FASTSIGNS International Inc.

Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Recognized for Its Commitment to Helping Veterans Become Franchisees.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been named a top franchise opportunity for veterans by Entrepreneur magazine on its 2020 Top Franchises for Veterans ranking. FASTSIGNS ranked #6 –the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise in the top 30 franchise opportunities.

Entrepreneur‘s Top Franchises for Veterans ranking highlights the top 150 franchises offering incentives and other programs to help veterans become franchisees. FASTSIGNS participates in the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) VetFran program that provides military veterans with special incentives and assistance to open a franchise. FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for veterans, which includes a 50 percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875. FASTSIGNS is the only franchise in its industry to offer a 50-percent discount to any veteran, without stipulations.

“We take great pride in the programs we’ve developed at FASTSIGNS, which are designed to support and guide veterans as they transition back into civilian life or look to open a business of their own. Currently, over 12 percent of franchisees in the FASTSIGNS system are military veterans, and that number continues to grow each year,” said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to the veteran community, as well as the unlimited potential for success that partnering with FASTSIGNS can bring.”

Darrin Lawrence, who recently opened his first FASTSIGNS center in Richardson, Texas, is a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard and Army Reserve. With 22 years in the military, he offers leadership, a mission-focused work ethic and the strong ability to follow detailed instructions.

“Having an Army background, I appreciate a structured environment and proven processes that lead to success. Over the years, FASTSIGNS’ turnkey business model has given many veterans, including myself, the opportunity to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves,” said Lawrence. “Since signing my franchise agreement in April 2019, FASTSIGNS has supported me every step of the way, providing me with unparalleled resources and an impressive franchisee network that I can tap into and utilize at any time. I’m proud to be a part of the FASTSIGNS system and am grateful for the tools they’ve equipped me with as a small business owner.”

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked one of the top franchise opportunities for veterans. Last year, FASTSIGNS was recognized by Franchise Business Review in its 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report. Franchise Business Review surveyed over 26,000 franchisees to compile the list of 80 top-rated franchises.

In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Entrepreneur also named FASTSIGNS a Top Growth Franchise for 2020. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list, and Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS one of its Top Franchises for Second Careers. In 2019, FASTSIGNS was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review has also recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years as well as its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International Inc. will be celebrating Sign Manufacturing Day virtually during an unprecedented year. In partnership with the National Association of Manufacturers’ Manufacturing Day, the International Sign Association promotes Sign Manufacturing Day every first Friday of October.

To honor the day, FASTSIGNS International will be streaming and sharing videos of a tour from the FASTSIGNS International office on October 2 with subsequent videos to be posted throughout the entire month of October to encourage excitement and interest in the future of the sign industry.

In addition, FASTSIGNS franchisees across the US and Canada have been encouraged to share and post videos on October 2 that exhibit their centers and share with students and the community the vast capabilities at FASTSIGNS. During the recent year, the need for signs and graphics has proven to be increasingly relevant. Whether through retail businesses, restaurants or hospitality companies, the need to inform, direct and sell has established sign manufacturers as an essential business within their communities.

“We are thrilled to once again celebrate Sign Manufacturing Day. As we’ve experienced this year, the signage industry is an essential player in a world focused on keeping communities safe, healthy and informed,” said Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. and Chair of the International Franchising Association. “We look forward to using this day to ignite a spark in the next generation of sign manufacturers by sharing the vast opportunities that are available to them with a career in this industry.”

For more information on Sign Manufacturing day, visit the link here, follow FASTSIGNS brand social channels or search Manufacturing Day hashtag #MFGDay20.

FASTSIGNS Offers Entrepreneurs Opportunity to Partner with Leading Sign, Graphics, and Visual Communications Franchisor with Proven Business Model and Unparalleled Training and Support. 

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, is recruiting existing business owners looking to grow through its cobrand and conversion program. The franchise offering allows entrepreneurs to add a FASTSIGNS to their business or fully convert their store to a FASTSIGNS center to take advantage of FASTSIGNS’ established brand recognition, state-of-the-art products, unmatched training and support, and status as the No. 1 franchise opportunity in the sign and graphics industry.

Earlier this year, FASTSIGNS centers nationwide were deemed essential as COVID-19 forced thousands of businesses across the country to temporarily close, allowing FASTSIGNS franchisees to pivot their services to best serve their customers and local communities.

