In a time when the printing industry is typified with grey hair Signwave Australia says there is an emerging trend of a new demographic of franchise owners – and it is young.
The Australian executives of the sign, graphics and visual communications group say it has a growing number of younger, business professionals with a fresh understanding of market opportunities taking the plunge into franchise ownership.
The latest is thirty-something new owner of Signwave Artarmon Blake Haymen, who follows a similarly aged Craig Buchanon who took over the South Melbourne Signwave.
“This is the second resale since the new Master Franchise took effect and we are noticing a distinct pattern in the type of professionals interested in centre ownership,” said Dean Rowland, franchise development manager, Signwave Australia. “Where once upon a time, we would have had more interest from older professionals looking to change vocations towards the end of their careers, now we are seeing a different breed of go-getter with more long-term goals.”
Haymen says he sought the opportunity after researching the potential for future growth in the sign and graphics industry, as well as identifying areas he could enhance to attract and keep more customers, “In the past, I have had unfortunate experiences with companies that don’t put enough focus on service or solutions. Having already transformed a similar situation in the powder coating industry, I am confident I can transfer those skills into building a highly profitable, reputable sign and graphics centre.”
Previous to this acquisition Haymen successfully managed his family-owned powder coating business, Precision Coating for eight years. During which time he grew the business by remaining focused on its profitability and efficiency and seeking new market prospects in a maturing industry.
“Compared to the metal fabrication industry, the sign and graphics industry still has plenty of upside and continued relevance in Australia,” said Haymen. “I really cannot see how Australian businesses can outsource custom signage overseas and I am excited by the opportunities digital signage and other upcoming technologies offer the industry.”
While Haymen has proven business management experience, the Artarmon Signwave centre is his first venture on his own. “Franchising, and in particular the Signwave franchise, can allow me to build on the know-how I already have and apply it to my own outfit. As part of a franchise network, I don’t need to reinvent the wheel – the framework is already there, it’s up to me to make something of it by nurturing staff and satisfying clients. It’s going to take some effort but working with a B2B approach I can also take advantage of the commercial and lifestyle balance that the Signwave model offers.”
Signwave says his rationale is one that exemplifies the emerging demographic of candidates seeking franchise opportunities. Linda Sultmann, general manager, Signwave Australia says, “He is one of a number of commercially-minded, service-oriented professionals of a similar age, looking to create their own success stories and backed by an extensive network and franchise support.”
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