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FASTSIGNS® Expands Its New York City Presence

In an impressive move, FASTSIGNS® is broadening its reach in the bustling New York City market with the addition of three new centers. This expansion, which includes the co-branding of two family-owned businesses with a rich legacy, underscores the franchise's commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship while leveraging its robust franchise network.

The Vision Behind the Expansion

Greg Carafello, a seasoned Area Developer with FASTSIGNS since December 2017, leads this ambitious initiative. His vision is to create a synergy between established local businesses and the vast resources available through the FASTSIGNS brand. Carafello has played a pivotal role in increasing the number of FASTSIGNS locations in New York City from two to a notable ten.

The latest additions include:
1. FASTSIGNS co-branded with One Stop Blueprinting: Located in Greenpoint and South Brooklyn, this partnership merges the expertise of one of the city's leading blueprinting services with the nationally recognized FASTSIGNS brand, catering primarily to the construction sector.
2. FASTSIGNS co-branded with Alpina Printing Services: Situated on Manhattan's 28th Street, this collaboration enables a second-generation, family-run business to integrate into the FASTSIGNS network while maintaining its trusted community reputation.

A Resilient Spirit

Carafello’s personal story adds a layer of resilience to this venture. He was at the World Trade Center during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. While he managed to escape physically unscathed, the blow to his business was significant. Nevertheless, he returned to the new tower as the first small-business tenant, demonstrating his unwavering spirit.

As he reflects on the past as the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Carafello underscores the importance of building stronger businesses that can withstand adversity. Each new entrepreneur joining the FASTSIGNS family is a step towards further empowering the local business community to thrive.

Thriving in a Competitive Marketplace

FASTSIGNS centers across New York City have reported consistent, double-digit growth year-over-year. New franchise owners are reaping the benefits of a solid lead generation framework, national marketing strategies, and business coaching that FASTSIGNS provides.

Carafello notes a significant shift in his franchise approach, attracting independent print shops and sign businesses keen on enhancing their competitive edge through co-branding opportunities. His approach isn’t to replace these local establishments but to elevate them, affording them access to advanced technologies and a wider market reach while preserving their hard-earned customer relations.

Future Growth Plans

Looking ahead, Carafello anticipates awarding around three more franchise agreements within the next year, with a strategic goal of adding ten more FASTSIGNS centers across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx over the next five years.

He emphasizes that becoming a FASTSIGNS franchisee is about investment in a comprehensive visual business system that has long-term value, ranking this opportunity as a significant financial asset.

Recognition and Legacy

FASTSIGNS continues to affirm its position as a leader in the custom signs and visual solutions market, achieving record growth and franchisee satisfaction in recent years. With 2026 marking another remarkable year, the brand opened thirteen new centers and secured eighteen additional franchise territories, reflecting its enduring appeal and reliability.

Conclusion

FASTSIGNS is not just expanding its footprint; it is also playing a crucial role in the resilience of New York's local economy. As Carafello succinctly puts it, "We're helping another business owner build something stronger than they could build alone." With its growing network and dedication to excellence, FASTSIGNS stands as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs in the city that never sleeps.