ASI Sign Systems, Inc. Plans Aggressive Franchise Expansion Program

ASI Sign Systems, Inc. is pursuing an aggressive Franchise expansion program, with plans to add nearly 25 new territorial Franchises in prime metropolitan areas throughout the United States and Canada during the next several years. It also plans to expand its Franchising system into Central and South America, as well as other international markets.

ASI Sign Systems is the leading provider of architectural sign systems and planning services in North America. Founded in 1965, ASI and its parent firm - Denmark-based MODULEX - form the world's largest architectural signage network, operating in more than 35 countries worldwide.

The company currently has 34 well-established territorial business-to-business franchises. Today, ASI has completed a comprehensive streamlining of its franchise concept with a strong emphasis on sales and marketing.

ASI also has implemented a dynamic new concept, designated the "SignCenter," which serves as a signature showplace for its franchises. The SignCenter features a large, state-of-the-art "gallery" in which to exhibit and demonstrate products and services to clients.

"We never really stopped franchising," said Lance Utterback, President and Chief Executive Officer of ASI. "It's just that we were not aggressively committed to it because our growth was such that we had to stop and take stock of what we needed to do, to better meet the needs of our franchisees.

"We wanted to make sure that the level of goods and services we offered our franchisees represented the highest level of excellence possible, before we sought to add new franchises," he said. "Some years back, we reached that point. Now we're ready to 'take our concept on the road,' so to speak."

ASI currently offers new territorial Franchise Opportunities in the following major markets, each serving a minimum population of one million: Jacksonville, Orlando and Tallahassee, FL; Salt Lake City, UT; Las Vegas, NV; Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, PA; Richmond, Norfolk and Roanoke, VA; Memphis, TN; Albany, NY; Columbia and Charleston, SC; Columbus, OH; Newark, NJ; Puerto Rico, and Hawaii.

Franchise locations available in Canada include: Toronto and Ottawa, Ontario; Winnipeg, Manitoba; Vancouver, British Columbia, and Montreal, Quebec.

As ASI adds franchises, it also anticipates sales growth. During the next six years, the company expects to double its sales volume, from its current $50 million to more than $100 million.

"Both our short- and long-term goals are quite simple," Utterback said. "They are to maximize the success of our franchisees - not only through maximizing profits, but also by focusing on their quality of life and their day-to-day living environments."

ASI offers its franchisees extensive and ongoing support and training programs. These include marketing and sales support, proven business processes, preferred vendor and supplier lists, proprietary computer software, merchandising and promotional assistance, manufacturing and engineering expertise, and an established reputation.

And, because ASI is part of a global conglomerate, it provides franchisees with both national and international clients, many of which have projects in local franchisees' markets.

"We offer the kind of support that assures that a franchisee doesn't have to re-invent the wheel," Utterback said. "We have a successful formula with programs that have been tried and proven.

"What we need are a few good men and women who can take our concept and implement it with energy, discipline, dedication and focus. If they do that, we believe they will be successful. The opportunities are enormous."

ASI specializes in multi-step business solutions, assisting clients in the planning, selection, design, development, installation and maintenance of complex signage programs. The company pioneered the architectural signage industry and has earned a reputation for superior products and workmanship, a unique marketing approach and an unparalleled commitment to customer service.

ASI became part of MODULEX A/S, a Danish signage firm and member of the LEGO Group, in 1993.