“Small business owners have been navigating through the unknown during the pandemic, with many businesses struggling and others shutting their doors forever. But FASTSIGNS franchisees have fared extremely well with the backing of our strong support center, allowing them to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves during these unprecedented times,” said Mark Jameson, EVP of Franchise Support and Development, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “At FASTSIGNS, we stay on the cutting edge of technology and trends, so our franchisees don’t have to, and, throughout the COVID-19 outbreak, our constant stream of knowledge and resources amplified their ability to focus on what matters most — their customers. With a recognized brand name, advanced technology, a global supply chain network and an international system of franchisees, we’re proud to assist existing businesses as they look to diversify their product offerings and services to weather this storm.”

FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more add a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully convert their center to a FASTSIGNS franchise. In 2019 alone, cobrand and conversion centers opened in markets including Brooklyn, New York; Windsor, California; and Findlay, Ohio among others. FASTSIGNS franchisees receive ongoing training and support to stay ahead of the competition and exceed the needs of their local business community. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee and lower royalties during the first 12 months.

“After establishing a thriving business within my local community over the past two decades, I was looking for a new way to expand and take my signage and awnings shop to the next level,” said Nikki Taheri, who converted her existing business to a FASTSIGNS center in Bayonne, New Jersey, with her husband, Brendan Duane. “FASTSIGNS has proven to be an invaluable partner as they’ve provided us with a deeper connection to the signage industry. Beyond the national brand name recognition, FASTSIGNS gives us access to new resources, immeasurable support and vendor relationships, which allow our business to provide additional services to our customers.”

FASTSIGNS is known in the industry for equipping its franchisees with tools vital to securing the ongoing success of each individual location. In addition to the brand’s online FASTSIGNS University, FASTSIGNS partners with 1HUDDLE, a workforce-training platform that converts unique training content into science-backed, quick-burst training games that are proven to accelerate workforce productivity.

FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Entrepreneur also named FASTSIGNS a Top Growth Franchise for 2020. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list, and Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS one of its Top Franchises for Second Careers. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans, and the brand was also recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review has also recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years as well as its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019.

Recognized for Its Strong Growth over the Last Three Years, FASTSIGNS Is the Only Sign, Graphics, and Print Franchisor Named to This Year’s List

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, has been named to Entrepreneur magazine’s first Top Growth Franchises list — the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise recognized — which ranked the top 150 franchises with the most consistent growth in the U.S. and Canada over the last three years.

FASTSIGNS has grown aggressively throughout the U.S. and Canada, signing dozens of franchise agreements in major markets including New York City, Chicago, Phoenix, Seattle, and the Toronto area.

“We are thrilled to be the only franchise in the sign, graphics, and print industry named a Top Growth Franchise. This recognition is a testament to the strength of the FASTSIGNS business opportunity and our position as the leader in our segment,” said Mark Jameson, EVP of Franchise Support and Development, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “Franchisees see immediate value in joining FASTSIGNS, whether they open a new center or decide to convert or co-brand their existing business.”

FASTSIGNS has continued to grow nationwide as an essential business amid the COVID-19 pandemic, opening 17 new locations and signing 13 franchise agreements since March 1.

“As a first-time franchisee, it was important for me to invest in a brand that provided guidance to help me succeed, while allowing me to be in business for myself — and FASTSIGNS provided just that,” said Steve Brown, a FASTSIGNS franchisee in Newport Beach, California, who opened his center in April 2020. “I was just weeks away from opening my first location when the pandemic hit, and FASTSIGNS proved to be an invaluable partner during that time. I moved forward with opening my center amid the pandemic, having faith in one of the largest sign franchises. The support shown during these unprecedented times helped me get my FASTSIGNS center up and running.”

FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50-percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans and the brand was also recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review also has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019.

FASTSIGNS Engages Over 475 Sales Professionals Across Five Countries.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world’s leading sign and visual graphics franchisor with more than 735 FASTSIGNS^Ⓡ locations in nine countries worldwide, hosted its tenth annual Outside Sales Summit August 10-15 in an inaugural virtual setting. There were over 475 people from five countries in attendance.

With a Rev Up Sales theme, the 2020 Outside Sales Summit celebrated the FASTSIGNS network’s sales achievements between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. At the virtual awards event on Friday, a record 183 Outside Sales Professionals were recognized, including 17 who received the prestigious Platinum Award for achieving over $1 million in individual sales during the 12-month period. Additionally, 18 individuals became Certified FASTSIGNS Sales Executives after completing an extensive certification program during the same period.

