Friederike and Simon Slee, FASTSIGNS Hammersmith
the focus is on the individual's transferable skills to be successful in business, not prior experience.
Investing a payout to achieve financial freedom Simon and Friederike Slee, the previous franchisees of FASTSIGNS Hammersmith, perfectly illustrate how redundancy can be the catalyst for a life-changing investment. Simon, an Australian
investment banker and his German landscape architect wife, Friederike, settled in London and sought an opportunity to build a business together. Simon’s redundancy package became the initial capital for them to invest in the purchase of the FASTSIGNS Hammersmith centre in 2010. Despite having no prior signage experience, their diverse individual skillsets (Simon’s in sales and Friederike’s consultative/design experience) were extremely transferable for their new business. During their 16 years with
FASTSIGNS, they experienced the peaks and troughs of business ownership. In 2018, after the loss of a major client, which accounted for 30% of their customer portfolio, they experienced a drop in sales of 20%. By fully embracing the FASTSIGNS support model, accessing support from the global team and the guidance of UK Managing Director, John Davies, they transformed their centre's trajectory. This support included dedicated business consulting, scenario planning and marketing support. Their determination, combined with the franchisor's support, led to phenomenal growth. FASTSIGNS Hammersmith grew 343.6%, increasing its turnover from £354,958 in 2010 to £1,219,568 in 2024 when they sold their centre. The business ultimately provided not only financial stability, but also facilitated their personal goals and allowed Friederike to be
hands-on with the couple’s children as they grew. The ultimate realisation of their
investment came when the Slees decided to exit the business to move to Australia and be nearer Simon’s parents. The franchisor actively supported their two-year exit strategy, which included creating a growth plan to make the business attractive, scoping marketing opportunities and introducing them to specialist franchise resales agents. This commitment to a smooth exit, supporting them through
a family legacy. The Leeds centre, run by father and son, Chris and Andy Simpson, is a prime example of a family- run FASTSIGNS business that has thrived for over 30 years. They have become the highest sales volume centre across the FASTSIGNS UK Network, winning the CEO Circle award. Andy's wife, Diane and Chris's wife, Catherine, have also worked in the centre, making it a true "family concern". Chris and Andy, who came to FASTSIGNS after Chris took voluntary redundancy from a
“Pivot from employee mindset to entrepreneur, creating a business where you set the terms”
the sale completion and legal transfer of the business, highlights the long-term value of a strong franchise partnership.
The FASTSIGNS Network: A global brand with local impact As a FASTSIGNS franchisee, you don’t just buy into a local business; you join a globally recognised network boasting over 796 locations worldwide and operating in nine countries. This global presence is a significant advantage, providing the leverage for combined purchasing power and securing large-volume contracts, through initiatives like the National Accounts Programme. The UK network itself has 22 franchised units. Moreover, franchising provides an excellent vehicle for creating
high-level management career in IT, established clear roles and an effective working relationship, proving that the franchise model can comfortably accommodate family dynamics and provide a foundation for multiple generations to work together. Redundancy can be the
turning point you need. By investing in a proven franchise like FASTSIGNS, you are investing in a powerful brand, a supportive network and the opportunity to secure the financial and personal lifestyle you’ve always wanted. The journey from employee to successful business owner is challenging, but with the support of a global franchise brand, it is a rewarding reality.
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