FASTSIGNS

Independent Survey Shows Female Franchise Owners Are Highly Satisfied with FASTSIGNS’ Performance

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, has been recognized by Franchise Business Review as a 2025 Top Franchise for Women. Only 100 brands were named to the annual list of award winners.

“The women who make up the FASTSIGNS network are truly remarkable,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of Propelled Brands. “It’s an honor to see them recognized, especially since this award is based on feedback from our own franchisees. At FASTSIGNS, our culture is built around inclusivity, and we are proud to recruit and empower exceptional women to pursue business ownership.”

Franchise Business Review, a research firm that conducts independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only ratings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises semi-annually in its Guide to Today’s Top Franchises, as well as industry reports throughout the year that highlight research on the top franchises in specific sectors.

FASTSIGNS was among 350 franchise brands, representing nearly 9,000 female franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research on the Top Franchises for Women. FASTSIGNS’ franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training & support, financial opportunity, and work/life balance.

“Franchising is a fantastic option for women seeking business ownership on a full or part-time basis,” said Michelle Rowan, president and COO of Franchise Business Review. “With so many franchise opportunities to choose from, it’s critical to do in-depth research to understand how satisfied current female franchise owners are with the training and support, work/life balance, financial opportunity, culture and leadership of any brand they’re considering before making an investment. When you look at the brands on this year’s list of the Top Franchises for Women, 88% of women said they enjoy being part of their franchise organizations and 3 out of 4 said they would recommend their franchise to others—powerful feedback for women considering the transition to business ownership.”

FASTSIGNS’ survey data showed the following:

• 91% of franchisees agree that they enjoy operating this business;
• 95% of franchisees are likely to recommend this franchise to others;
• 91% of franchisees agree that they respect their franchisor.

“Opening a FASTSIGNS was an easy decision for our family. After seeing how the business model could complement our existing photography business, we knew it would offer opportunities for growth and flexibility,” said Gaby Mullinax, FASTSIGNS multi-unit franchisee in Fullerton and Brea, California. “FASTSIGNS continues to give us the resources we need to keep expanding our business and work towards building a lasting family legacy.”

To view FASTSIGNS’ recognition, visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com for the full list of the 2025 Top Franchises for Women.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, presented The FASTSIGNS Possibility Award, now in its second year, at the 2025 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. This award was given to Jose Corujo, Teresa Caballero and Juan Rivera for their groundbreaking work with Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Caguas, Puerto Rico at the 2024 SME Marketing Summit.

The FASTSIGNS Puerto Rico team created a life-sized, walk-thru KFC bucket, incorporating video walls and structural trussing to support the installation. The immersive experience was enhanced with coroplast graphics and mirror vinyl, transforming the Coca-Cola Music Hall entrance into a social media sensation. This high-impact installation, completed swiftly, became the event’s highlight, captivating attendees and elevating brand visibility.

“We are thrilled to receive recognition across the entire FASTSIGNS network for our work with KFC,” said Juan Rivera, production and innovation partner at FASTSIGNS. “This project pushed our team to new creative heights, and we are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our client while sharing this achievement.”

Using a consultative sales approach, FASTSIGNS provides tailored strategies that improve customer engagement and business efficiency through visual communication. With four locations in Puerto Rico—Caguas, Carolina, Guaynabo and Las Piedras—as well as a center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the company ensures that clients receive expert guidance in selecting the right solutions for their specific needs.

“Working with the FASTSIGNS team in Puerto Rico is always a pleasure, as they prioritize listening to your business needs and delivering creative, executable ideas,” said Ana Agrelot, CMO and vice president of marketing at Encanto Restaurants/KFC Puerto Rico.”The KFC bucket is a perfect example of how they brought to life our vision of letting consumers step inside a bucket of KFC chicken. Using video within a structure, they showcased our food visuals in a way that created an engaging social media moment for both the brand and its customers—it was truly ‘finger-lickin’ good!”

The FASTSIGNS franchise model enables local business partners to introduce world-class best practices to a variety of industries and market verticals. With a global presence, FASTSIGNS remains committed to helping brands make powerful brand statements through innovative design, expert execution and impactful visual solutions to elevate businesses and engage audiences.

“One of the key advantages of being part of the FASTSIGNS franchise is access to a vast network of over 785 centers worldwide,” said Teresa Caballero, business development partner at FASTSIGNS. This provides our team with the latest tools, best practices and ongoing learning opportunities to consistently deliver top-tier solutions to our clients.”

