Scaling for Success: Why Gaby and Bob Mullinax are the 2026 FASTSIGNS Award Winners

In the world of franchising, there are business owners who follow the model, and then there are those who embody the spirit of the brand so completely that they set a new standard for the entire network. At the 2026 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, that standard was personified by Gaby and Bob Mullinax.

The Mullinaxes, multi-unit owners of FASTSIGNS in Fullerton and Brea, California, were recently honored with The FASTSIGNS Franchisee of the Year Award. This prestigious recognition is not given lightly; it is reserved for franchisees who represent the very best of our culture, from empowering their employees to providing transformative visual solutions for their customers.

The Power of the Co-Brand Strategy

What makes Gaby and Bob’s story particularly inspiring for prospective entrepreneurs is their path to ownership. Originally the owners of a family-owned photography business, they recognized the digital disruption hitting their industry nearly a decade ago. Instead of standing still, they strategically chose to co-brand with FASTSIGNS in 2016.

By integrating the FASTSIGNS model into their existing business, they didn't just survive—they flourished. They diversified their revenue streams and future-proofed their livelihood. In 2017, they expanded further by acquiring a second center in Brea, creating a scalable family enterprise that now includes their daughter, Kaitlyn, and her husband, Aaron.

Why This Matters for Future Franchisees:

• Adaptability: The FASTSIGNS model is designed to integrate with existing businesses or stand alone as a powerhouse center.
• Multi-Unit Potential: As the Mullinaxes demonstrated, our systems are built for scale, allowing families to build a multi-generational legacy.
• Supportive Culture: Winning this award highlights the deep support and recognition that high-performing owners receive within our franchise system.

As President Jim Howe noted, the Mullinaxes’ ability to evolve and develop strong leadership within their centers is a testament to the strength of the FASTSIGNS system. Their story is a blueprint for how a clear vision, combined with a world-class franchise model, can lead to unmatched business excellence.

Read the full announcement at Franchise Dictionary Magazine

Ready to build your own legacy? [Explore Our Co-Branding Program] | [Steps to Ownership]