At USA Signs of America, we welcome new Franchisees, and are happy to take part in helping them get their new store up and running. A big part of any business is the storefront signage, which will give visibility and advertising for the Store. We understand that this could be a very stressful time with a lot of decisions to be made. We try to make this part of opening a new store as smooth as possible for the new franchisee.
- We take all the contact information down, including a fax number, e-mail address for updates, information (address, type of store, landlord information, etc.) and the scheduled opening date.
- We schedule a site survey of the store to get specific details on the building. Measurements are taken of the storefront, the access behind the facade is checked, so that we will know whether a raceway is required or not, pictures of the shopping center and pylon signs are taken and returned to us.
- We call the local building department to find out how many signs and what the specifications are for the signage. After we receive the survey and the landlord requirements, we coordinate this information to fit with what the building department will allow. (These procedures will take approximately one week under normal circumstances.)
- Once we know what type of sign and zoning requirements, we prepare a proposal for the customer, with computerized shop drawings and elevation drawings, which are submitted to the franchisee for approval and/or changes.
- Once the customer approves the drawings, they are then sent to the landlord for their approval. When it is approved, we submit them to the building department for the sign permits. The time the permits take and the cost vary from city to city. That will be advised after we speak with the building department.
- Once the sign is completed, it is check by our quality control department. Every sign is measured and checked thoroughly against the work order and shop drawings. After the sized and colors are confirmed, the U.L. numbers are recorded. The crates are checked for extra neon, screws, mounting pattern, and transformers. Every transformer also has U.L. sticker. It is then approved for shipping.
- Once the sign is ready to ship, we schedule the installation date with the installer whom we have chosen. The installer will install the sign and complete the final electrical hookup of the sign (providing the electric is already within 6" of the facade). Once installation is complete, the installer will have a customer approval sign-of form at the site, which the customer or general contractor in charge will sign off prior to installer leaving site. Photos of completed installation are then sent to USA Signs along with sign-off, which are then forwarded, to corporate office to keep on file.
