Fastsigns ranked 6th best franchise for veterans

Fastsigns has been recognised as one of the top franchises for veterans by Entrepreneur magazine.

The signage franchise reached number six on Entrepreneur’s league table, 2020 Top Franchises for Veterans. It was the only graphics and visual communications franchise to rank in the top 30 positions, and beat 144 other businesses to the sixth spot. The achievement comes after Fastsigns was recognised in the Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans report last year.

Entrepreneur magazine’s ranking looks at franchises and the measures they’ve taken to help veterans start a business in the franchise industry. Only the brands offering the best incentives and support schemes are identified in Entrepreneur’s annual list.

Fastsigns was able to impress the judges, as the business takes part in the International Franchise Association’s VetFran programme for ex-military personnel. It also offers an exclusive deal for veterans, including a 50% discount on the franchise fee, saving franchisees over £19,000. Fastsigns is the only franchise in the industry to provide a half-price fee with no conditions.

The franchise’s Chief Support and Development Officer, Mark Jameson said:

“We take great pride in the programmes we’ve developed at Fastsigns, which are designed to support and guide veterans as they transition back into civilian life or look to open a business of their own. Currently, over 12% of franchisees in the Fastsigns system are military veterans, and that number continues to grow each year.”

One of Fastsigns’ veteran franchisees, Darrin Lawrence, served in the US Army National Guard and Army Reserve, and launched his business in Texas after 22 years in the military. He explained:

"Having an Army background, I appreciate a structured environment and proven processes that lead to success… Fastsigns has supported me every step of the way, providing me with unparalleled resources and an impressive franchisee network that I can tap into and utilise at any time. I'm proud to be a part of the Fastsigns system and am grateful for the tools they’ve equipped me with as a small business owner."