FASTSIGNS Birmingham was one of the first centres to launch in the UK, in 1994. Under the leadership of the previous owners, Janie and Martin Drury the centre has become one of the mainstays of the franchise network. Following their decision to retire, the new ownership team Father, Nigel and his sons Tom and Jack Gilpin are the incoming new franchisee team. Their combined business experience and enthusiasm are an exciting combination. Read on to find out more about this dynamic trio:
Tom Gilpin - Franchisee
Specialism - Sales
Younger son, Tom has an entrepreneurial streak as well as a good understanding of the foundational business functions that are required to run a successful business. As a self-starter, Tom already manages a landscaping business in the Solihull and Knowle area and has grown this from grassroots to a business that has provided employment for up to 8 workers. It's in this area that Tom has honed his business management skills which will leave him in good stead as the lead role within the FASTSIGNS Birmingham Franchise.
What will be your role in the centre?
Although the centre is a joint venture for my father, my brother and I - I’ll be managing the day-to-day operations. I’ve just returned from the FASTSIGNS Foundations training in Dallas, Texas where I have honed my signage knowledge and skills. I’m ready to jump into the world of visual solutions. I’m excited. This is an industry driven by the advancement of technology, so there will always be something to learn and keeping my skills up to date has always been an objective of mine.
What key skills do you possess that will help you in your role as a franchisee with a focus on sales?
I’ve been launching businesses since I was 14! These have ranged from music teacher to landscaper - I know that I can turn my hand to anything. This kind of can-do attitude has always endeared me to people and I think this ability to build relationships, as well as having first-hand experience of what’s important to a business is a great combination for a sales function in any business.
Nigel Gilpin - Franchisee
Specialism - Accounts
Nigel has vast experience as an accountant, specialising in industry and has operated on the board of directors for businesses in his previous working history. Hailing from the Midlands, Nigel has a sense of belonging to the city and has also harboured an interest in visual solutions. When the opportunity to create a family business in a city that he has an affinity with, as well as one in an industry that he has ‘dabbled’ in, it was an opportunity he couldn’t miss out on.
What Excites You Most About the Signage Industry
Although I have made my career as an accountant, I’ve always had a keen interest in technology. The idea of graphic design and how that gets transferred into visual entities through signage, and the technology and manufacturing process which needs to be undertaken is exciting and full of possibilities.
Why Birmingham?
Birmingham has always had an authenticity to it. I know that there is a great culture, pride and most importantly, a strong business infrastructure in the city and in the surrounding areas. Having a visual solutions company here just makes sense. Personally, I take an interest in the advancement of Birmingham, for example, I sat on the Audit Committee for Birmingham City University, helping to ensure the integrity of their governance and finances. Working alongside an institution that brings such prosperity to the city is important and that is how I’ll look upon our FASTSIGNS venture.
Jack Gilpin - Franchisee
Specialism - Online Media and Marketing Manager
Finally, Jack brings practical know-how to this franchisor team! With a wealth of experience, gained from working as part of a property renovations business, Jack has a keen eye for aesthetics, prides himself on a job well done and has additional skills in Marketing.
How do you plan to build relationships with the existing customers of FASTSIGNS Birmingham?
We’re taking over a business that has had the same management team for over 25 years! The city is as invested in FASTSIGNS, as FASTSIGNS is invested in the city! I think initially we’ll keep it simple and aim to have meaningful conversations with the businesses who have trust in this service. We need to understand what they have received before and ensure that we can maintain that expected service.
What will be your first priority for developing your role in the centre?
I’m excited to start shouting about the great work that the centre has previously done for the businesses of Birmingham! I want to utilise things like case studies, blogs and social media to showcase all areas of the business. From our first meetings with customers to idea generation, design, production and installations. Each job deserves to be celebrated because they can be so visually inspiring and I want to show our customers just how excited we are to be working with them on their signage projects.
The Gilpins will be starting in the centre in March 2023, if you have a signage need or just want to say hello contact the centre on 0121 236 2123.