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Expands to 24 Canadian locations

Fastsigns (Carrollton, TX), a business-to-business, marketing -solution franchise with more than 530 locations, has signed deals for new franchises in Kitchener and Toronto, ON, that will increase its presence in Canada to 24 centers.
The two new Canadian locations are the latest step in FASTSIGNS overall franchise expansion program, which calls for a combination of opening new centers and converting existing, independent signshops to the brand through a streamlined, lower-investment process. The expansion comes as the company reported double-digit sales growth in 2010 in the Canadian market.
The new Toronto Fastsigns will be a conversion of an independent sign-and-graphics shop, SignTel, owned by Philip and Sue Yang. Philip Yang said owning a FASTSIGNS was something of a dream, allowing him to take advantage of a large, supportive, franchisee network and business model. The company’s conversion program provided an opportunity for Yang to affiliate with a leading brand like FASTSIGNS at a lower investment level than starting one from scratch.
Yang, who learned about Fastsigns in an industry trade magazine, said, “I always wanted to own my own Fastsigns and be a part of an industry-leading franchise system. I’ll have the benefits of their support, their marketing programs and innovative technology, but still be in business for myself.”
The new location in Kitchener will be opened by franchisee Rob Richmond, a successful, international businessman who has worked in finance on four continents, including as finance director with a large manufacturing firm.
For franchise information, contact Mark Jameson or Brian Wieters at mark.jameson@fastsigns.com and brian.wieters@fastsigns.com. Also, call (800) 827-7446.