2020 also marked the second year for presenting the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award. 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. Sam Leopard from FASTSIGNS® of Fort Worth – Alliance was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award.

“Due to the pandemic, we hosted our annual Outside Sales Summit in a completely virtual setting. This energy-packed event allowed us to provide the over 475 attendees with education and tools to continue honing their selling skills, as well as to recognize and celebrate the incredible work and achievements of the FASTSIGNS Outside Sales Professionals from locations around the world,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. and Chair of the International Franchising Association.

Featured speakers included John Boyens, Sales Productivity Expert, Business Strategist and Co-Founder/President of Boyens Group® and Jeb Blount, prospecting guru, President and Founder of Sales Gravy, Inc. and author of the relevant new book, “Virtual Selling.” Additional speakers from the FASTSIGNS International team covered a variety of topics including Industry Disruptors and Interior Decor Trends, Engaging Customers, How to Identify Key Markets, Marketing Tools and more.

23 vendors participated at this year’s Outside Sales Summit Event, including five Diamond Sponsors. The Awards Event on Friday was sponsored by Click2Sell, and FASTSIGNS hosted 11 Vendor Training Workshops from Click2Sell, Fellers, Epson, Grimco, Avery Dennison, HEXIS, Clarus, ChromeSignage, Logo Mats, Showdown Displays and Stouse. There were also 13 Commercial Sponsorships including Gemini, GSG, Integrity Sign Solutions, Glantz, Ricoh, 3M, Window Film Depot, Kapco, JDS Sign Supply, Discount Labels, 1Huddle, CareerPlug and Ricoh.

Leading Sign, Graphics, and Visual Communications Franchisor Opened 16 New Locations and Signed a Dozen Franchise Agreements Since March 1.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, today announced strong growth year-to-date in 2020 including the signing of 16 new franchise agreements, 12 of which the brand signed since March 1, to develop locations in new markets like Aurora, Illinois, Panama City, Florida and the Toronto area. FASTSIGNS also celebrated the opening of 20 new centers this year with 16 new centers opened since March 1.

Much of FASTSIGNS’ growth this year is due to its centers nationwide being deemed essential as COVID-19 forced thousands of businesses across the country to temporarily close earlier this year, allowing franchisees to pivot their services to best serve their customers and local communities.

“At FASTSIGNS, our franchisees’ success comes first. When the pandemic began to impact our industry, we fought to ensure FASTSIGNS centers across the U.S. could continue to operate, and we’ve continued to be by their side to help them every step of the way,” said Mark Jameson, EVP of Franchise Support and Development, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We’re incredibly proud of how our franchisees adapted to the changing climate by tapping into the diverse product range we offer so they could fulfill the unique needs of their customers. Throughout the pandemic, our franchisees have continued to manufacture critical signage, plexiglass shields, and more to help hospitals, local governments, and businesses communicate important health and safety information and to protect communities. Their role of being the go-to resource for visual communications in their communities continues to grow stronger every day. The growth and momentum we’ve experienced is a true testament to the strong FASTSIGNS network, our brand’s ability to adapt systemwide, and the rising demand for signage.”

Kevin Leamon signed a franchise agreement with FASTSIGNS in March 2020, and in July celebrated the grand opening of his center in Springfield, Illinois.

“Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky to have had my new business up and running in just four months during such a challenging period,” said Leamon. “As a first-time franchisee, the support and guidance that FASTSIGNS offered as I navigated this new endeavor helped the entire process run smoothly. Along the way, I had the opportunity to tap into the impressive network of existing franchisees to discuss how they were adapting throughout the pandemic, and learned so many invaluable tools that I could incorporate into my center. It was motivating to hear how FASTSIGNS centers could quickly pivot to meet the needs of current events and further position themselves as the expert in the sign industry. I’m thrilled to be part of this dynamic brand.”

FASTSIGNS is known in the industry for equipping its franchisees with tools vital to securing the ongoing success of each individual location. In addition to the brand’s online FASTSIGNS University, FASTSIGNS partners with 1HUDDLE, a workforce-training platform that converts unique training content into science-backed, quick-burst training games that are proven to accelerate workforce productivity.

