Franchisee Satisfaction and Performance

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.

Independent Survey Shows FASTSIGNS Ranks Highest in Franchisee Satisfaction in the Business Service Category Within the Top 200 Franchise Brands for the Sixth Consecutive Year

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been ranked Best-in-Category in the Business Service sector on Franchise Business Review’s list of the Top Franchises for 2024. This is the 19th annual ranking of the 200 best franchise opportunities as rated by franchise business owners, and the sixth consecutive year FASTSIGNS has ranked. The list is available at https://franchisebusinessreview.com/lists/top-200-franchises/.

“Being ranked among the top franchise opportunities and as the best in our category year over year is a testament to the relentless dedication of both our corporate team and our franchisees to not only establish FASTSIGNS as the leader in our industry, but also foster a positive culture throughout our network,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “This recognition fuels our determination to attract the best franchise candidates as we continue to expand our ownership opportunities, including through our co-brand and conversion programs. As we celebrate this milestone, we look ahead to a future where FASTSIGNS continues to set the standard for excellence in the signage industry.”

Franchise Business Review, a market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction and employee engagement, provides the only rankings and awards for franchise companies based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of the top 200 franchises in its annual Guide to Today’s Top Franchises.

FASTSIGNS was among over 375 franchise brands, representing more than 35,000 franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research. FASTSIGNS’ franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including training & support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, and financial opportunity. The brand provides the highest support ratio of any sign franchise and offers diverse opportunities for prospective franchisees, including allowing independent sign shops or businesses in related industries to gain the support of the franchise through its co-brand and conversion programs.

“While researching franchises, I selected an industry leader. The visibility, products and services that FASTSIGNS offers, coupled with their support of franchise owners, was evident,” said Steph Drileck, FASTSIGNS franchise of multiple San Antonio centers. “We wanted to invest in a business opportunity as a calculated risk, and we were confident that the FASTSIGNS business model, combined with our dedication and hard work, would pay off – and it has!”

FASTSIGNS’ survey data showed the following:

92% of franchisees “strongly agree” or “agree” to respecting the franchisor.

95% of franchisees are likely to recommend FASTSIGNS to others.

95% of franchisees rate their local market competitiveness above average, +20% higher than the industry benchmark.

“Franchisee satisfaction continues to be the leading indicator of franchise performance and system health, and we are pleased to report that our latest research shows satisfaction has remained at some of the highest levels in the past 19 years. In fact, our survey results show that three out of four franchise owners would recommend their brand to others. That’s extremely encouraging news for franchise owners and anyone considering investing in a franchise,” said Michelle Rowan, president and COO of Franchise Business Review. “As an independent research firm, Franchise Business Review is committed to helping prospective franchisees get an objective view of the best franchise opportunities available based on actual feedback from the people who own them. Each of the award winners on this year’s list of the 200 Top Franchises received stellar ratings from their franchisees in the areas crucial to success in operating a franchise, including training & support, leadership, innovation, culture, and financial opportunity.”

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.

For more information about FASTSIGNS®, visit https://www.fastsigns.com.

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full description of the 2024 Top Franchises.

Leading Sign and Graphics Organization Named to Prestigious Rankings of Top Franchises for Veterans, Most Profitable Franchises and Most Innovative Franchises

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, was named by Franchise Business Review in its 2023 report as a Top Franchise for Veterans, among the Most Profitable Franchises and one of the Most Innovative Franchises. Adding to the brand’s growing list of accolades, FASTSIGNS also earned recognition from Franchise Business Review as Best in the Business Services Category, a Top Franchise for Women and a Top Recession-Proof Franchise earlier this year.

Franchise Business Review (FBR) provides the only rankings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review analyzed data gathered in surveys from nearly 38,000 franchise owners representing 385 brands regarding their brand’s innovation and creativity as well as their trust in the franchisor, overall satisfaction with the brand and likelihood to recommend it to others.

FASTSIGNS’ recognition on these lists is a testament to the brand’s extensive network and resources to foster franchisee success, such as robust co-brand and conversion programs that allow existing businesses to expand their revenue streams and gain access to the support of FASTSIGNS’ network, as well as significant incentives for veterans and first responders. Through expansion of such programs and ongoing strategic development, FASTSIGNS is committed to furthering its innovation and profitability and providing opportunities for veterans.

“When it was time to renew our franchise agreement with FASTSIGNS, we didn’t hesitate. The brand recognition, franchise support and collective strength of the franchisee network made the decision a no-brainer,” said Mike Godby, franchisee at FASTSIGNS of Casselberry/Winter Park, Florida. “What I value most about owning a FASTSIGNS is helping other businesses and creating a positive environment for our employees. Our top points of pride are our customer satisfaction and employee retention.”

FASTSIGNS franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including training & support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations and financial opportunity.

FASTSIGNS’ survey data showed the following:

• 92% of franchisees “strongly agree” or “agree” to respecting the franchisor
• 95% of franchisees are likely to recommend FASTSIGNS to others
• 95% of franchisees rate their local market competitiveness above average, 20% higher than the industry benchmark

“FASTSIGNS has seen tremendous growth this year, and these recognitions from Franchise Business Review underscore the strength of our brand as we continue to expand and create further opportunities for our new franchisees to join our award-winning brand for their future,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “We are honored to see FASTSIGNS being recognized for its dedication to excellence and innovation, and we remain committed to offering unparalleled resources that empower our franchisees to thrive.”

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.

For more information about FASTSIGNS®, visit https://www.fastsigns.com.

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full lists of the 2023 Most Profitable Franchises, 2023 Most Innovative Franchises and 2023 Top Franchises for Veterans.