As FASTSIGNS UK celebrates 30 years in operation, we speak to John Davies, about how the franchisee business has grown, and what it stands for today
Established in 1985 in the United States by Gary Salomon and Bob Schanbaum, FASTSIGNS was developed in order to bring high-quality, and unsurprisingly, fast signage solutions to the market. In 1986 the company began franchising after receiving growing demand which then led to the company’s expansion into the UK in 1995. By the early 2000s FASTSIGNS was brought back under the ownership of its parent company and today operates as a subsidiary with a dedicated and local team.
In line with its 30-year anniversary in the British sign-industry, we take a look at how the UK arm of FASTSIGNS International has grown, and how it operates under a network of 23 centres nationwide.
According to the company, the typical FASTSIGNS centre ranges between 2,000 and 2,500sq ft. with around 796 FASTSIGNS locations across nine countries. With a presence around the globe, and expertise in the industry since 1986, it is no wonder that FASTSIGNS International and it’s UK subsidiary have been around as long as they have.
As a franchise-based business, the company feels it's important it provide a range of services to a variety of stakeholders while also supporting those wanting to start a business. John Davies, UK managing director for FASTSIGNS International, says: “As the franchisor, we open the doors for aspiring entrepreneurs to enter the signage and graphics industry, by offering a tried and tested business model that helps people build profitable businesses in this exciting, dynamic, and creative industry.”
Davies adds: “This leads to one of our key unique selling points. By working closely with our franchisees, we’re able to foster strong connections with customers throughout the UK. Our customer’s signage needs are only really curtailed by their imagination, something which, through our experience and industry knowledge, is often expanded further.”
When it comes to production, FASTSIGN centres offer solutions like custom banners, health and safety signage, vehicle graphics, wayfinding systems, digital displays, and more. “What truly sets us apart, however, is our end-to-end service,” says Davies, adding: “From initial concept and design, right the way through to installation and aftercare, we go beyond simply producing signs.”
At the time of writing FASTSIGNS operates 23 centres across the UK, however, the company has plans to open four new centres in Edinburgh, Cambridge, Bristol, and Liverpool. When asked about recent changes, FASTSIGNS emphasises that it is continually evolving, and points to its brand position called ‘Make Your Statement’ which was developed in 2022 as a way of seeing signage as more than transactional but a reflection of customers and business owners.
“In 2023, we also rolled out private ecommerce, designed to better support our existing customer base,” adds Davies, who explains: “These online tools now streamline the purchasing process for established clients, providing greater convenience and enhancing the overall service experience.
“On the operational side, we’ve developed AI-driven systems to help franchisees and their teams deliver services more efficiently. These tools free up time for what they do best – building strong customer relationships and creating impactful, bespoke signage.”
When asked about turnover, Davies says that the company is seeing a record number of UK franchisees reaching annual turnovers between £1.2 and £1.4m with the average centre currently turning over £450,000. “This growth is driven by the ongoing development of our brand and operational support, enabling our franchisees to reach their goals and thrive as successful business owners.”
When it comes to how a business operates, its values and ethos are often core to how it views itself and how it is viewed by customers. Davies says that FASTSIGNS’ ethos focuses on customer-centre innovation, quality excellence, and sustainable practices. “We strive to exceed client expectations with every project and promote an inclusive work environment. But our values go beyond business,” adds Davies.
“We take time to understand the communities we’re part of, becoming a familiar presence and building relationships that last,” says Davies, adding: “Many of our customers have also stayed with us since the early days, reflecting the trust and consistency we aim to deliver.”
When a company has been around for decades, it often means loyal and dedicated workers. Davies highlights people like Melanie Martinez from FASTSIGNS Crawley and Andy Simpson from FASTSIGNS Leeds who have grown alongside the company.
Davies also emphasises the importance of giving back to the community, adding: “We are always on the lookout for ways to give back, through charity work, pro-bono projects and supporting local causes. It’s about contributing to the places we live and work, not just providing signage.”
FASTSIGNS' consultative approach is very important to the brand and to Davies, who emphasises the benefit of having a “blend” of local insight and international standards, backed by a global network.
In order to be more eco-conscious, FASTSIGNS is working with its franchisees and suppliers to upgrade technology which can use more eco-friendly inks and materials. FASTSIGNS work with many clients in the education and healthcare sectors meaning that it is necessary it helps those businesses meet environmental goals.
One of the advantages of being an American-owned franchise, as Davies points out, is the ability to use “tried and tested” blueprints to implement solutions quickly, especially as “the US market is typically at least five years ahead of the UK,” says Davies.
“In 2025, visuals and communication are more important than ever – often forming the first impression a customer has before choosing to engage with a business,” comments Davies.
“In a world where aesthetics play a critical role, signage isn’t just functional, but it’s strategic. For those of us who are technically minded and passionate about craftsmanship, like myself, the constant evolution of technology in this field is exciting. Innovation continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, keeping us inspired and driving us to deliver even more impactful solutions.”
It's clear from FASTSIGNS commitment to its centres and its business owners that the franchisee is in a strong position for the future, especially as collaboration and sharing resources will both be important factors for businesses in the next ten years. The company will also see and hear more about the UK industry at this year’s Sign Show, where it will exhibit on Stand S404.
Statistics
23 – FASTSIGNS has 23 centres nationwide
1985 – FASTSIGNS was established by its founders in the USA
1995 – The brand entered the UK market
£450,000 – Average yearly turnover for centres is £450,000
