku-Leduc's community enhancement programs, the Leduc Rodeo, the local 4-H club, the Leduc Riggers hockey team and the Leduc Curling Club.
Dave Deley, senior vice president, stores at Fountain Tire, said Guidinger exemplifies the word "unselfish."
"He lives Fountain Tire's core purpose of helping people get there safely, sustainably and successfully," Deley said. "He has proven that mentorship, partnership and exceptional customer service are a recipe for business success."
Managers own 50% of the equity in their stores under Fountain Tire's business model. The MVP award, given each year since 2004, is given to one of the owners in Fountain Tire's network of 165 locations.
Nominees are graded on several business factors, including leadership, community involvement, customer relationships and safety.
Others recognized recently include:
- Cameron Lawson at Delta Truck Centre, British Colombia, Most Improved Mixed;
- Chris Dirkson of Langley, British Columbia, Most Improved Retail; and,
- Nathan Oakley of High River, Alberta, Rookie of the Year.
The Edmonton-based dealership soon will have a new CEO.
Longtime Fountain Tire executive Jason Herle is replacing Brent Hesje as CEO of the tire dealership, effective in May. He'll become just the third CEO in the past 30 years of the 65-year-old retail, commercial and wholesale dealership.