Display Technology

Fastsigns forms diversity and inclusion committee

Photo: iStock

September 8, 2021

Fastsigns International, Inc., a sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise, has formed a Diversity and Inclusion Committee, according to a press release.

Comprised of a diverse group of Fastsigns franchisees selected from the brand's global network, the committee was created to foster an environment that promotes and prioritizes diversity and inclusion within Fastsigns and also the signage and franchising industries.

"Every company should value diversity and inclusion because of the richness and strength it brings to their business. Over the years, the signage and franchising industries have become more diverse and inclusive, but there's more we can do — and as the leader in our sector, Fastsigns is proud to lead the way," Catherine Monson, CEO of both Fastsigns and Propelled Brands, and chair of the International Franchise Association, said in the release. "Diversity and inclusion needs to extend beyond personalities, professional backgrounds, and other life experiences, and encompass all of an individual's unique characteristics and experiences, including race, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, disability, national origin, and sexual orientation. Supporting and building diversity and inclusion is the right thing to do for our employees, our franchisees, our franchisees' teams, our stakeholders, our customers, and our industry. ​​We look forward to expanding this initiative across Propelled Brands."

The eight committee members will tackle subjects such as increasing the number of minority franchisees within the Fastsigns system, promoting more open dialogue and collaboration, workplace environments, training protocols, education, and other topics with the goal of creating more inclusive initiatives. Additionally, the committee plans to work on ensuring diverse individuals can lead a rewarding career at Fastsigns International and Fastsigns locations.

The Diversity and Inclusion Committee members include the following Fastsigns franchisees: Kevin Jones, Santa Rosa and Petaluma, California, Howard James, Washington, D.C., Carmen Ruiz, Daytona, Florida, Jose Corujo, Puerto Rico, Sarosh Nayar, Dallas, Texas, Denise Acquaye, Newark, New Jersey, Shu Yang, Burnaby, British Columbia, and Shimon Osibel, Brooklyn, New York.

"Throughout my career, I've always sought opportunities to be a part of organizations that value diversity and inclusion — and that's a big part of what attracted me to Fastsigns," Jones said in the release. "I'm extremely proud to leverage my experience working for an LGBTQ-focused non-profit and serving on several boards to assist Fastsigns in furthering its diversity and inclusion initiatives to build a stronger brand and promote change in our industry."

Fastsigns has more than 750 independently owned and operated centers in eight countries including the U.S. Fastsigns, founded in 1985, is based in Austin, Texas.