The Leeds franchise of graphic design and sign specialists, Fastsigns, has been owned for the last 16 years by father and son, Chris and Andy Simpson.

Chris Simpson says: “Our sales have increased in a tough economic climate and we’ve achieved this through sheer hard work and by continuing to invest in the business despite the downturn.”

At its recent annual conference, Fastsigns held an award ceremony in recognition of the success of its franchise partners. The Leeds branch was the only centre in the country to pick up awards in three separate categories, taking away the Sales Achievement Award and Franchise Partners of the Year Award. Senior account manager, Rebecca Holliday, was awarded National Employee of the Year.

Simpson adds: “We have a team of long-serving, committed staff and recruited two more people in 2012 who are really beginning to come on now.

“One of the most important aspects of working in a competitive business is making your business stand out from the crowd. Not only do we take a lot of time to research new and upcoming trends, we’ve also invested almost £200,000 on new equipment to keep us at the forefront of technology.”