"Instant Imprints is the first one-stop logo shop targeting both the retail and business-to-business customer base," said Instant Imprints' co-founder and president, Leo Kats. "Now is the perfect time to become 'the' brand name and set our footprint as the leader in this industry."

Today, Instant Imprints has more than 40 stores open across 18 states, with company projections calling for an additional 50 stores to open throughout 2005.

The first print
Instant Imprints was founded in 1992 when Leo Kats took the reigns of the Russian immigrant family business. His family had been running a screen printing store that specialized in apparel, sportswear and novelty items. Kats recognized a tremendous opportunity to cross-sell his products into the business-to-business realm, which caused orders to double and triple, and the business expanded even further. During the next seven years, Kats carefully tested more ideas, and added additional services including embroidery, signs and banners, and promotional products. In 2002, Kats launched his first franchise.

A typical Instant Imprints store is approximately 1,500 square feet, but finding the perfect location is what sets apart this business from any other, added Kats.

Entrepreneurs seeking to own an Instant Imprints franchise are provided with a turnkey store package that includes everything from special paper clips to a six-color screen press. The necessary tools to set up an Instant Imprints franchise are included in the $116,000-equipment package, which contains the following: two embroidery machines, screen printing press, vinyl cutter, wide format digital printer, heat transfer equipment, inventory, supplies, as well as proprietary software.

To ensure each store has a uniform look, the turnkey package also includes store signage, a complete showroom package, office furniture and hundreds of pre decorated samples, among other items.

Potential franchisees need between $35,000 and $45,000 in start-up capital, including $25,000 for the franchise fee.

A business model that's fit to print
"We've assembled a complete franchise package, allowing the concept to be re-created by outgoing, like-minded entrepreneurs," said Kats. "When you combine the training and support with the turnkey store package, new franchises are poised for explosive growth from day one."

Previous graphic design and/or marketing skills are not a requirement to own an Instant Imprints franchise. In fact, outstanding people skills and the want to 'sell' a quality product are the two most important factors for success for the business owner, added Kats.

"Owning an Instant Imprints franchise is like having five businesses under one roof," said Kats. "Our concept is designed with five separate 'profit centers,' allowing franchisees to enter a market and dominate the promotional imprinting needs of that community."

Started as a family business, Instant Imprints continues to be a great opportunity for families. Most of the current Instant Imprints franchisees are husband and wife teams, with hopes to include other family members and grow a successful business.

"By encompassing all facets of the promotional decorating industry, Instant Imprints is setting a new precedent," said Kats. "All existing and newcomers to the marketplace will have to compete with us, as we become known as the one-stop shop for everyone's needs."

About Instant Imprints
San Diego, Calif.-based Instant Imprints was founded in 1992 by Leo & Lev Kats who led the family imprinting business into a new direction and began franchising in 2002. The company encompasses all aspects of the promotional decorating industry, including screen printing, embroidery, signs and banners, heat transfers, and promotional items. More than 40 stores are open in 18 states, with an additional 50 stores planned to open throughout 2005.

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