Banners, posters and signs that sell, inform, and direct.
FASTSIGNS is proud to be a part of the Oakland, and East Bay community. We strive to recycle, and use biodegradable products when appropriate. With the addition of our Hayward production facility, and the Oce flatbed printer, we have been able to reduce our production waste by up to 80%!
Join our facebook fan page at: http://www.facebook.com/fastsigns218
Keywords: signs, banners, designs, posters, graphic design
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
We have been opened since 1995.
What is your primary product or service?
We started with a little vinyl plotter in 1995... until now... full color, large format reprographics capabilities. Where the only limitation is your imagination... and your budget.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Linda Fong grew up in Oakland, and had worked at PG&E just a couple of blocks away from her current FASTSIGNS of Oakland location. When she left to join her husband in his hair salon, kenz!, in Alameda, she didn't know that she would be back in downtown Oakland a few years later.
After several years as a hair dresser, and a couple of children later, she wanted to be in a business where relationships can be forged, and have her weekends and evenings free for her new family. FASTSIGNS seemed the likely way to go, and as an Oakland native, she wanted to establish a presence in the city she knew and loved.
Michelle Darnell is the store manager, and has been with FASTSIGNS Oakland since 1999. She was working for a sign supplier before joining FASTSIGNS as a customer service rep. Michelle quickly embraced the industry and moved into the designer and then the management position.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
FASTSIGNS Oakland started as a quick turn around sign and graphic company. Over the years, we've evolved into project management and coordination. Many businesses do not think about signs until an event draws near, or a building is near completion. FASTSIGNS Oakland tries to collaborate with the event coordinator, contractors, facilitators to ensure their sign needs are met in a timely fashion.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
FASTSIGNS is a franchise with more than 500 locations worldwide.
Provide detailed directions to your location
FASTSIGNS Oakland is in the heart of downtown Oakland on the corner of Franklin Street and 19th Street.
What type of payments do you accept?
We accept all forms of payment - cash, checks, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express are the most common.
Which areas do you service?
Primarily East Bay area of Northern Caifornia. We pack and ship for our clients with multiple locations across the country.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Michelle Darnell
What are your hours of operation?
Monday thru Friday 9am - 5pm