Shannon and Cynthia Baber Strunk of RNR Tire Express Named IFA Franchisees of the Year

October 07, 2026 // FranchisePR.com // WASHINGTON, D.C. – The International Franchise Association (IFA) named Shannon and Cynthia Baber Strunk, owners of RNR Tire Express locations across Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee, as 2026 Franchisees of the Year. The Strunks were honored at the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., Sept. 14-16, for being an outstanding franchise owner with excellence in entrepreneurship, community outreach, workforce development, and service to others. Nominated by their brand, the IFA Franchisee of the Year awards are given to franchisees from IFA member brands across industries and communities around the country.

“Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about – individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves,” said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “Through their leadership, they create jobs and build careers, give back to their communities, and support other franchisees, all while exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising. We are proud to recognize the Strunks with IFA’s highest honor for individual franchisees and celebrate their commitment to making a difference both within their business and beyond.”

The Franchisee of the Year awards recognize leading franchise owners for their community involvement, fostering a strong workforce, assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon, and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit. Their outstanding performance and contributions help strengthen not only their business but also the entire franchise business model.

What began with a single RNR Tire Express location has grown into a multi-state, multi-generational family business, with Shannon and Cynthia now leading alongside their son, Shane Baber. “I’ve had the privilege of working alongside the Strunk & Baber family for many years and that makes this recognition especially meaningful.” said Adam Sutton, CEO of DX3 Brands and RNR Tire Express. ” Shannon, Cynthia and Shane have built something they can be incredibly proud of, not only as business owners, but as a family. They care deeply about their people, their customers and communities and doing things the right way. I’m proud to call them partners and friends and I couldn’t be happier to see them receive this well deserved recognition.”

There are approximately 832,000 franchise establishments across the U.S., providing nearly 8.8 million direct jobs and generating more than $907 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities.

The recipients were honored at a luncheon on Sept. 15, 2026, and throughout the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. in October.

SOURCE RNR Tire Express