“As a first-time franchisee, it was important for me to invest in a brand that provided guidance to help me succeed, while allowing me to be in business for myself — and FASTSIGNS provided just that,” said Steve Brown, FASTSIGNS franchisee of Newport Beach, California, who opened his center in April 2020 in the midst of the pandemic. “I was just weeks away from opening my first location when the pandemic hit, and FASTSIGNS proved to be an invaluable partner during that time. I moved forward with opening my center amid the pandemic, having faith in one of the largest sign franchises. The support shown during these unprecedented times helped me get my FASTSIGNS center up and running.”

FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50-percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans and the brand also was recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to the America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review also has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019.

Award-winning Franchisor Recognized by Canadian Franchisees for Outstanding Support and Training. 

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been recognized by the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) as a gold recipient of the Awards of Excellence in Franchising in the category of Traditional Franchises, and also was honored with the 2020 Franchisees’ Choice Designation. FASTSIGNS has been recognized by the CFA for the eighth consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee support and training.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by Canadian Franchise Association and our incredible franchisees for this esteemed honor once again,” said Mark Jameson, EVP of Franchise Support and Development, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We’ve had a presence in Canada for more than two decades, and we attribute our growth and positive brand recognition across the country to our dedicated franchisees. While they continue to fulfill the visual communications needs in their communities, we’re committed to providing them will all of the tools and resources needed for them to succeed. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our FASTSIGNS family, and we look forward to supporting their endeavors and business goals for years to come.”

The annual CFA Awards of Excellence in Franchising are awarded to franchisors that continue to demonstrate their dedication to superior franchisee leadership, strong franchisee relations, support, training, marketing and more. To determine the winners, franchisees had been asked to assess their franchisor.

“I’ve been with FASTSIGNS for nearly fifteen years, and the support I’ve received from the franchisor, in many aspects of my business, is fantastic. From strategic direction to marketing, along with vendor relations, technology and more, the tools and resources provided have continuously contributed to my center’s ongoing growth,” said Craig Gibbs, who opened a FASTSIGNS center in Scarborough, Ontario in 2007. “I am very satisfied with FASTSIGNS and am a proud advocate. I look forward to our combined efforts as we strive to grow the successful organization.”

FASTSIGNS currently has more than 35 centers throughout Canada, with additional centers slated to open in North Burnaby BC and Ontario in the coming months. The brand projects opening up to five new centers each year over the next several years and is actively seeking prospective franchisees throughout the country, including a Master Franchisee to develop in Quebec.

FASTSIGNS is known in the industry for equipping its franchisees with tools vital to securing the ongoing success of each individual location. FASTSIGNS partners with 1HUDDLE, a workforce-training platform that converts unique training content into science-backed, quick-burst training games that are proven to accelerate workforce productivity. Additionally, FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50-percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans and the brand also was recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to the America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review also has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019. The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support.

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of 2020 Top Franchises. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or 214-346-5679).

About the Canadian Franchise Association
The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) helps everyday Canadians realize the dream of building their own business. CFA advocates on issues that impact this dream on behalf of more than 700 corporate members and over 40,000 franchisees from many of Canada’s best-known and emerging franchise brands. Beyond its role as the voice of the franchise industry, CFA strengthens and develops franchising by delivering best-practice education and creating rewarding connections between Canadians and the opportunities in franchising. Canadian franchises contribute over $100 billion per year to the Canadian economy and create jobs for more than 1.9 million people. Learn more at www.cfa.ca or www.FranchiseCanada.online.

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

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, was recently named a top franchise by Franchise Business Review in its 2020 report on the Best Franchises for Second Careers.

Franchise Business Review, a franchise market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only rankings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises in its annual Guide to Today’s Top Franchises, as well as in quarterly reports throughout the year that rank the top franchises in specific sectors.

FASTSIGNS was among 307 franchise brands, representing over 11,000 franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research on the best franchises for a second career. 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.

“FASTSIGNS provides franchisees with world-class support from day one, so whether you’re a military veteran, first responder, teacher, or experienced sales and marketing executive looking to leverage our brand recognition and industry leadership, FASTSIGNS is an excellent opportunity for a second career,” said Mark Jameson, EVP of Franchise Support and Development, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “Our franchisees have the ability to create their own schedule, therefore we pride ourselves on equipping entrepreneurs with the option to enjoy their nights and weekends. When you join FASTSIGNS, you are joining the No. 1-ranked franchise opportunity in the sign, graphics, and visual communications industry — and a brand committed to the satisfaction and success of its franchisees.”

