2021 marks the 30th year in business for FASTSIGNS® of Wilmington, NC. The center has seen incredible growth in the past three decades in three separate locations. Their current space, where they moved in 2016, has a vehicle bay, allowing them the ability to work on larger projects, as well as have a larger showroom.
The center has experienced various changes over the years, and sign production was more labor intensive in the earlier years. Now with full-color printing, there is a broader focus and the different equipment involves a faster process with additions like routing and vehicle wraps.
The team at FASTSIGNS attributes much of their success to staying up-to-date with technology improvements over the years and also how they fully accommodate the needs of their clients. In addition to franchisee Pete Spadafora, the team includes David Hervey, Center/Customer Service Manager; Lee Simental, Lead Designer; Josh Petty, Designer/Vehicle Installer; Scott Pharr - Production/Installer; Lance Magee, Outside Sales Consultant.
Pete Spadafora purchased the center in 2013. Pete shared advice for entrepreneurs and insight into his FASTSIGNS pivot from his former career. “Jump in, don't think twice. You get support from FASTSIGNS and from the great team you hire. Let your team make decisions for you, and rely on them and their strengths.”
“Deadlines are important to our customers, and we strive to stay within customer timelines,” said David Hervey. “By doing that and communicating openly with the customer, we have seen great success.”
David Hervey, who will celebrate 23 years at the center this August, came to FASTSIGNS with a communications degree and a background in art.
“I’ve enjoyed being with the company for these many years,” said Hervey. “Our team works really well together. We focus strongly on the importance of customer relations. We’ve built so many strong relationships over the years, and the repeat business is what keeps us going.”
Now in their 30th year, they look forward to rebounding and providing even more service, taking on larger projects and utilizing the talent they have onstaff to help customers do everything from starting a business to celebrating a milestone.