Two of FASTSIGNS’ franchise centres are ending their first year on a high note after joining the global signage specialist.
In Oxford North, Michael and Sarah Ward-Hendry increased the capabilities of their school photography and marketing company last summer by becoming the first business to be part of FASTSIGNS’ Co-Brand scheme in the UK.
The first-year success of the debut co-branded centre in Oxford North showcased the effectiveness of the model. Joining the FASTSIGNS brand affords the franchisees many benefits, including preferential rates from its trusted suppliers. For the Oxford North centre, this allowed them to purchase large-scale machinery such as the Zund CNC Cutter. By purchasing such key equipment so early on in its FASTSIGNS journey, the centre received fully facilitated training from the US and UK based teams to help ensure quality signage is consistently created.
FASTSIGNS also worked alongside owners, Michael and Sarah, to develop a structured marketing and business plan. This diligent planning allowed the business to recruit six members of staff, diversify its client base and grow its product portfolio extensively.
“Becoming a Co-Branded company with FASTSIGNS has made it possible for us to move our business forward, fast,” commented Michael Ward-Hendry, owner of FASTSIGNS Oxford North. “Our in-house capacity has improved, reducing the need to outsource as we did previously, yet we haven’t lost the identity of our existing brand, Ward Hendry Photography, which has been running for 13 years.”
Further success for FASTSIGNS comes from its Bolton signage branch, which is set for a strong future following its new ownership after being bought by experienced project manager David Hiney last July. With numerous large-scale projects within the leisure, engineering and education sector already secured, expansion features heavily in the franchise’s strategy. Plans to take on a certified printmaker and an accompanying apprentice, alongside its two sales staff hires in recent months, are also underway.
Owner of FASTSIGNS Bolton, David Hiney, described his future goals:
“After taking time to focus on building relationships and strengthen our offering, I’m excited to roll out my plans for expansion in year two. The addition of new talent will be integral to this, allowing us to increase our production capabilities which will complement our sales drive.”
John Davies, Managing Director of FASTSIGNS UK, commented:
“So much has been achieved by these two centres in such a short space of time, which is as much a testament to each respective owners’ hard work as to the benefits the FASTSIGNS support can bring. I’m sure these shining examples will continue to motivate our community of franchisees, while inspiring other businesses who are looking to take the ‘next step.”
