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Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Our Sign Franchise

Have a general question about the FASTSIGNS® franchise opportunity? We’ve provided some answers below.

If you still have questions, contact our Franchise Development Directors online or at (888) 285-5935.

Is there a national advertising fund and how do I benefit from it?

Yes. The monthly fee is 2% of gross sales. The National Advertising Council is a board made up of FASTSIGNS franchise owners. The entity manages and implements a wide array of marketing initiatives designed to build the FASTSIGNS brand name. The National Accounts Program is also a part of the National Advertising Council. This program is specifically focused on large, national users of signs and graphics. Unique, customized solutions are provided for clients and then produced and delivered by local FASTSIGNS owners. Often, the result is incremental sales and profits for your store.

Will I have the opportunity to speak to existing franchise owners?

Yes. When you receive the FDD, you will also receive a list of all of our existing owners and their phone numbers. You are encouraged to speak with several of our franchise owners as part of your due diligence.

Are FASTSIGNS franchisees happy?

Absolutely! Based on the 2022 franchisee satisfaction survey conducted by Franchise Business Review, FASTSIGNS is top-ranked for the tenth year in a row by Franchise Business Review and for the fifth year in a row by Franchise Research Institute. We are #1 in franchisee satisfaction in our industry! As part of your due diligence, your Development Director will give you access to the surveys completed by our franchisees during this past year for you to review. Listen to what our Franchisees have to say.

Does FASTSIGNS offer financing?

FASTSIGNS is one of a limited number of franchise systems that can offer financing through Apple Pie Capital. In partnership with a variety of lenders, we will find a customized lending program for you. You can ask your Development Director about qualifying for this SBA-backed program offered exclusively to FASTSIGNS approved franchises.

How long is the franchise agreement? Can I renew it?

The current initial term of the Franchise Agreement is 10 years. At the end of 10 years, a renewal term may be available. Each renewal term is 10 years.

How much can I expect to earn?

Your earning capability depends on a variety of factors, such as your location, the amount of time you spend in the business, your sales acumen, and market conditions. Anyone familiar with business ventures knows FASTSIGNS cannot 100% guarantee a successful and lucrative franchise location. However, we are able to greatly benefit you by sharing our refined, proven business model that has contributed greatly to our success over the years. Our Franchise Disclosure Document provides an earnings claim for your review as well as reviews of average and top performer’s actual performance down to the level of EBITA.

How much are the ongoing fees?

There is a 6% royalty based on monthly gross sales. In addition, there is a 2% National Advertising Fund fee, also based on monthly gross sales. We do reduce these fees by 50% for the first year of operation for all new centers, conversions, and Co-Brands to help them ramp up the business.

Are there any "hidden" fees that I would pay?

No. There may be fees associated with annual conventions or additional trainings. Any such fees are clearly identified in the FDD and our Operations Manuals.

Does FASTSIGNS assist me in finding a location and negotiating a lease?

Yes. FASTSIGNS provides extensive site selection support and analysis. This includes market and demographic analysis, broker coordination, site evaluations, lease review and negotiation assistance, architectural plans, contractor bid review and coordination, and more.

Does FASTSIGNS have exclusive territories?

Yes. FASTSIGNS knows it is important to recognize established client relationships. As such, we award territories with a minimum of 4,000 businesses. Once we have agreed on the territory for your store, you have the peace of mind knowing that FASTSIGNS will not award another FASTSIGNS location in your territory without significant change to the demographics in your area.

After I sign an agreement, how long before my FASTSIGNS will be open?

It depends on various factors (lease negotiations, permitting, financing, New Owner Training completion, build-out time, etc.) but on average you will be open approximately eight months after signing a Franchise Agreement, if not sooner.

Does FASTSIGNS require that I have a graphics or technology background?

No. On the contrary, we would prefer individuals with sales, marketing, and operations backgrounds. FASTSIGNS is a sales and marketing business. Emphasis on developing client relationships, outstanding customer service, and the ability to manage your outside sales team is a key ingredient to achieving positive results with a FASTSIGNS center.

How much is the initial franchise fee and what do I get for it?

The initial franchise fee is $49,750 and includes the following and more:

  • Use of one of the most widely recognized brand names in the franchise sign industry
  • Four weeks of initial New Owner Training
  • One week of on-site Grand Opening Training
  • Extensive first year marketing strategy developed specifically for your market
  • FASTSIGNS® design and construction package
  • Site selection and lease negotiation assistance
  • Complete Operations and Marketing systems
  • Exclusive territory as described in the FDD
  • Complete set of Operations Manuals and best practice sharing

Does FASTSIGNS offer a Veterans or first responders discount?

