Signwave taking the risk out of franchising

“Signwave is committed to supplying all the information needed by a prospective franchisee so they can make such an important decision. Our foremost goal is to help franchisees succeed in creating successful businesses by assisting them in obtaining high sales and maintaining them, as well as increasing profits year after year,” says Signwave franchise , Katherine Groom. “We believe that the single most important factor in our success is the fact that we treat franchisees as strategic business partners. We are absolutely committed to giving every possible competitive advantage.”

With the concept ‘Sign and Graphic Solutions Made Simple’, the business services franchise opened its first store in 1993 and has since expanded into a full operating system with cutting-edge technology, services and products. With a network that spans the globe, it has become a leader in one of the world’s most actively franchised industries.

Offering a full line of products that includes banners, RTA lettering, full colour digital graphics, wide format printing, trade show exhibits, displays and vehicle graphics, to name a few, it also provides a library of typestyles and graphic fundamentals to create unique designs for customers.

Signwave also provides extensive training on every aspect of store operation during a four-week training period in Dallas, Texas, which covers computer operation, sign design and production, marketing, advertising, public relations, inside and outside sales, accounting, employee relations and business management. All programs, systems and procedures are fully documented in a set of proprietary manuals. Other ongoing training includes one week of in-store training during opening week, field training, field marketing, operations and technology training.

“A franchisee receives expert site selection assistance by using market research and demographic information provided by Signwave to help select a highly visible and accessible store location that will give a powerful competitive advantage. They will also receive assistance in recruiting and interviewing initial employees, Yellow Pages advertising coordination and store fit-out. This streamlined system expedites start-up. Another advantage is the nationally negotiated discounts and benefits by enjoying significant savings on materials and supplies from many approved and preferred vendors,” Groom says.

“During the first week that the store is open, a franchise business consultant (FBC) will be there to ensure a smooth opening, answer questions and assist with staff development. Shortly after the grand opening, the franchisee and FBC will work on implementing a store-specific local marketing plan (to augment the first year territory marketing plan), setting up sales calls and beginning telemarketing and direct sales activities. Custom direct mail, point-of-purchase and public relations materials are also available to help give the campaign maximum impact.”

The Signwave franchise fee is $280,000, which includes leasehold, improvements, fixtures, deposits, permits and insurance, equipment, inventory, tools and supplies, training expenses, advertising and professional fees. Royalty fees are seven percent of gross sales plus two percent advertising fee (also on gross sales).