FASTSIGNS vs Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of FASTSIGNS vs Signal Graphics Business Center including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Start-Up Costs and Fees

 
FASTSIGNS Franchise
Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
Investment $218,596 - $298,679$159,000 - $201,000
Franchise Fee $49,750$25,000
Royalty Fee 6%5%
Advertising Fee 2%-
Year Founded 19851974
Year Franchised 19861982
Term Of Agreement 10 years20 years
Term Of Agreement 10 years20 years
Renewal Fee --


Business Experience Requirements

 
FASTSIGNS Franchise
Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
Experience
  • General business experience
  • Marketing skills
  • Sales experience

  • General business experience
  • Marketing skills

  • Financing Options

     
    FASTSIGNS Franchise
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
      In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
    Franchise Fees No/YesNo/Yes
    Start-up Costs No/YesNo/Yes
    Equipment No/YesNo/Yes
    Inventory No/YesNo/Yes
    Receivables No/YesNo/Yes
    Payroll No/YesNo/Yes

    Training & Support

     
    FASTSIGNS Franchise
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
    Training --
    Support

    As a FASTSIGNS franchisee, you will have our direct and active support from the very beginning including: *Site Selection and Build-Out *Pre-Opening Marketing Blitz to drive traffic *Grand Opening Support and Guidance from an outside sales manager and brand ambassador *Dedicated Business Consultants to assist with business/finances training, marketing and sales, production and staff management *Franchisee Mentor Program to guide you and lend support in every aspect of your business *24-Hour Web-Based Learning Management System that keeps you and your staff up-to-speed and in-the-know in this fast-paced market *Personalized Operational Support such as advanced pricing and cost analysis tools and dedicated business consultants *Business & Financial Management, Product Testing & Ratings, Vendor & Equipment Evaluations and Advanced Technological Expertise *A FASTSIGNS Network featuring an annual convention and vendor show, Franchise Partner message boards, Franchise Advisory Committee and online access to support Training, Technical, Marketing and HR Tools

    Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Security/safety procedures, Field operations/evaluations
    Marketing Professional broadcast and print advertising materials. * Customized online presence. * Powerful web marketing. * Sales training programs. * Dedicated Marketing Services ManagerCo-op advertising, Ad slicks, National media, Regional advertising
    Operations 15% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 3 - 8

    Absentee ownership of franchise is NOT allowed. (100% of current franchisees are owner/operators)

    3% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 1 - 2

    Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed. (95% of current franchisees are owner/operators)


    Expansion Plans

     
    FASTSIGNS Franchise
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
    US Expansion YesYes
    Canada Expansion NoNo
    International Expansion YesNo

    Company Overviews

    About FASTSIGNS

    More than fast. More than signs.

    The brainchild of Gary Salomon and his partner, the late Bob Schanbaum, FASTSIGNS came to realization in 1985 when the duo experimented with the concept of quick turnaround signs and graphics. Ultimately - and, of course, unbeknownst to Bob and Gary at the time - FASTSIGNS would go on to revolutionize the signage industry and helped create an entirely new niche.

    By late 1987, the Dallas Metroplex area played host to three company-owned FASTSIGNS centers, and by that time, Gary was committed to growing the brand through franchising. Today, FASTSIGNS is a recognized leader in the sign industry with over 675 franchised units in eight countries - the United States & Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Grand Cayman and Australia (operating under the SIGNWAVE brand).

    At its core, FASTSIGNS is a company of collaborators, strategists, graphics experts and problem solvers all focused on one thing: raising the visibility of businesses across the country and around the world. By design, this is a goal largely left open to interpretation. There are virtually endless ways to raise visibility for a company, limited only by imagination. This fact alone makes FASTSIGNS a unique franchise opportunity best suited for driven, creative individuals.

    Veteran's Discount - 50% of Franchise Fee

    #2 in Franchise Gator's Top franchises
    #55 in Franchise 500 for 2020.
    #44 in Franchise 500 for 2021.



    About Signal Graphics Business Center

    In 1974, Stephen Morris founded Stop & Go Printing, a Denver, Colorado, printing center that combined typesetting, quick printing, copying and commercial printing. The company began franchising in 1982. Six years later, Stop & Go Printing changed its name to Signal Graphics. Today the company offers computer graphic services, copying, commercial printing, packaging and shipping services.
    You have unshakable ambition, a dedicated work ethic and a deep desire to succeed. Signal Graphics can help you achieve it. Independence. Unlimited growth potential. Go after your dream.