Staffordshire-based signage specialists reflect on three decades in business
FASTSIGNS UK, part of the leading global signage and visual communications brand, is marking three decades of business by reflecting on success and plans ahead.
Since opening its first centre in Leeds in 1995, the company has grown its nationwide network of signage specialists to 23 centres, where it provides custom signs, graphics and visual marketing solutions to a range of businesses, from SMEs to multi-million pound enterprises.
Headquartered in Staffordshire, the company is part of the wider FASTSIGNS corporation, based in the United States, and owned by Propelled Brands.
The UK business’ longest-standing customers include brands like Sixt, Arla and Tax Assist Accountants, but its services extend to other industries, like healthcare, education and hospitality, as well as construction, sport and leisure.
Its 30th anniversary comes hot off the heels of one of its most successful years yet, which saw the brand surpass £10 million in sales in 2024, open two brand new centres in new locations and make a slew of promotions.
That success, according to its managing director, John Davies, is down to relationships: “It’s exciting to be at the helm of a business that shows continuous year-on-year growth. Yet, at the same time, it manages to retain both long-term partnerships with not only valued customers, but also our teams around the country.
“Those two pillars are the cornerstone of every business – without either, our business certainly wouldn’t be where it is today – and I’m grateful to be a part of an industry that values loyalty and longevity.”
As it enters its 30th year, the team has laid out ambitions to open four new centres, with its sights set on locations like Edinburgh, Cambridge, Bristol and Liverpool, as John adds: “Last year’s performance was one to remember and there are lots of reasons why. Despite economic uncertainty, we expanded our franchise network, promoted hard-working team members and existing centres experienced positive sales.
“Because of that success, we’ve committed to investing even more back into our network by opening four new centres this year, all in brand new locations around the country. One of the many benefits to working as a franchise model is that we can adapt to the economic climate and the various industries we work in, making our work – and a career at FASTSIGNS - and as your own boss, much more secure.
“While none of us know what’s around the corner, we feel optimistic about the year ahead for us.”
Much like its customers, many of FASTSIGNS’ own franchisees have also been with the brand since the beginning, including Crawley’s Melanie Martinez, Leeds’ Andy Simpson and Guildford’s John Harvey – all of whom also celebrate 30 years this year.
In addition to their anniversaries, there are multiple milestones to mark across the network this year, as John says: “Firstly, our parent company based out in the US is celebrating four decades – a momentous achievement and one that we’re all proud of at both sides of the pond. And, closer to home, alongside Leeds, Crawley, Guildford and Sheffield - now with new owners at the helm - is also celebrating 30 years. Meanwhile, Huddersfield and Peterborough are preparing to mark 20 years of business in their communities.”
For more information on FASTSIGNS UK, and its network of franchises across the UK, head to their website.
