Lecturer Keddy puts theory into practice

After an eight-year career as a University Lecturer, Keddy Banda decided it was time to leave the world of academia and enter the world of business.

Keddy, who moved to the UK from Zambia 23 years ago, took a year out after leaving his post at Edgehill University in Ormskirk to focus on finding the right opportunity. The right opportunity turned out to be Signarama and Keddy joined the team in Preston as a Sales Manager. Keen to put his knowledge into practice, he helped to build the business for several years before taking it over in 2009 when the then owner and franchisee, David Allen, retired.

“I lectured on management and organisational behaviour for years, so I knew about the benefits of a franchise model. In my years as Sales Manager in Preston, I grew to know the business inside and out. When David decided to retire, the chance to head up an exciting and thriving sign company in the region was too good to miss. I saw huge potential and relished the prospect of growing the business and meeting challenges head on. There’s nothing more exciting than seeing a project through to completion and having a happy, satisfied customer,” explained Keddy.

Recognised worldwide, the Signarama brand was well established in Preston. The first thing Keddy did was to go through his database and engage with as many previous customers as possible. He re-established contact with suppliers and let prospects know the business was under new ownership!

Thanks to his hard work and enthusiasm, the business has grown by 25% and, keen to expand his business offering to a wider audience, Keddy is now looking to setting up a Signarama Light showroom in Manchester. This new office would provide employment for two more people and, if things go as planned, a full-service Signarama franchise will soon follow!

At less than half the investment of a full-service Signarama franchise, the Light showrooms are fitted out exactly like all other Signarama centres, but without the production equipment. The footprint is smaller and therefore franchisees pay lower rent and business rates. Because production is outsourced to top quality suppliers, franchisees can concentrate their efforts on driving sales and delivering Signarama’s legendary service.

“From day one, I’ve had top quality business support and advice which has enabled me to overcome the day-to-day challenges. And the ongoing training we can access keeps us up to date with the latest in trends and technology,” adds Keddy.

“Being part of such a great brand has so many benefits. Customers know they are dealing with a top quality, reputable company and the name Signarama opens doors that as an independent I probably couldn’t. I enjoy great discounts from equipment manufacturers and suppliers because of Signarama’s global buying power.

“Becoming a Signarama franchisee is one of the best things I’ve ever done – it’s rewarding and exciting – I’m achieving life goals.”

Find out more about upcoming exhibitions and book your free tickets to follow in Keddy Banda’s footsteps.