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FASTSIGNS Happenings

Then vs. Now: How Things Have Changed at FASTSIGNS

Author: Jayme Nelson

As we celebrate 30 years in business, we take a moment to reflect on where we are today compared to when we started in 1985.

From Banners to Comprehensive Visual Marketing

When co-founders Bob Schanbaum and Gary Salomon opened the first FASTSIGNS in 1985, in Dallas, Texas, the concept was to provide banners and signs on a quick turnaround basis, using a new sign-making technique. This computerized process of making signs out of precision-cut vinyl allowed FASTSIGNS to offer signs next-day, something that was not readily available before.

Today, banners that were once produced by hand with cut vinyl can now be printed by the dozen in a fraction of the time. Beyond banners, FASTSIGNS now provides comprehensive visual marketing solutions and helps businesses and organizations of all sizes, across all industries. From décor elements and digital signage to vehicle wraps, mobile marketing and wayfinding systems, FASTSIGNS centers help companies and events attract attention, communicate their message, sell products, help visitors find their way and extend branding across all touch points.

A Brand Evolution and Tagline

As the services and solutions that FASTSIGNS is able to provide progressed, so did our tagline.

The original FASTSIGNS logo in black and white

FASTSIGNS old logo with the tagline: For a Quality Sign That's Right on Time

FASTSIGNS logo with the tagline: Sign & Graphic Solutions Made Simple

FASTSIGNS current logo with the tagline: More than fast. More than signs.

Internationally Known, Locally Owned

What started as a small business exploded into an international success story.  After witnessing the success of their FASTSIGNS center, Schanbaum and Salomon decided to franchise the concept. In 1986, the first franchise was sold and FASTSIGNS rapidly grew to 150 locations within five years.

FASTSIGNS began in Texas but quickly spread throughout the United States. From there, we grew to include locations in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the Caribbean, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil and Australia. FASTSIGNS now has more than 600 locations around the world, in nine countries, with many more on the horizon.

A lot can happen in 30 years. The FASTSIGNS concept flourished and pushed beyond boundaries, shaping the visual communications industry into what it is now. The #FASTSIGNSfamily continues to grow and we are more than ready to see what the next 30 years holds.

Related Article:

A Day in the Life of FASTSIGNS