FASTSIGNS is the #1 ranked sign and graphics franchise, holding that position for nine consecutive years (2017–2025) according to Entrepreneur Magazine. Founded in 1985 and franchising since 1986, the brand operates 775+ locations with over 125 corporate support staff — a 1:6 support ratio unmatched in the industry.
At a Glance
- Liquid Capital Required: $80,000 (Liquid Capital refers to readily available cash or cash-equivalent assets that can be accessed without borrowing, selling a primary residence, or relying on future income.)
- Ownership Model: Owner-operator
- Location Type: Retail center
- Time Commitment: Full-time
- Experience Required: None; sales/marketing background preferred
Top 5 Reasons to Invest
- #1 in category nine consecutive years
- 1:6 franchisee-to-support-staff ratio
- $20M+ set aside for SBA financing
- B2B model with Monday–Friday hours
- Hall of Fame franchisee satisfaction recognition
About FASTSIGNS
FASTSIGNS launched in 1985 and began franchising in 1986 — nearly 40 years of refining the business model. The brand provides signage, graphics, and visual communication solutions for businesses across all industries. Services range from traditional signs and banners to vehicle wraps, trade show displays, and digital signage.
With 775+ locations and 125+ corporate support staff, FASTSIGNS maintains a 1:6 support ratio — the highest in the sign franchise industry. The brand has earned Franchise Business Review’s Hall of Fame recognition for 10 consecutive years of high franchisee satisfaction, along with Entrepreneur’s #1 ranking in the sign and graphics category from 2017 through 2025.
Why Franchise With FASTSIGNS?
- Industry-leading support ratio — 125+ corporate employees supporting 775+ locations creates a 1:6 ratio unmatched by competitors. Dedicated support staff covers operations, marketing, sales training, and business development.
- Proven financing infrastructure — Over $20 million set aside specifically for SBA financing through Apple Pie Capital. Qualified franchisees access funding programs unavailable to independent sign shops.
- B2B operating hours — Monday through Friday business model serving commercial clients. No late nights, no weekends — professional business clientele on professional schedules.
- Protected territories — Each territory includes a minimum of 4,000 businesses. Exclusive territory protection ensures franchisees don’t compete with each other.
- National accounts program — Corporate-level relationships with large national clients create incremental sales opportunities for local franchisees through the National Advertising Council.
ABF Exclusive Insights
Market Analysis: The sign and graphics industry generates $29 billion annually with continued growth as businesses compete for visual attention. Every business needs signage — retail, restaurants, healthcare, professional services, construction, events. This creates diverse, recession-resistant demand across multiple verticals.
Competitive Advantage: Independent sign shops lack the buying power, training infrastructure, and brand recognition that FASTSIGNS provides. Per-center gross sales average $1,201,287* — the highest in the sign and graphics industry by a significant margin. The franchise’s continuous R&D develops new products and services that keep franchisees ahead of market trends. Systems refined since 1987 drive profitability while minimizing waste.
*Per Item 19 in the 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. This figure represents the average gross sales for full-service FASTSIGNS centers. Individual results may vary.
ABF Timing Insight: Nine consecutive years as the #1 franchise in the category isn’t an accident — it reflects consistent execution and franchisee satisfaction. The Hall of Fame recognition from Franchise Business Review validates that franchisees validate the model. Item 19 earnings disclosure in the FDD provides transparency for qualified candidates.
Training & Support
- Foundations training class — Comprehensive initial program covering operations, sales, production, and business management fundamentals before opening.
- New Center Business Consultant — Dedicated consultant assigned to guide you through launch and early operations with hands-on support.
- Pre-opening marketing campaign — Corporate team builds your client pipeline before doors open. Day one starts with leads ready to convert.
- FASTSIGNS University — 24/7 online education platform provides continuous learning opportunities for owners and staff across all business areas.
- Mentor program and franchisee network — Every new franchisee receives a mentor from the existing owner network. Regional meetings, annual conventions, and message boards connect you with the community.
Who Are We Looking For?
- Sales, marketing, or operations background preferred
- Comfortable managing outside sales teams
- Values client relationships and customer service
- Creative problem-solver for visual communication challenges
- No graphics or technology background required
Franchise Fit & Capital Readiness
Who Is NOT A Good Fit for This Franchise
Are you seeking passive or absentee ownership? This requires active leadership building client relationships.
Are you uncomfortable with B2B sales and business development? Client acquisition drives the business.
Do you prefer working alone rather than managing a team? Staff management is essential.
Do you have less than $80,000 in liquid capital?
If you answered yes to any of these, this franchise may not be the right fit. Candidates who do not meet the financial criteria below are typically not approved by the franchisor.
Investment Readiness Check
- Liquid Capital Required: $80,000 — required for consideration
- Minimum Net Worth: $300,000 verified during qualification
- Ownership timeline: Approximately 8 months from signing to opening
- Total investment ranges $215,194 – $377,334
- 10-year franchise agreement with 10-year renewal terms
- SBA financing available through Apple Pie Capital for qualified candidates
All financial thresholds are set by the franchisor and are non-negotiable during approval.
Franchisor Authority Disclosure
America’s Best Franchises provides guidance and introductions. Final approval criteria, financial thresholds, and territory decisions are determined exclusively by the franchisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need a graphics or sign-making background?
A. No. FASTSIGNS prefers candidates with sales, marketing, and operations backgrounds. This is a sales and marketing business — staff handles production while owners focus on client relationships and business development.
Q. How large are the territories?
A. Each territory includes a minimum of 4,000 businesses. Territories are protected and exclusive to each franchisee.
Q. Does FASTSIGNS help with financing?
A. Yes. FASTSIGNS has over $20 million set aside for SBA financing through Apple Pie Capital. Qualified franchisees access customized lending programs unavailable to independent operators.
Next Steps
By submitting this form, you confirm that you meet the liquid capital requirement of $80,000 established by the franchisor.
Complete the form below to request a qualification review and discuss territory availability for FASTSIGNS.
This profile represents general franchise information. Individual results may vary. Refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document for complete details.
CEO of FastSigns International discusses franchise ownership. Franchisees talk about the business model and franchisee satisfaction.
The Fast Signs franchise opportunity
Franchisee Franchise Story
“Choosing to start this business was one of the most important and worthwhile decisions I ever made. I knew I wanted to be with the leader in the field. That was FASTSIGNS in 1995 and it’s even truer today. Marketing and technical support second to none, but most of all a team dedicated to my success both today and in the long run. I have never regretted my choice.”
“FASTSIGNS is a top notch organization with a wealth of knowledge and talent, and has always succeeded because they believe that when and only when the franchisee is successful, they will be.”
“We began looking into franchises and FASTSIGNS instantly stood out from the rest. We weren’t just blown away by the business model – it was also the great resources and ongoing support they provide franchise partners.”
“One great thing about being a FASTSIGNS franchise partner is that it gives me the ability to help my community. When I joined FASTSIGNS I didn’t just open another business – I became part of the growth of Durango. And as a FASTSIGNS owner I have daily opportunities to help other businesses and organizations thrive, which in turn keeps our community strong and growing.”
“I’ve always been entrepreneurial by heart, but I liked the structured systems FASTSIGNS has in place. It was important to me that I have an experienced team of professionals behind me that were dedicated to achieving my success. There’s no better system if you are looking to get into the business.”
“FASTSIGNS continues to be the perfect business model for me to reach my personal financial goals. With our brand awareness, operational support, and training resources, FASTSIGNS positions me to be the predominant visual communications leader in the market.”