Happy birthday, Speedy Signs

Speedy Signs started in New Zealand in February 1998 when husband-and-wife team Grant and Sarah Archibald moved from Rotorua to open the first Speedy Signs outlet in Auckland’s Penrose. This pilot operation provided the opportunity to fine tune the business model before they considered expansion through franchising. Today there are 27 Speedy Signs stores from Whangarei to Invercargill, along with 13 franchises of sister company EmbroidMe.

‘It’s been a fantastic journey, and it doesn't feel like 25 years since we started,’ says Sarah Archibald. ‘That 8-month-old in my arms in the 1998 pic (below) is now 6’ 2” and married! Thank you to everyone, all our franchisees past and present, our suppliers and supporters, for making it such a success. All Speedy Signs stores were given an anniversary cake so they and their teams can celebrate the success of a brand we’re all proud to be part of.’ 

The Archibalds have contributed to the wider success of franchising in New Zealand too, having both served on the Board of the Franchise Association. Speedy Signs is also a past winner of the Supreme Franchisee of the Year title in the Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards.

Opening day, 23 February 1998. Both Grant & Sarah's new baby and new business grew fast!

The start of something big: Grant Archibald applying the finishing touches to the first Speedy Signs in New Zealand.

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