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FASTSIGNS Franchise ProfileAdvertising & Marketing Franchises > Signage |
How To Open a FASTSIGNS Franchise?
To begin your journey with FASTSIGNS, you typically start by submitting an inquiry to receive their franchise information kit. Following an initial qualification call, you will review the Franchise Disclosure Document to understand the 6% royalty and 2% marketing fees. The process involves attending a Discovery Day at their corporate headquarters, where you can meet the leadership team and learn about their B2B model. If approved, you will secure your territory and begin a comprehensive training program. With a total unit count growing to 718 locations as of 2023, the brand has a streamlined onboarding process designed to help you launch your center efficiently.
What Might Make a FASTSIGNS Franchise a Good Choice?
FASTSIGNS offers a scalable business model with a focus on professional B2B services, which may appeal to those seeking standard business hours. The financial requirements include a minimum net worth of $300,000 and liquid cash of $80,000. With a low initial investment starting at $96,243 and a high end of $377,334, it is accessible to a wide range of entrepreneurs. Data indicates a median annual revenue per unit of $300,000, with some high-performing units reaching over $816,000. Additionally, the brand shows a healthy investment payback period of approximately 15 months and a breakeven time of 18 months.
Why You May Want to Start a FASTSIGNS Franchise?
Starting a FASTSIGNS franchise allows you to enter the visual communications industry with the backing of a well-established brand that operates zero corporate units, meaning their entire focus is on supporting their 718 franchised locations. The brand provides extensive support in marketing, technology, and supply chain management. If you enjoy problem-solving and helping local businesses grow through signage and graphics, this franchise offers a creative yet structured environment. The consistent growth in unit count over the last three years demonstrates the brand's stability and the ongoing demand for professional signage solutions in the marketplace.
Is Owning a FASTSIGNS Franchise the Right Move for You?
If you are looking for a franchise with a proven track record and a clear path to ROI, FASTSIGNS may be the right fit. The initial franchise fee is set at $49,750, and the company has demonstrated steady expansion from 672 units in 2021 to 718 in 2023. You must be prepared to manage a team and engage with your local business community to drive sales. With an average annual revenue per unit that reflects a strong market presence, the key is determining if you have the $80,000 in liquid capital and the drive to maintain the brand's high standards of customer service and visual excellence.
FASTSIGNS Franchise Financial Requirements
Below, you’ll find an overview of the initial investment needed to launch the business, along with the ongoing fees required by the franchisor to maintain operations over time.
The minimum total assets (minus liabilities) you must possess.
Net Worth Required:
The estimated period to recoup your total investment.
Investment Payback:
The initial fee paid to join the franchise system.
Franchise Fee:
Ongoing percentage of revenue paid to the franchisor.
Royalty Fee:
Regular contribution toward the franchise’s advertising fund.
Marketing Fee:
The estimated timeframe to recover your initial costs.
Breakeven Time:
The total amount required to launch the franchise.
Initial Investment:
The minimum liquid capital you must have on hand.
Cash Required:
The typical yearly revenue generated per franchise location.
Average Revenue:
The middle value of yearly revenue among franchise locations.
Median Revenue:
The largest reported annual revenue among franchisees.
Highest Revenue:
The smallest reported annual revenue among franchisees.
Lowest Revenue:
A broad sector defining similar types of franchise businesses.
Industry:
A more specific division within the broader industry.
Category:
The key individuals guiding the franchise’s strategy and growth.
Leadership:
The official business address of the franchisor’s headquarters.
Corporate Address:
Available financing options to help start the franchise.
Funding Year:
The main organization that owns the franchise brand.
Parent Company:
FASTSIGNS Franchise Unit Growth Summary
A breakdown of corporate, franchised, and total units, with yearly net changes.
Total Units
Franchised Units
Corporate Units
| Units | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Units | 672 | 695 | 718 |
| Net Change YoY | N/A | 23 | 23 |
| Franchised Units | 672 | 695 | 718 |
| Net Change YoY | N/A | 23 | 23 |
| Corporate Units | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Net Change YoY | N/A | 0 | 0 |
Investment Profile
Starting a FASTSIGNS franchise requires an initial investment ranging from $96,243 to $377,334. This includes a standard initial franchise fee of $49,750. To qualify for ownership, candidates must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $300,000 and have at least $80,000 in liquid cash available to cover startup costs and initial operating capital.
Financial Performance
The FASTSIGNS network demonstrates significant earning potential, with the highest-performing unit reaching annual revenues of $816,576. While the average annual revenue per unit stands at $80,000 and the median is $300,000, the system also reports a lowest unit revenue of $1,136,387 according to recent data updates. Franchisees can typically expect a breakeven period of approximately 18 months, with an investment payback period estimated at 15 months.
Ongoing Fees and Royalties
Operating as a FASTSIGNS franchisee involves ongoing support costs to maintain brand standards and marketing reach. New units are subject to a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales. Additionally, franchisees contribute 2% of sales toward a marketing fee, which funds national brand awareness campaigns and local advertising resources to drive customer traffic.
Growth and Unit Trends
FASTSIGNS has shown consistent year-over-year growth in its franchised network. The brand expanded from 672 franchised units in 2021 to 695 in 2022, and reached 718 units by 2023. This steady upward trajectory highlights the brand's stability and the continued demand for professional signage and visual graphic solutions across North America.
Operational Model
The FASTSIGNS business model is built entirely on a franchised structure. As of the latest reporting period, there are 0 corporate-owned or company-operated units, meaning the parent company is 100% focused on supporting independent franchise owners. This structure ensures that corporate resources are dedicated entirely to the success, training, and development of the franchisee network.
Franchise Opportunity
FASTSIGNS offers a professional B2B opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the visual communications industry. With a proven track record of expansion and a robust support system, the franchise provides the tools necessary to deliver custom signs, graphics, and marketing displays. The steady increase in total units from 672 to 718 over a three-year period reflects a healthy and scalable business environment for new partners.
Frequently Asked Questions
The total investment required to open a FASTSIGNS center ranges from $96,243 to $377,334. This broad range covers various startup costs, including equipment, leasehold improvements, and initial operating expenses.