Anne and Dave Hitch bought Signs Express (Peterborough) in 2001. The centre, under its original owner, was under-performing but the new owners invested in it as they could see the potential in the Peterborough territory. Franchisees Anne and Dave built the business over 13 years and made their exit in 2014 having grown and sold a very successful business. 2001 Anne and Dave buy Signs Express (Peterborough). The early months of the business were spent developing relationships, building up the customer base, re-training the staff and starting to build their own team. 2007 The business was now to showing its full potential. With more space required, larger premises were located. A modern purpose built unit was purchased with the knowledge that even once the business was sold, this would guarantee a long term income stream. 2009 Continuing to thrive, Signs Express (Peterborough) added the King's Lynn area to their territory. The centre is a finalist in the British Franchise Association (BFA) franchisee of the year awards and also won a Special Achievement award at the Signs Express convention. 2011 Anne Hitch reaches the finals of the EWIF (encouraging women into franchising) awards. Initial contact is made with a client that had a specialist requirement country wide for braille and tactile signs. 2012 Having demonstrated their expertise in this field they become the preferred supplier. Investment is made in specialist equipment for the production of braille and tactile signs, extending their in-house capabilities and improving profit margins. 2013 This leads them to win the Signs Express award for innovation at the 2013 convention. To cope with demand, a new team member is recruited specialising in vehicle graphics. 2014 After years of planning and working towards their exit strategy, Anne and Dave Hitch exit the business having sold at their desired price. If you think you could be the next Signs Express success story, get in touch for a chat.