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How big is the printing industry
and how is it evolving as technology
advances? |
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What kind of customers will I
be working with? |
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What kind of hours can I expect
to work? |
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What type of investment is required? |
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What impact has the increase
of e-commerce and the Internet had on the printing industry?
And how has Allegra taken advantage of online opportunities?
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I live in a small
market with less than 50,000 people. Would I be able to open
an Allegra Print & Imaging in my home town? |
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Do I have to start
a business from scratch? |
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Where do I get the
supplies to run my business? |
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What do you offer
in the way of technical support? |
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What are some of the most important
skills necessary to become a
successful Allegra Network franchise member? |
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How will a computer system assist
in pricing and order entry? |
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What does Allegra do to help
me promote my business in my local
market? |
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What are my on-going fees or
royalties? |
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What are the benefits franchise
members receive as members of the Allegra Network? |
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Why does Allegra go to such
great lengths to support its franchise
members? |
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Q.
A. Printing is America's third largest
manufacturing industry and employs over 1 million people, attributing
to more than $170 billion in sales. The industry continues to
grow at 3- 5% per year, with newer, value-added capabilities
such as full color digital printing (variable data) and mailing
services growing at 6-20% per year. |
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Q.
A. Allegra Network centers provide
print communications services for small to medium sized businesses.
Since you will be working primarily with other business people
in your community, most of your customers will be professionals
like yourself. Your job will be to provide them with communications
that will make them look good and their company look great! |
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Q.
A. Starting a new business may require
more hours in the beginning, as you “learn the ropes.”
We recommend that you stay open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
Monday through Friday. |
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Q.
A. The estimated initial investment
if you purchase an independent printing business and convert
that business to a traditional Allegra Print & Imaging center
ranges from $162,850 to $441,200. The estimated investment for
a start-up digital Allegra Print & Imaging center ranges
from $207,705 to $315,655. |
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Q.
A. Even though the usage of the
Internet continues to increase, the
printing industry continues to grow as printed materials are
extensively used by businesses, organizations and the community
at large. In fact, a recent study by CAP Ventures indicated
that in many cases, print volume actually increases when the
Internet is used for marketing and communication.
Through our customizable Web site and online ordering and proofing
program, our franchise members offer their customers the convenience
of order entry and print management through e-commerce which
increases sales, client loyalty and satisfaction. |
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Q.
A. Our Allegra Print & Imaging
Digital Print Centers
(link to DPC content on API a valued brand page) are a perfect
opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to own a business in smaller
markets. . The Allegra Print & Imaging Digital Print Center
is a business-to-business franchise that specializes in digital
document output, copying and graphic design, along with other
business communications services. |
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Q.
A. No get a head start and buy an
existing business! Let Allegra Network help you purchase a business
from an Allegra Network franchise member or from an existing
independent printing business and convert it to an Allegra Print
& Imaging location through our Conversion
Program and enjoy a distinct advantage over most start-up
franchises. |
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Q.
A. Allegra will provide you with
comprehensive information regarding our National Contracts pricing
with preferred vendors and
recommendations for all areas of your business. In addition,
your regional operations director will help you identify local
suppliers. |
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Q.
A. Our Technology Group is available to answer your questions
about everything from computers and prepress, to printing and
bindery, via a toll-free 24 hour help-desk phone line. In addition,
our Technology Team evaluates new products, researches ideas
to enhance operations and publishes numerous technical bulletins
and manuals and other training materials throughout the year. |
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Q.
A. Some of the most important skills
effective franchise members possess are “people skills.”
Because you will be managing your staff, dealing with customers,
making sales calls on potential customers, and networking within
your community, a wide variety of people skills will definitely
enhance the performance of your business. Other important skills
include organizational ability, an understanding of finance
and marketing, and a willingness to implement our proven systems.
Finally, it has been our experience that franchise members who
get the most out of this business simply have a strong desire
to succeed. |
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Q.
A. The use of a desktop computer
facilitates order entry, pricing, billing and other functions
essential to operating a business. As a new franchise member,
you will be fully trained on how to use this system and our
Technology Group provides on-going support for these software
programs. |
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Q.
A. Our in-house Marketing Group provides complete sales, Marketing
and public relations support and produces turn-key marketing
materials and programs to build brand awareness and develop
key accounts within your business community. |
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Q.
A. A 3.6-6% monthly royalty based
on sales volume and a 1% marketing fee. Half of the contributions
you make to the marketing fund are eligible to be returned to
you for local advertising. |
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Q.
A. The benefits of belonging are
so comprehensive, that it is not possible to summarize them
in a sentence or two. Visit our Benefits
of Belonging page for more information on the all-inclusive
support, programs and advantages you’ll receive as an Allegra
Network franchise member. |
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Q.
A. Our company’s mission is,
“To enhance the value of the businesses we serve.”
By providing franchise members with the tools they need to improve
the performance of their business, we enhance the power of the
network. |
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NEXT > Getting
Started |