“This award is yet another incentive for our continued expansion,” said Jose Corujo, managing partner at FASTSIGNS. “Our growing presence in the region demonstrates the strength and reliability of our brand, and we look forward to bringing even more innovative solutions to businesses across Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and beyond.”

The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise Poised for New Growth and Innovation with Howe at the Helm

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today the appointment of Jim Howe, former president of Propelled Brands’ company NerdsToGo^®, as president of FASTSIGNS, effective immediately.

“Jim is the perfect fit to lead FASTSIGNS, bringing his strategic vision and deep expertise in franchising to drive the brand’s objectives and large-scale initiatives forward,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands. “I’ve witnessed Jim’s positive impact firsthand across the Propelled Brands network for over a decade, and I’m honored to appoint him to this role.”

Howe brings more than 30 years of franchising experience to his new role, including 11 years as vice president, leading operations and franchise support at FASTSIGNS. Most recently, he served as president of NerdsToGo^®, the managed IT services brand for small businesses under the Propelled Brands^® umbrella. During his tenure, Howe demonstrated exceptional brand stewardship, leading NerdsToGo’s transformation into a Managed Service Provider (MSP), positioning him for success in his new role as FASTSIGNS president.

“It’s an incredible honor to return to FASTSIGNS as president,” said Howe. “Having been part of the brand’s journey for over a decade, I’m eager to build on its legacy of innovation and drive continued growth by empowering our franchisees and strengthening our network.”

As president of FASTSIGNS, Howe will be responsible for increasing franchisee profitability through effective leadership, innovation, new revenue streams, and operational efficiencies, as well as driving growth in the number of franchise locations. He will focus on franchisee/franchisor collaboration, sharing best practices, optimizing processes, increasing franchisee profitability and satisfaction, as well as deepening customer relationships to bring the brand promise to life.

The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise Earns Spot Among Top 100 Franchises for 13 Years in a Row

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500® for the ninth consecutive year. Recognized for its outstanding performance in key areas such as unit growth, financial strength, stability, and brand power, the Franchise 500® ranks FASTSIGNS #100 overall for 2025. To view the full ranking,visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500.

“The consistent recognition FASTSIGNS has received over the past nine years reflects the strength and resilience of our franchise network,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “In 2024, we signed 21 franchise agreements and added 20 locations, reflecting our ongoing momentum. This accomplishment isn’t just about honoring past successes, it’s about driving our brand forward. As we continue to innovate and expand into new markets in 2025 and beyond, we remain committed to providing unparalleled opportunities for franchisees and delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

For 46 years, achieving placement on the annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500® has been a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry and is recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees. In 2024, FASTSIGNS not only earned a spot on this esteemed list but was also recognized on several other leading industry lists from Franchise Business Review, Franchise Dictionary Magazine and the Canada Franchise Association. Additionally, FASTSIGNS received the prestigious Franchise Customer Experience Certification from the Franchise Customer Experience Institute.

“When I joined FASTSIGNS, it felt like the perfect fit because the brand aligned with my background in production and design—but what really stood out was the support,” said Howard James, owner of FASTSIGNS of Washington, D.C. “I experienced FASTSIGNS’ great service firsthand at my school, and as a franchisee, I found a welcoming network that truly helps each other succeed.”

To better understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, Entrepreneur continuously evolves its ranking formula. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

“The Franchise 500 is more than a list. It’s really a collection of life-changing opportunities, featuring strong and resilient brands that future franchisees will be proud to be a part of,” says Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “This year’s honorees represent the bold ideas, operational excellence, and adaptability that make franchising a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success.”

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $248,083 – $344,624, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. As a member of VetFran, the brand offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679) or visit https://www.fastsigns.com.

Grimco and Spicers Recognized for Incredible Supplier Relationship

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry, presented the U.S. Vendor of the Year Award to Grimco and the Canadian Vendor of the Year Award to Spicers at the 2025 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year is selected by FASTSIGNS franchisees and is based on the integrity of business practices, product quality, and having a long-term commitment to the FASTSIGNS network. Since 2015, Grimco has received this recognition. This also marks the sixth year for recognizing the Canadian Vendor of the Year.

“The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year Award for the U.S. and Canada isn’t just any accolade — it’s a tribute to the supplier that exceeds expectations, delivering phenomenal service and unwavering support to our franchisees,” said Andrea Hohermuth, president of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of Grimco and Spicers as their dedication helps power our franchise network’s success.”

For the past 18 years, Grimco has been working with FASTSIGNS centers, providing quality wholesale sign supplies and screen print products, including equipment, wide-format printing and laminating products, general and electrical sign supplies, as well as fully fabricated MUTCD- and DOT-approved traffic signs.

