Sometimes in business, you know what you want and get right to work achieving it. Wes Snyder, a multi-unit FASTSIGNS franchisee is a shining example. Starting with a single location back in 1999, he grew the business until it was ranked the top performer in the network, then sold a majority stake to another franchisee. But he wasn’t done with this brand just yet. Three years later, Wes would partner with fellow franchisee Jeff Parson to begin building an empire through acquisitions. Currently, he’s grown his enterprise-level operation to include a total of six FASTSIGN locations – two in Arizona, two in Texas, and one each in Florida and North Carolina. And he didn’t take a backseat to running the business either, having worked his way up from behind the counter to the boardroom. Each location now generates upwards of $1.5 million, as the goal for Wes is to achieve a net operating income of 20% across the board. The International Franchise Association (IFA) eventually singled Wes out for greatness, bestowing the honor of becoming one of their “Franchisees of the Year” in 2023.
With over 25+ years of experience in the franchising industry, Wes Snyder has become a wily veteran in the FASTSIGNS network. He’s quick to credit the franchisor for providing him with the infrastructure and support necessary to run a successful multi-unit operation – now up to six locations with 60 total employees in four different U.S. states. In addition to racking up a “Franchisee of the Year” award in 2023 from the IFA, he was also singled out by his corporate backers with the prestigious FASTSIGNS Award – the highest recognition you can achieve in the franchise network.
In his own words, Wes shares his journey to franchise ownership and FASTSIGNS Franchisee of the Year.
Why did you purchase a franchise rather than start an independent business?
I purchased a FASTSIGNS franchise based on their track record in the industry and the quality of the management team.
Which of your prior skills and experiences are most helpful in operating your business?
I am an accountant. That has helped a tremendous amount with valuations, pricing and financing.
When researching franchises to buy, what criteria mattered to you most?
The management team of the franchisor was the most important criteria for me. Having a seasoned team with success across many networks was very important.
Did you speak with other franchisees? Which questions did you ask?
Yes. I asked about their success and failures in the franchise network. I also asked about employees, customers and margins.
Which questions did you ask the franchisor?
I asked them what their No. 1 priority is. I wanted to hear FASTSIGNS franchisee profitability.
What were your biggest challenges when you first started out, and how did you overcome them?
Understanding the business. Lots of work and following the system that the franchisor has in place.
How does the franchisor support and encourage your success?
Propelled Brands does a fantastic job with putting together a plan to follow for success in sales, production and profitability.
What are you most proud of and why?
I am most proud of the team we have assembled and how we have created many careers for a lot of people.
What advice would you give to new or potential franchise buyers?
Do your homework. Find a franchise management team with the same goals and ethics as you do.
Explore the FASTSIGNS Franchise Opportunity
FASTSIGNS offers a unique franchise opportunity in the signage and visual communications industry. With a proven business model and over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS provides franchisees with comprehensive training, ongoing support, and innovative marketing strategies to ensure success. Franchisees benefit from a strong brand reputation and a vast network of resources designed to drive growth and profitability. Whether you’re new to franchising or an experienced entrepreneur, FASTSIGNS equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic market, making it an excellent choice for your next business venture.
To learn more about the FASTSIGNS Franchise Opportunity, visit www.fastsigns.com, email [email protected], or call 214-346-5679.
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