When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, FASTSIGNS International Inc. was quick to act. As the franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications brand, it was important to ensure FASTSIGNS centers across the U.S. could continue to operate, and the leadership team worked closely with state and local governments to have FASTSIGNS centers deemed as essential businesses. By Jessica Jones
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, FASTSIGNS International Inc. was quick to act. As the franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications brand, it was important to ensure FASTSIGNS centers across the U.S. could continue to operate, and the leadership team worked closely with state and local governments to have FASTSIGNS centers deemed as essential businesses.
And that designation has been a critical factor in FASTSIGNS’ nationwide growth over the last eight months. Franchisees quickly went to work helping hospitals, local governments, and businesses communicate important health and safety information that was vital to protecting their communities. They also produced signage that enabled restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential retailers to communicate to customers that they were open for business. Several FASTSIGNS centers also pivoted to produce things like Plexiglas shields and personal protective equipment to help meet dire shortages in their communities.
“The past several months have shown that the FASTSIGNS business model allows our franchisees to be nimble and respond quickly to whatever their communities need the most,” said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer with FASTSIGNS International Inc.
Throughout the pandemic, FASTSIGNS has continued to stand by franchisees to help them every step of the way. And, in a testament to the strength of the FASTSIGNS network, franchisees have come together to share best practices to help each other weather the storm.
“I had the opportunity to tap into the impressive network of existing franchisees to discuss how they were adapting. It was motivating to hear how FASTSIGNS centers could quickly pivot to meet the needs of their communities and further position themselves as the expert in the sign industry,” said franchisee Kevin Leamon, who opened his first FASTSIGNS center in Springfield, Illinois, in July.
FASTSIGNS franchisees’ role of being the go-to resource for visual communications grows stronger every day, Jameson said.
“The impact the pandemic has had on businesses in the U.S. is something we never could have imagined, but we are incredibly proud of the growth and momentum we’ve experienced in these unprecedented times, and strongly believe FASTSIGNS will emerge as an even stronger brand,” he said.
For information about a FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or 214-346-5679.
– Jessica Jones