Fountain Tire honoured Canada’s tire industry leaders this March at the company’s annual Owners’ Convention in Toronto.

The top accolade went to Kurt Timchuk, local Owner of the Fountain Tire Winnipeg, Regent Avenue store, who was named Most Valuable Player.

Timchuk was recognized for his business success in 2022, which included a 38% increase in annual sales, exceptional expense control and consistently high-scoring safety audits. He also received a Fountain Tire benchmark award for surpassing the store’s financial targets. Throughout his 20-year career with Fountain Tire, Timchuk has demonstrated a positive attitude, willingness to contribute and a commitment to helping his associates succeed.

“Leadership in Canada’s tire industry requires keen financial and people management, exceptional customer service and commitment to the community,” says Jason Herle, Chief Executive Officer at Fountain Tire. “Kurt excels in each of these areas. He has enjoyed great success in his career yet remains one of our most humble managers.”

“It’s a great honour to be named among a group of business leaders I highly respect,” says Timchuk. “I also have to thank my associates, some of whom I’ve been working with my whole career. They’re a huge part of our store’s achievements.”

Strong team supporter

Timchuk is known among the Fountain Tire network for being a strong supporter of his team, his business network and the broader community. He has supported many associates in their apprenticeship programs and formally mentored employees through Fountain Tire’s Advancement in Management and DRIVE programs, both designed to build the skills to become successful store managers. The Fountain Tire Winnipeg, Regent Avenue store also has a long history of supporting local initiatives including Harvest Manitoba, the region’s food bank.

“Kurt lives Fountain Tire’s partnership culture, the essence of ‘we’re on this road together,'” adds Herle.

Also recognized at the Owners’ Convention were: Nathan Gringas of Calgary (Midnapore), Rookie of the Year; Victor Badillo of Vancouver (Marine Drive), Most Improved Retail; and Brad Dobransky of Peace River, Alberta, as Most Improved Mixed.