Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t have any experience in the sign industry. Can I still become a FASTSIGNS Franchisee?
Absolutely! Many of our franchisees had never had experience in the signage industry prior to becoming a FASTSIGNS Franchisee. That’s what joining a franchise is all about- benefiting from training and support that is provided by industry experts to give you the knowledge to make a success of your business.
Do I need to have a specific employment background?
No. You do not need to have a specific employment background to become a franchisee; however it is preferable that you have experience in marketing, sales or operations as FASTSIGNS is primarily a sales and marketing business.
How long is the franchise agreement and can I renew it?
The current initial term of the FASTSIGNS Franchise agreement in the UK is 10 years. After which point the agreement can be renewed for a further 10 years.
How much is the initial franchise fee and what do I get for it?
The initial franchise fee is £17,500. For this fee you get the following plus much more:
- Use of one of the most widely recognised brand names in the franchise sign industry
- Four weeks of initial New Owner 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
- Access to a FASTSIGNS dedicated support and training website
As well as ongoing training and support visits to keep your business up to date with any developments in technology.
How soon will my centre be open after signing the Franchise Agreement?
It depends on various factors (lease negotiations, permitting, financing, New Owner Training completion, construction time, etc.). On average you will be open approximately six months after signing a Franchise Agreement or sooner.
Will I have the opportunity to speak to current franchisees?
Yes. As part of your due diligence we encourage you to visit any of our current franchisees, not only to see a fully functioning FASTSIGNS centre but also to ask them questions about their experience being a franchisee. We will provide you with this opportunity during the discovery process.
Are FASTSIGNS Franchisees happy?
Absolutely! Based on the 2015 franchisee satisfaction survey conducted by Franchise Business Review, for the tenth year in a row FASTSIGNS ranked as a top Franchisor by Franchise Business Review, and for the fifth year in a row by Franchise Research Institute. We are Number 1 in franchisee satisfaction in our industry!
Why would I choose a franchise over starting my own business?
Franchising has a reduced rate of risk and many other benefits including:
- Support in all aspects of your business from industry experts
- Instant recognition with a strong brand
- Buying power of significantly lower prices, that could not be achieved from a standalone business
- Training programmes to ensure your business stays ahead of the curve
What are the ongoing fees?
There is a 7% royalty fee based on monthly gross turnover. In addition, there is a 2% Central Marketing Fund fee, also based on monthly gross turnover. We do reduce these fees to 4% royalty fee and 1% Central Marketing Fund for the first year of operation for all new centres, conversions, and Co-Brands to help increase cash flow in the first year. Is there a Central Marketing Fund and how does it work?
What is the central marketing fund and how does it work?
FASTSIGNS holds a Central Marketing Fund (CMF) which is made up of contributions from the franchise network of 2% of gross turnover (1% to new franchisees for the first year of trading). These contributions are then spent on marketing activities, such as Pay Per Click and Search Engine Optimisation, for the network. Activities are decided on by the CMF board members who are franchisees elected by the FASTSIGNS Franchise network.
Does FASTSIGNS provide protected territories?
Yes. FASTSIGNS provides protected territories of a minimum of 4000 business counts to all centres. This means we will not open a FASTSIGNS centre in your territory without significant change to the demographics in your area.
Will I get assistance in finding a premises and negotiating a lease?
Yes. FASTSIGNS provides extensive site selection support and analysis. This includes market and demographic analysis, land lord coordination, site evaluations, lease reviews and negotiation assistance, architectural plans, contractor bid review, coordination and more.
Will I get assistance in fitting out my centre?
Yes. Once your premises has been confirmed our new centre opening team will work with you to map the layout of your centre, arrange contractors to perform construction and decoration tasks and order all furniture, equipment and technology needed.
