SEPTEMBER 2016


Fastsigns aims to double UK market presence


n Fastsigns, the global sign and graphics specialist, has unveiled more details on its UK growth strategy as it aims to double its number of franchises by 2018. Fastsigns has 20 franchise centres


across the country and is on course to be operating in 24 locations by the end of the year. Newly released forecasts show that number reaching 30-32 during 2017, before hitting 40 by 2018. Following the recent launch of the


country’s fi rst co-branded centre in Oxford North, Fastsigns’ UK team will be heavily focused on its franchise, co-brand and conversion models.


Comment


Carol Stewart-Gill is the founder of Dublcheck, a management franchise that provides commercial cleaning services. Here, she talks about how to transition into running a franchise smoothly...


While the thought of being your own boss may seem, at fi rst, a daunting prospect, having the backing of a franchisor and their wealth of experience eliminates much of the risk that being self-employed would ordinarily present. Being self-employed defi nitely demands certain characteristics, regardless of whether there is a franchisor involved, including


determination, passion and self-motivation. If you don’t possess these qualities, running your own business may not be right for you. Of course, there are many diff erent types of franchise, varying from management-style to more hands-on approaches, each of which comes with its own level of responsibility.


In terms of the administration side of the business, you should consult a franchise


8 | BusinessFranchise.com | September 2016


specifi c accountant to discuss tax returns etc, which you will now have to do yourself.


For this transition to work you must, above all, have a clear understanding that the success of the business is ultimately in your hands, and you must therefore put in the hard work in order to reap the rewards that being your own boss brings.


“There are very clear benefi ts to this


approach,” commented John Davies, managing director of Fastsigns UK. “Our co-brand off ering allows a new franchisee to eff ectively bolt on Fastsigns’ services to its existing business. Businesses’ operations continue as normal, but they have the added benefi t of selling Fastsigns branded goods, as well as joining our centre network and enjoying benefi ts such as additional expertise, marketing support and training. “We’re actively seeking print or photography businesses who feel their growth has plateaued. They need to have at least three members of staff , including


a salesperson and production/graphic designer. The sales target for the fi rst year is £125,000–£140,000, rising to £200,000– £250,000 in year two, so the potential for growth with this additional revenue stream is substantial.”


Fastsigns has also revealed that it is looking to target more high-visibility locations, including major arterial roads. This refl ects a shift in the business from being predominantly retail-focused, to now off ering a wide array of visual communications, such as external signage, banner displays, vehicle graphics, promotional items and digital advertising solutions.


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