“Grimco is truly honored and humbled to be named FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year for 2024,” shared Director of National Accounts – Franchises, Allyson Dworak. “We deeply value our partnership and take great pride in working closely with the entire FASTSIGNS network. Thank you for this incredible recognition and the opportunity to support your success. We look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared achievements.”

“Spicers is honored to be a trusted partner of the FASTSIGNS centers across Canada, providing high-quality equipment, consumables, and expert technical services,” said National Solutions Specialist at Spicers, Dave Buchanan. “With 15 local warehouses strategically located across the country, we ensure fast, reliable delivery of products designed to enhance both quality and productivity. We truly value your business, and it is incredibly rewarding for our entire team at Spicers to be recognized as the Canadian Vendor of the Year. Thank you for your continued partnership!”

Franchisor Achieves New Milestones, Issues Highest Number of Sales Achievement Awards.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world’s leading custom sign and visual solutions franchisor with more than 770 FASTSIGNS^Ⓡ centers worldwide, hosted its 14th annual Outside Sales Summit August 22-24 in Schaumburg, Ill. The event achieved record attendance with over 600 participants, including franchisees, sales professionals, corporate staff and exhibitors.

“Our 14th Outside Sales Summit in Schaumburg was an exhilarating experience for FASTSIGNS attendees. This year’s event was the highest attended for the network, and I am proud to say we issued the most sales awards given to date for individual sales excellence,” said FASTSIGNS President Andrea Hohermuth. “We also unveiled our new Value Selling System emphasizing the value we bring to our customers and the ongoing relationships we have with them.”

With the theme “Lead With Value”, the FASTSIGNS 2024 Outside Sales Summit celebrated the network’s sales achievements between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, and added two new awards: The Diamond Award for Outside Sales Professionals who achieved over $2 million in sales, and The Rising Star Award, recognizing an outstanding Outside Sales Professional, promoted from within the center in 2022 or 2023, who achieved the highest total sales in their first full 12 months as an Outside Sales Professional.

At the awards event, 307 Outside Sales Professionals were recognized, including nine individuals who received the new Diamond Sales Award for achieving over $2 million in individual sales during the 12-month period, 46 Platinum Sales Award winners for sales between $1 million to $1.9 million, 64 Gold Sales Award winners for sales between $700,000 to $999,999, 63 Silver Sales Award winners for sales between $500,000 to $699,999 and 125 Bronze Sales Award winners for sales between $300,000 to $499,999.

Shelly Wells from FASTSIGNS® of Tigard, Ore., was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award, marking the sixth year for this honor. With this award, FASTSIGNS recognizes one Outside Sales Professional who best represents the concept and the spirit of the brand, both in the business community and within the FASTSIGNS network.

Additional awards included The National Sales Achievement Award for the highest total sales, The CRM Ambassador Award for outstanding proficiency, dedication and innovative use of the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software. Ten center employees received the Circle of Excellence Award recognizing their daily commitment to the success and growth of their FASTSIGNS center. The Rookie of the Year Award was issued to an individual with the highest total sales in their first full 12 months of employment. An additional 63 individuals became Certified FASTSIGNS Sales Executives after completing an extensive certification program.

Featured speakers included FASTSIGNS President Andrea Hohermuth and Damon Dunn, a Dunkin’ brand operator and the founder and CEO of Lagunita Franchise Operations. Jay Baer, bestselling author and sales growth catalyst, also spoke at the event. Speakers also covered a variety of topics, including AI, creating proactive inside sales cultures, managing personalities for sales growth and more, along with informative roundtable discussions.

FASTSIGNS® franchisees and their employees, vendors and FASTSIGNS International, Inc. corporate staff participated in the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback “Breakfast with a Purpose” event to assemble 200 care packages for teachers and single-parent families in the Chicago area with the nonprofit Brightpoint. This giveback event was also made possible by the generous support of the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback sponsors, including Colex Finishing, Epson, Graphic Image Flooring, Grimco, iZone imaging, Kapco, Retreva, Specialty Tapes Manufacturing (STM), Plasticade and WS Display.

Some 90 vendors participated in this year’s Outside Sales Summit, including Diamond sponsors Epson, Fellers, Grimco and Signs365 as well as Gold sponsor 3M and Silver sponsors 4Over and Avery Dennison. The Opening Night Networking Party was sponsored by Retreva.

“Leading With Value is not just our theme, but our commitment to our customers, our community and our network,” said Hohermuth. “By focusing on delivering exceptional value, we ensure that our growth is sustainable and that our impact is meaningful. This summit has reinforced our dedication to these principles and has inspired us to continue pushing the boundaries of excellence.”

The leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise among just 100 brands recognized for diversity and inclusion efforts

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, has been ranked on Entrepreneur‘s 2024 Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion list. The ranking recognizes the top 100 franchise brands that are at the forefront of advancing diversity, equity and inclusion, both at the corporate level and within the ranks of their franchisees.

As an active member of both VetFran and DiversityFran, as well as through the brand’s Diversity and Inclusion committee, FASTSIGNS’ recognition underscores its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. The companies featured in the ranking were chosen editorially by Entrepreneur based on extensive research of the brands and data from the Franchise 500 list. Factors considered include incentives to help franchisees from underrepresented groups join the system, diversity among franchisees and within the leadership team, and other programs or initiatives undertaken related to DEI.

“As an industry leader and prominent brand with over 775 locations worldwide, FASTSIGNS is a shining example of how creating a diverse and inclusive network can have a tangible impact on the strength of a brand,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “This recognition underscores the strides FASTSIGNS has taken to foster an inclusive and diverse culture, including the establishment of our Diversity and Inclusion committee and ongoing support of the IFA’s diversity initiatives within franchising. As we continue to lead the charge for creating opportunities in franchising regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation, FASTSIGNS is proud to foster inclusivity across our network.”

Composed of a diverse group of FASTSIGNS franchisees selected from the brand’s global network, FASTSIGNS’ Diversity and Inclusion committee was created to foster an environment that promotes and prioritizes diversity and inclusion (D&I) within not only the FASTSIGNS system but also the broader signage and franchising industries. Since its inception in 2021, the group has raised awareness of diversity and inclusion with the executive team and among franchisees, raising D&I topics and education to prime focus at FASTSIGNS’ annual convention, discussing recruitment, retention and client relationships through a D&I perspective and more.

“While I came across an opportunity with FASTSIGNS, I did some research on the franchise and liked what I saw, including willingness to support LGBTQI+ franchisees,” shared Kevin Jones, FASTSIGNS® of Santa Rosa franchisee and member of the brand’s Diversity and Inclusion committee. “As a part of the Diversity and Inclusion committee, I have the chance to make a difference everyday in ways I did not necessarily foresee. I am proud to be part of the brand.”

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $248,083 – $344,624, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. As a member of VetFran, the brand offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679) or visit https://www.fastsigns.com.

The full ranking can be viewed in Entrepreneur’s May/June issue of the print magazine or online at https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/top-diversity-ranking.

Grimco and ND Graphics Recognized for Incredible Supplier Relationship

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry, presented the U.S. Vendor of the Year Award to Grimco and the Canadian Vendor of the Year Award to both Grimco and ND Graphics at the 2024 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Orlando, Florida.

The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year is selected by FASTSIGNS franchisees and is based on the integrity of business practices, product quality, and having a long-term commitment to the FASTSIGNS network. Since 2015, Grimco has received this recognition. This also marks the fourth year for recognizing the Canadian Vendor of the Year.

“The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year Award for the US and Canada isn’t just any accolade—it’s a tribute to the supplier that exceeds expectations, delivering phenomenal service and unwavering support to our franchisees” said Andrea Hohermuth, the President of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of Grimco and ND Graphics as their dedication helps power our franchise network’s success.”

For the past 17 years, Grimco has been working with FASTSIGNS centers, offering quality wholesale sign supply and screen print products including equipment, wide format print & laminating products, general and electrical sign supplies, to fully fabricated MUTCD & DOT approved traffic signs.

“FASTSIGNS is a phenomenal organization, and we truly enjoy being a partner to the network in the U.S., Canada, and now the UK,” said Julie McClain, Director of National Accounts at Grimco. “Being named Vendor of the Year for both the U.S. and Canada is just one of the highlights of this partnership. We aim to provide quality products at competitive prices, educate the network on industry innovations, and foster FASTSIGNS’ growth and success. We are excited to see where this partnership will go in 2024 and beyond.”

Since 2017, ND Graphics has been working with FASTSIGNS centers, supplying sign and visual graphic materials and products. This includes equipment and everything from sign supplies to digital media and electrical solutions.

“ND Graphics would like to express our gratitude for being awarded Canadian Vendor of the Year by FASTSIGNS,” said Rick Lewicki, Strategic Account Manager at ND Graphics. “As the business climate continues to change, we continue to work together to find solutions they need. Our 10 branches take pride in servicing all FASTSIGNS locations across Canada with materials, equipment, training and the service they need to get the job done! We look forward to continued success and value our relationship with the Canadian FASTSIGNS team.”

