So you’ve decided to invest in a new business – congratulations! While it’s an exciting step toward career independence, you might have questions about what is the best way to spend your hard-earned money and still achieve your long-term goals. Making any kind of business investment is a major decision that will affect your personal, professional, and financial future, after all.

Especially if you’re striking out on your own for the first time – or you’re hoping to expand your existing business portfolio while gaining the support of an established brand – you might want to consider franchising. A printing business franchise, for example, offers many advantages over other types of businesses. Here are three things to keep in mind before making your next investment.

Choose the Right Industry

Research, research, research! In order to set yourself up for success, you will want to know that there is demand for whatever product or service you will be selling. Is the industry growing, remaining stagnant, or fizzling out?

Investing in a printing business franchise is an excellent way to get a jump on the booming sign industry. As long as there are stores, there will be a need for signs. Also, there is a global demand for signage which means there is plenty of room for growth and almost endless market to serve.

Look for a Strong Track Record of Success

Once you’ve nailed down a profitable and growing industry to pursue, you should turn your attention to the leading franchises in that field. Take the time to learn more about each brand’s track record. You might want to ask the following questions: Is the business model sustainable and profitable? How long have they been franchising and are they an established brand in the industry? Are other franchisees happy with their investment decision?

Signarama was the #1 ranked sign franchise on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 ranking (2014) and the winner of numerous franchise awards. You can also read owner testimonials and find out why Signarama franchisees take the time to write to us about their positive experiences time and time again. Hearing the concerns and feedback of other prospective business owners who were once in your shoes can help provide reassurance that you’re heading in the right direction.

Ask About Training and Support

Most franchises offer built-in training and support which is a huge advantage over investing in a start-up or creating a new business from the ground-up.

If you are new to the world of entrepreneurship or don’t have a lot of experience in the field, training will be key in getting you up to speed quickly. Even if you have prior business ownership experience, it’s important that you can get help when you need it. No matter where you are in your entrepreneurship journey, you want to feel confident that you have a trustworthy and reliable franchise team behind you that is willing to share their expertise.

Investing in a printing business franchise or any other kind of franchise opportunity is an exciting journey – one that can lead to great profits and a fulfilling career. Download our free franchise brochure to learn how Signarama can help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into a reality.