It’s always daunting to set up something new but after I had been to a couple of the franchise shows I decided that franchising was the best option for me. Franchising gave me the comfort of knowing that help and expertise were on hand in all areas of the business from operations to HR, marketing, accounts and technical support.

Joe Smith opened the doors of his custom designed sign making centre back in June 2006 at the age of 29. Since then he has become a family man supporting his wife and son as well as continuing to run his successful Signs Express centre based on the Saxon Business Park, Bromsgrove.

1. What did you do prior to becoming a Signs Express franchisee?

After leaving school I worked in many sectors including hospitality, distribution, the motor trade and building. I then worked for several years as an Account Manager for an Advertising Agency which lead into working as a Graphic Designer. I grew up in the sign industry as my father has worked in automotive corporate identity for 40 years this background allied with the various industry skills learned have paved the way to the sign industry for me.

2. What made you decide to buy a franchise?

When I decided to start up my own business I was only 28, I had some business skills already but knew that I could benefit from the expertise available from a support network. It’s always daunting to set up something new but after I had been to a couple of the franchise shows I decided that franchising was the best option for me. Franchising gave me the comfort of knowing that help and expertise were on hand in all areas of the business from operations to HR, marketing, accounts and technical support.

3. What have been your biggest rewards from having your own business?

My biggest rewards are being my own boss, and having the flexibility and time to spend with my family. The signage industry is always progressing and helps to keep the work varied which keeps the job interesting.

4. What has been your biggest order to date?

We recently had a school new build which was a £40k job; school signage is one of the areas we specialise in.

5. Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years?

Happy and successful.

It’s always daunting to set up something new but after I had been to a couple of the franchise shows I decided that franchising was the best option for me. Franchising gave me the comfort of knowing that help and expertise were on hand in all areas of the business from operations to HR, marketing, accounts and technical support.