Orlando Leader Recognized for Exceptional Contributions in Visual Communications

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry, recognized Renee Friedman-Goldstein, FASTSIGNS of Orlando, Fla.– Central, with the FASTSIGNS Award, the highest honor in the FASTSIGNS network.

The FASTSIGNS Award recognizes a franchisee who best represents the culture and values of FASTSIGNS, both in the business community and within the FASTSIGNS network. The winner is honored for excellence in solving visual and marketing communications challenges, helping customers and employees achieve their objectives and reach their full potential. The recipient also defines generosity and cooperation by working with other franchisees to increase the strength, size and integrity of the network. As a brand champion, the honoree is known for doing all they can to build the value of the FASTSIGNS brand and network.

“Receiving the FASTSIGNS Award has so much significance! It is the culmination of 37 years, and I share this award with our amazing FASTSIGNS team, clients, vendors, and our family and friends,” said Renee. “I am especially thankful for my husband, Richard, whose partnership and leadership has helped make our center a success. Thank you for your hard work, support and love.”

A true success story, Renee Friedman started with FASTSIGNS in 1987, as the first customer service representative at the fourth FASTSIGNS center in the United States. After many years as the sales manager and then center manager, her dream came true when she became an owner of FASTSIGNS of Atlanta, where she later provided all the signs for the 1996 Olympic Village. After selling that center, she moved to Dallas to become the general manager for the largest multi-center group in the downtown area. In 2001, she had the opportunity to purchase and manage FASTSIGNS of Orlando, Fla. – Central.

“Renee is a veteran of the FASTSIGNS model, and her contributions to the network are invaluable,” shared Andrea Hohermuth, President of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “She is a true champion of the FASTSIGNS brand, investing in her team, center culture and processes. Renee is known as an ambassador of goodwill within her community and our network, sharing her best practices with other FASTSIGNS franchisees, and doing all she can to promote FASTSIGNS in her community.”

Renee and her team also received the CEO Circle Award, which recognizes the top 25 centers with the highest sales volume in the United States from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2023.

By following the FASTSIGNS systems, and bringing a can-do attitude and tons of energy and perseverance, Renee led her team to develop stronger customer relationships and growth.

Renee and Richard’s newly relocated center is now at 4835 E. Colonial Drive, where they have doubled their square footage and purchased adjacent property. FASTSIGNS of Orlando, Fla. – Central is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise
Receives Prestigious Recognition Following Strong Year of Development

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500® for the eighth consecutive year. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500® ranks FASTSIGNS as #73 overall for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength, stability, and brand power. To view FASTSIGNS in the full ranking, visit http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500.

“Following a strong year of development and successes for FASTSIGNS, and having now received this award eight years in a row, the recognition as the #1 franchise opportunity for signage, graphics and visual communication reaffirms the strength of our business model and the dedication of our network,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “Anticipating the continuation of our growth momentum this year, we are positioned to offer diverse franchising options as we strategically expand into new markets.”

The recognition of FASTSIGNS as the top opportunity in its category follows a successful year for the brand, capping off 2023 with 17 franchise deals signed and expanding its presence in markets including Georgia, Florida, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The impressive growth comes amid expansion of FASTSIGNS’ co-brand and conversion programs, which offer independent businesses in the sign or adjacent industries opportunities for expanded revenue streams and the support of an established network, while still maintaining their initial business.

In addition to ranking on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500, FASTSIGNS was also recognized on leading industry lists from Franchise Business Review, Franchise Times, Franchise Dictionary Magazine and Global Franchise in 2023.

“I have been a franchisee for almost 25 years, and everything I have accomplished in my life is a direct result of the FASTSIGNS network,” said Wes Snyder, FASTSIGNS multi-unit franchisee and co-recipient of the 2023 Franchisee of the Year recognition from the International Franchise Association (IFA). “Not only am I very grateful for what this network has provided me, but I also love to tell anyone who will listen that it is a wonderful organization to be part of.”

In Entrepreneur‘s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is then given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranked order.

“Every brand on the Franchise 500 has its own unique story, but they all collectively make the same statement: Franchising is strong and resilient, is full of innovation and opportunity, and provides a powerful entrepreneurial path for many people,” says Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “Our 45th annual ranking is full of companies with fresh ideas, exciting business models, cultural sway, and the kind of business sophistication that will define the next 45 years and beyond.”

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $240,080 – $310,569, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. The brand offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875. FASTSIGNS is currently seeking qualified franchisees with an emphasis on existing businesses to co-brand or convert for just $15,000 down.

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679) or visit https://www.fastsigns.com.