May 6, 2009

CARROLLTON, TX - The National Minority Franchising Initiative (NMFI) has compiled its annual list of the Top 25 Franchises for Hispanics. Carrollton-based FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS® sign and graphics centers, was selected by the NMFI to the #12 spot on the list.

The NMFI develops the list based on a rigorous analysis of several factors, including historical performance, brand identification, franchisee satisfaction, training, on-going support and financial stability. Another important determinant is the percentage of existing franchises that are Hispanic-owned, as well as the number of Hispanics in the franchisor’s top levels of management.

“Based on the results of this year’s survey, we are extremely pleased to notice both the increase in the number of Hispanic-owned franchisees, as well as the increased Hispanic representation among the top management. There is no question that the franchising community is increasingly aware of the economic power and underlying talents within the Latino community. Over time, Latinos will realize their full potential and the playing field will indeed be level. Hopefully, that day is not far off,” notes NMFI co-founder Rob Bond.

Catherine Monson
CEO, FASTSIGNS®

“It’s an honor to be listed among the Top 25 Franchises for Hispanics,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “As the economy struggles to rebound and more and more people are looking at the option of running their own business or becoming part of a franchise network, it is our responsibility to ensure that our current and prospective franchisees are fully equipped with the most up-to-date products, services and training to ensure their success. Businesses need the products and services we sell. We are committed to our proved selection process, bringing in qualified, motivated and driven franchisees to offer the FASTSIGNS product to their local businesses and organizations.”

FASTSIGNS centers provide a wide array of solutions for customers ranging including full digital output, banners, trade show displays, vehicle graphics and full wraps, dynamic digital signage and more. Successful franchisees enjoy involvement in their communities, managing a small number of employees and building business-to-business relationships.

“Companies in all industries and of every size will always need to sell, inform and direct their customers and/or employees,” continues Monson. “As a result, the sign and graphics industry is a robust, high growth industry that is positioned exceptionally well to withstand changes to the economy, world events, or corporate dynamics.”

For a complete listing of the companies on the list of Top 25 Franchises for Hispanics, please click here The results were published in the April issue of PODER (“ability” or “power” in Spanish) Magazine, the successor to Hispanic Enterprise. For a more complete list of franchise systems that wish to increase their Hispanic and other minority representation, please go to MinorityFranchising.com The site lists over 500 companies committed to recruiting and supporting minorities, as well as resources that are essential to the evaluation process.

About FASTSIGNS International, Inc.

FASTSIGNS ® sign and graphics centers use innovation and technology to make the sign buying process simple – and fast – by offering consulting, design, production, file transfer, delivery, installation for a full range of custom sign and graphic products, including wide format banners and POP, site signs, exhibit graphics, window and vehicle graphics, decals and labels, safety and identification signage and floor graphics for interior and exterior use. Visit fastsigns.com For Franchise information, visit fastsigns.franchise.com or call (800) 827-7446.

About The National Minority Franchising Initiative

The National Minority Franchising Initiative (NMFI) was created in 2000 to level the playing field and meet the needs of a largely under-represented market. The multi-faceted NMFI program, which involves the MinorityFranchising.com website, the annual Minority Franchise Guide publication and franchise-related events throughout the country, represents an effective and cost-efficient tool for franchisors to increase minority representation within their systems.