FASTSIGNS makes it a point to welcome our Veterans and first responders into the company and give them the tools they need to build a successful business after their time in the armed forces. We offer 50% off the initial franchise fee, plus many more benefits. Read more about our Veteran and first responders incentives here.

See What Our Franchisees Say About FASTSIGNS

  • Jody Lamb
  • Dave and Sonya Comer
  • Donna Bilodeau & Jackie Raymond
  • Russell Hall
  • Robert & Denise Acquaye
  • Karrie Brock
  • Justin & Amanda Blackburn
  • Larry Miller
  • Michael Gilpin
  • Jeremy & Jody Kemp
  • Mark & Shawn Glenn
  • Laurie Sigillito
  • Gabrielle Mullinax
  • Steve & Renae Adrian
  • Jeff Chudoff
  • Jolene Calvert
  • Richard Wedgwood
  • Stan Gray
  • Stephanie & Chuck Drileck
  • Andy Simpson
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What To Expect?

  1. Initial Inquiry
    • Have an introductory call with the Development Director and complete a few forms that help us learn about your current business.
  2. Learn About FASTSIGNS
    • Our Development Director will send all the owners of the business a FASTSIGNS FDD.
    • We will connect you with our franchisees to gain insight from their experience.
    • Our Development Director will visit & tour your location.
  3. Develop and Open Your FASTSIGNS
    • Our process will outline the cost to convert your business to a FASTSIGNS.
    • You will get to meet our Brand President & Chief Development Officer to discuss our support strategies.

#1 In The Sign & Graphics Industry

The need and demand for signage and graphics continues to grow. Businesses are looking for new and innovative ways to compete for attention in a visually-oriented world. As a result, FASTSIGNS franchisees are in the perfect position to achieve long-term success by crafting creative, cutting-edge solutions for businesses on a local and global scale. Our response to new and sophisticated media needs:

  • Photo Scroller

See What Our Franchisees Say About FASTSIGNS

  •  - Dan & Naomi Stutzman
    “If I ever have a problem to deal with, it's sent to my FASTSIGNS support team. I know I can end the day with sending an email describing my problem, and come in the next morning with several possible solutions from the FASTSIGNS support team. This is ...”
    - Dan & Naomi Stutzman FASTSIGNS of Erie, PA
  •  - Bill & Joan Belmont
    “FASTSIGNS is a top notch organization with a wealth of knowledge and talent and has always succeeded because they believe that when and only when the franchisee is successful they will be. I strongly encourage others to seek out FASTSIGNS in their ...”
    - Bill & Joan Belmont FASTSIGNS of Lawerenceville, NJ
  •  - Paul LeBlanc
    “Choosing to start this business was one of the most important and worthwhile decisions I ever made. I knew I wanted to be with the leader in the field. That was FASTSIGNS in 1995 and it’s even truer today. Marketing and technical support second to ...”
    - Paul LeBlanc FASTSIGNS of Vancouver, BC,
  •  - Howard James
    “Before owning a FASTSIGNS franchise, I was a high school teacher and wanted an independent job. Now, I’m a successful entrepreneur, but I’m not in business by myself. The training and support that I receive from FASTSIGNS is tremendous.”
    - Howard James FASTSIGNS of Washington, DC
  •  - Dick Helmey
    “FASTSIGNS made the whole idea of new product opportunities and new solutions come alive for our current clients. It was also a good fit because it brought a lot of new resources that we really didn’t have available to us before…training, research, ...”
    - Dick Helmey FASTSIGNS of Midtown South and True Color Graphics - Houston, TX,
  •  - Clint Ehlers
    “We liked the sign industry and where it is heading technologically, and FASTSIGNS is the top dog in the category. It was important to me that I have an experienced team of professionals behind me that were dedicated to achieving my success. There’s ...”
    - Clint Ehlers FASTSIGNS of Willow Grove, PA and Cherry Hill, NJ
  •  - Donna Bilodeau
    “The support provided by our franchisor is second to none. We could not do without their expertise in all areas. We are linked by intranet to all other franchise owners and communicate daily. We subcontract work to each other and rely on each other's ...”
    - Donna Bilodeau FASTSIGNS of Windsor, ON,
  •  - Laurie Sigillito
    “One great thing about being a FASTSIGNS franchise partner is that it gives me the ability to help my community. When I joined FASTSIGNS, I didn't just open another business - I became part of the growth of Durango. As a FASTSIGNS owner, I have daily ...”
    - Laurie Sigillito FASTSIGNS of Durango, CO
  •  - Mark & Shawn Glenn
    “FASTSIGNS continues to be the perfect business model for us to reach our personal financial goals. With the brand awareness, operational support, and training resources, FASTSIGNS positions us to be the predominant visual communications leader in the ...”
    - Mark & Shawn Glenn FASTSIGNS of Dallas, TX
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