Canada’s tire industry leaders were recognized at the annual Fountain Tire Owners’ Convention held virtually this spring.

Jaecen Aspa, local owner of the Terrace, B.C. Fountain Tire, received the top accolade of Most Valuable Player.

Aspa, who partnered in the Terrace store in 2017, is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm.

Both of these attributes led to him grow the local business by 28 % over the past year and expand services in the nearby communities of Kitimat and Prince Rupert.

His problem-solving attitude and calm demeanour are cited as secrets to his success in building relationships with associates, partners and commercial, fleet and retail customers alike.

“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,” says Dave Deley, Senior Vice President, Stores at Fountain Tire.

“We aim to do the very best we can for our clients,” says Jaecen Aspa. “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 initiatives that support the community, from health charities to ski trail maintenance and playground development.

Fountain Tire awards

Awarded annually since 2004, the Most Valuable Player is selected from owners across Fountain Tire’s network of 160 locations.

Nominees are graded on several business success markers, including leadership, community involvement, customer relationships and safety.

Additional awards were granted to: Matthew Whittaker of Lethbridge, AB, Most Improved Mixed; Bill Else of Mission, BC, Most Improved Retail; and, Devin Beck of Swift Current, SK, Rookie of the Year.

“These top-performing store partners have exceeded our exceptionally high operational standards,” adds Deley. “They lead with their hearts, their heads and their hands to improve their businesses and the communities in which they live and work.”