Andrea Markey
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Aug 17/05) - Eleven workers at Fountain Tire found out last week they're out of a job.

As of the end of business Friday, Fountain Tire on Old Airport Road closed it doors.

After the closure decision was finalized on Thursday afternoon at the Edmonton head office, the Yellowknife location was removed from the national website and plans were made to begin the shutdown, said Nelson Tonn, director of marketing for the chain.

"The decision was made after certain benchmarks needed to maintain the franchise were not being met," he said.

While he would not comment on specifics, Tonn said this could be a combination of sales, customer service and quality.

"We don't close stores without careful consideration," he said.

Fountain Tire opened in 2000 at the old Grizzly Tire location.

At that time, Rod and Brenda Lowen owned 51 per cent, while Fountain Tire owned 49 per cent.

The Lowens declined to comment on the store closure, directing all questions to the Edmonton head office.

Two weeks work

The seven full-time and four part-time workers were given the option of staying on with pay until Aug. 26, at which time they would receive a "bonus," Tonn said.

Remaining equipment will be sold locally or moved to Alberta.

Customers who have store warranties will be taken care of, he said. "We will make arrangements to make sure everyone is satisfied," he said.

Les Rocher, who leases the building to Fountain Tire, had no comment, saying only its lease was in good standing.

Fountain Tire has more than 140 stores in Western Canada and Ontario.