Signs Express (Falkirk) announced as finalist at this year’s BFA Franchisee of the Year Awards.

The Falkirk-based signage company, which is part of the UK and Ireland’s largest sign franchise, has been recognised for the franchisees’ ability to turn what was once an unsuccessful and underperforming business into one of the largest franchises across the network.
 

Signs Express (Falkirk) franchisee Steve McMurray, has excelled through his strong belief in customer service, great attention to detail and his exemplary management skills. Such qualities have in turn helped the centre achieve high levels of repeat business, customer referrals and increase turnover by 150% since taking over the franchise in 2005.
 
With impressive growth year on year, Steve has been able to capitalise on his previous experience to build a stronger business structure and a dedicated workforce. By embracing the business potential, he has achieved in the past two months, the turnover equivalent of what the previous owner only managed to achieve in a year.
 
Steve commented on reaching the award finals: “When I first took over the business it was underperforming and had poor brand presence in the area. I could see the potential but nothing is ever guaranteed so there was a lot of hard work in the beginning. This mainly featured around changing from the previous owner’s approach from being largely price driven to focus more on customer service and satisfaction levels to help build loyalty. I’d say that around 80% of our business now actually comes from repeat orders so maintaining these levels are vital.”
 
The awards which will be hosted on 30th September to recognise the achievements of the UK’s most successful franchisees takes place in Birmingham on the eve of The National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC. The night brings together a number of franchisees from different market sectors to receive recognition for their astute business acumen and approach to the current economic climate.
 
Established over 10 years ago, Signs Express (Falkirk) has surpassed expectations since Steve became franchisee. By recognising the weaknesses, investing in new technology and his employees, Steve has achieved what he set out to and is continuing to see the business develop and flourish as a result. His hard work and success has already been recognised having reached the finals of Signs Express Franchisee of the Year awards last year. Signs Express (Falkirk) provides a complete design, manufacture and fitting service for all forms of signage including interior and exterior signs, vehicle graphics, banners, window graphics and exhibition display products.