FASTSIGNS International Inc.—the worldwide franchisor for more than 550 FASTSIGNS sign, graphics and visual communications centres in eight countries—has been named one of the top franchises for military veterans by USA Today and G.I. Jobs magazine.

The USA Today honour is based off of data collected by the World Franchising Network for its fifth annual list of the “50 Top Franchises for Veterans,” which selected 50 franchisors from 300-plus companies that had the best representation in their operations (including franchised units, company-owned units and among the ranks of senior management) and individual programs created to attract veterans. This recognition was featured in the June 20, 2014 issue of USA Today in the “Franchising Today” section, which can be viewed online at http://www.worldfranchising.com/articles/veterans-appreciated-and-heartily-welcomed-by-the-franchising-community.

Additionally, G.I. Jobs magazine ranked FASTSIGNS in the top 10 percent of 4,000-plus franchise companies that are doing the most to recruit military veterans. This honour can be viewed online athttp://www.gijobs.com/hot-franchises-list/hot-franchises-for-veterans-2014

“We offer military veterans the most comprehensive support and financial incentives available in our industry,” FASTSIGNS Executive Vice President, Franchise Support & Development, Mark Jameson said. “These men and women sacrifice so much for our freedom, and we want to make the transition into civilian life as simple as possible for them. The FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity allows veterans to utilize the skills they learned in the military, such as their tenacious work ethic, self-discipline and ability to follow a proven system – ultimately setting them up for future success.”

FASTSIGNS is part of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) VetFran program that provides military veterans with special incentives and assistance to open a franchise. All veterans that choose to become FASTSIGNS franchise partners can take advantage of specific incentives, including a 50 percent reduced franchise fee of $18,750 and reduced royalties for the first twelve months. FASTSIGNS is the only franchise in its industry to offer a 50 percent discount to any veteran, without stipulations. Additionally, with more than 400 markets available, veterans have the opportunity to open a FASTSIGNS center in their ideal market.

Woody Poole is one example of a military veteran and franchise partner that appreciates the support FASTSIGNS offers. Poole is a nuclear trained Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy and co-owns his FASTSIGNS center in North Charleston, S.C. with his friend Milton Guerrero, who he met while serving and is also a Navy nuclear trained Chief Petty Officer.

Poole said, “FASTSIGNS helped us with every aspect of launching our business – from finding a location and buying equipment to implementing the right internal systems. Their help and guidance has been truly invaluable, and it’s reassuring to know that we can always turn to them for advice and count on receiving reliable feedback.”

In addition to these honors, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA), The Franchise Research Institute and Franchise Business Review have recently recognized FASTSIGNS for outstanding franchisee satisfaction and support.