“The franchise industry provides many options for people looking for a new challenge or an additional stream of income through business ownership,” said Eric Stites, CEO of Franchise Business Review. “Franchising can pave the way to a second career that offers autonomy, flexibility, and desirable income, but before making the leap, it’s important to do your research and examine feedback from other franchise owners on how well the franchise meets their expectations. The brands named in our 2020 report represent the best of the best franchise opportunities based on feedback from senior professionals and pre-retirees who have chosen franchise ownership as the next step in their career.”

FASTSIGNS is continuing to recruit qualified franchisees to open new, co-brand, and conversion centers across the U.S. in markets like Michigan, Southern California, Florida, New York City, Boston, and throughout the Northeast Corridor. FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more add a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully convert their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. FASTSIGNS franchisees receive ongoing training and support to stay ahead of the competition and exceed the needs of their local business community. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list. In 2019, Entrepreneur named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans and the brand also was recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report, was named to the America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review also has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019. The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support.

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of 2020 Top Franchises. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or 214-346-5679).

About Franchise Business Review
Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,100 leading franchise companies. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/publications/. To learn more about FBR’s research, please visit www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com

Chattanooga Franchisees Receive Highest Honor in the FASTSIGNS System.

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Cindy and Phil Bacon, franchisees at FASTSIGNS® of Chattanooga received national recognition as the recipients of The FASTSIGNS® Award at the 2020 FASTSIGNS International Convention held in Phoenix, Arizona.

This award is the most prestigious recognition in the franchise network of over 725 locations in nine countries worldwide. It is presented to the franchisees who best represent the FASTSIGNS brand in their community and in the network, as they provide exceptional customer service, mentorship, company culture and employee development.

“We are honored to be named the recipients of the FASTSIGNS Award, because we know the high level of franchisees who have won this,” said Phil Bacon. “We are so thankful to be a part of such a supportive network like FASTSIGNS and see the growth that comes from investing in an incredible brand like FASTSIGNS.”

Hailing from their home tucked in the hills of Tennessee, Phil Bacon, a native Tennessean, along with his wife, Cindy, opened their Chattanooga-based FASTSIGNS center in mid-July 1990. The Bacons have replicated the FASTSIGNS model and have risen through the network ranks, establishing a name for themselves among their peers. Notably, this was not their first opportunity to rise to the top of a franchise network.

Prior to FASTSIGNS, Phil and CIndy joined a family business with Phil’s entrepreneurial parents, helping them manage two diet franchise locations.  Phil and Cindy managed and grew the two locations to number one and two in the nation during the years of 1987, 1988 and 1989 as they supported customers in achieving their weight loss goals.

“Phil’s parents taught us so much about business,” said Cindy Bacon, franchisee at FASTSIGNS of Chattanooga.  “Much of how we manage our own business today came from watching and listening to them, because they were awesome business franchise owners.”

Today, the Bacons have grown their highly successful FASTSIGNS center and now have over 25 loyal team members. They attend every FASTSIGNS event, often bringing their team members with them. The Bacons have created a culture of mutual respect at FASTSIGNS of Chattanooga. With many tenured team members, the Bacons show that they value each and every person on both a professional and personal level. Their authenticity and genuine concern for their team has been witnessed many times over. For example, when one team member could not afford needed medical treatment, they paid for it on their own.

Even at their high level of performance, the two remain actively engaged in their business and with the corporate team, placing strong value on the support they receive, reaching out on a daily basis for questions, advice and insight.

These savvy entrepreneurs go a step beyond by giving back into the network they have joined. They continually support other FASTSIGNS franchisees, providing countless hours of mentorship, and helping visiting franchisees feel instantly welcome as they take the time to answer each and every question that might arise.

In addition to the highest recognition, FASTSIGNS of Chattanooga received a Sales Achievement Award for Highest Volume Center, ranking No. 1 in the FASTSIGNS network out of more than 700 locations worldwide. They also received a CEO Circle Award, which recognizes the top 25 centers with the highest sales volume in the U.S. and Canada between Oct. 1, 2018 and Sept. 30, 2019.

“The Bacons are 100 percent committed to FASTSIGNS and excel in solving visual communication challenges daily,” said Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “They are incredibly driven business owners. Because of that, they deserve the ultimate in recognition. They represent the brand with passion, excellence and enthusiasm, totally committed to helping other franchisees do the same.”