Allegra Network Chairman William D. McIntyre, and President Carl Gerhardt, recently announced personnel promotions and key organizational changes at Allegra Network, one of the largest printing franchises in the world. The joint announcement was made at the company's headquarters in Northville, Michigan.

The executive changes result from implementation of Allegra Network's continuing strategy to position itself for future growth. In addition, the company's development efforts continue to increase, requiring additional resources to support new initiatives.

Laura Pierce was promoted to vice president and controller of Allegra Network. In her new capacity, Pierce will assume responsibility for all accounting functions, budgeting, financial services, franchise/legal services, and administration of the Northville headquarters office. Pierce has been with the company since 1996 and received her MBA in 2002.

Tim Wood was promoted to vice president of technology. Wood has more than 25 years experience in the printing industry and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Printing Management. He has been a member of the Allegra Network team since 1992 and has worked for the company in a variety of capacities including field support. His increased responsibilities include overseeing the company's e-commerce programs, internal information technology support and training and logistical support for the company's newly launched Digital Print Center initiative.

In his new position as vice president of field operations, Dirk Nelson will assume increased levels of responsibility of growing the businesses of existing franchise members across North America as well as the businesses of new members joining the system, including start up support for the company's Digital Print Center initiative. Nelson has worked in other areas of the company and began his career in the printing industry more than 20 years ago when he joined the Allegra Network franchise as an owner and operator of an American Speedy Printing Center.

Gerhardt explained, "Allegra Network is committed to adding resources to facilitate the company's growth initiatives. This vision includes growing the businesses of existing franchise members as well those of new franchise members through the array of support programs we provide. Financial analysis, the implementation of new technologies and consultation received from field support staff are invaluable in the development of successful, progressive businesses. We are proud to promote these key leaders to roles of such importance."

In addition to comprehensive support to its franchise members, Allegra Network is heavily focused on growing their network through franchise development initiatives. Last year the company launched a major development program for converting independent printers to the Allegra Print & Imaging brand. The company's Acquisition Program, continues to identify and help franchise members acquire independent printers in their market. Since the program's launch in 1995, more than 140 acquisitions have been completed, resulting in more than $43 million in incremental sales. In addition, Allegra Network announced the launch of a new franchise concept for an all digital printing center earlier this year.

With more than 400 locations in North America and Japan, Allegra Network supports five brands including Allegra Print & Imaging, American Speedy Printing, Insty-Prints, Speedy Printing and Zippy Print. The company was ranked 108 in Entrepreneur magazine's Annual Franchise 500® and was ranked the 90th global franchise (2004). Allegra Network was also rated the best in its industry and the 20th fastest growing franchise according to Entrepreneur based on the company's financial strength, stability, growth rate and size (2003). These honors mark the twentieth year Allegra Network has ranked among the publication's prestigious list. Its independently-owned franchises specialize in full-service print and graphic communications. Principal shareholders include members of Allegra Network management and Domino's Pizza founder and former CEO Thomas S. Monaghan.