The UK and Ireland’s leading signs and graphics company has been a driving force in both the sign and franchise industries for ethical practices and high quality standards. Being named as a finalist recognises Signs Express’ dedication to franchising and its franchisees, but also its strong presence in the sign industry that has secured its position in the marketplace for more than quarter of a century. The last two years, since an MBO in the autumn of 2015, have energised the drive of the business to expand and dominate. By benchmarking against other franchisors and competitors, Craig and Jonathan the business’ directors, began by enhancing the board team with three significant non-exec hires: Chairman, IT Director and Marketing Director who defined how the franchisor’s bold aspirations could be achieved. Over the course of 2016, the team at Signs Express’ Franchise Support Centre set a furious pace of improvements and by the end of 2017 Signs Express Ltd will have invested more than half a million pounds’. Such investment will see the company completely reinterpret the value equation between franchisor and franchisee, whilst simultaneously streamlining the operational processes that have made the brand renowned for its exemplary services. Last year, the combined efforts of the Signs Express support team have resulted in; a brand-new website; an 18% increase in sales leads; the record for best monthly sales performance being surpassed no less than 4 times by a centre; a 22% increase in social media presence; 8 new franchisees; and a record-breaking attendance for the company’s annual Convention. Combined this signals very impressive progress and reflects the incredible growth and enterprising atmosphere that permeates the franchising sector. Previously chosen as a finalist in Franchisor of the Year Awards in 2013 and 2014, the company are confident that this is Signs Express’ year. Craig Brown, Managing Director, commented, “The past two years have seen a lot of progress at the Franchise Support Centre and we continue to invest substantial amounts of time, money and ambition into our vision for 2020. We are proud to franchise and are always concentrating on improving the benefits to our franchisees and being the best not only in the franchising world, but also in the sign industry.” Signs Express is going up against four other candidates in the Franchisor of the Year award category, including Bluebird Care, Dream Doors, Driver Hire and Expense Reduction Analysts. The winner will be announced at an awards ceremony on 28th June at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, so watch this space for more information.