FAST-FIX: A Franchise Opportunity to 'Watch'

By: FAST-FIX Jewelry & Watch Repairs | 1,014 Shares 161 Reads

World's largest jewelry and watch repair franchise expanding its "while you shop" services nationwide; Offers recession resistant franchise opportunity

June 16, 2008 // Franchising.com // DELRAY BEACH, Fla. – As consumers nationwide are cutting back on frivolous spending in favor of the basics, retailers are taking a hit at the cash register. But for those like FAST-FIX, the world's largest franchise of jewelry and watch repair services, the weakened economy is offering a tremendous franchise opportunity, as more people are realizing it is less costly to repair an existing piece of jewelry than buy a new one.

With nearly 25 years of proven experience, FAST-FIX has established itself as the "jewel" of the booming segment, offering a recession resistant opportunity with its conveniently located stores in high traffic areas of regional shopping malls. In fact, during the nation's last recession period following the attacks of 9/11, same store sales increased two percent while overall shopping mall sales plummeted nearly 10 percent.

Based on current demand, FAST-FIX is calling for 80 new locations in the next five years, targeting Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada, among others, for expansion. Currently, FAST-FIX operates 163 locations throughout 26 states and three countries.

"Even in a down economy, FAST-FIX proves to be a recession resistant concept," said Marvin Biltis, CEO of FAST-FIX, highlighting the company's consistent annual growth for more than two decades. "We're committed to providing customers with a jewelry repair experience unlike any other and building customer trust with our professional experience and reputation."

Founded in 1984 with a cornerstone location in Pittsburgh, FAST-FIX has perfected a system for delivering fast, efficient, professional repair work on jewelry and watches for men and women. FAST-FIX stores specialize in offering a wide range of "while you shop" repair services including ring sizing, chain replacement, remounting, engraving and eyeglass repair, as well as replacing watch batteries. Stores also sell jewelry cleaners, watchbands, mountings, loose stones and engravable giftware.

"Thanks to FAST-FIX, customers no longer have to wait 2-3 weeks to have their jewelry repaired by outside contractors," Biltis added. "We pride ourselves on the experience customers receive every time they walk into one of our stores and providing a previously unavailable convenience factor."

FAST-FIX is seeking franchisees with a strong desire to grow with a recognized concept within the jewelry and watch repair industry and a passion for satisfying customers. Prospective franchisees should have a business/management or retail background, while previous franchise ownership and experience is a plus. In addition, would-be owners should not be turned away by the misconception that FAST-FIX is only for experienced jewelers. From jewelers to educators, real estate agents to restaurateurs, FAST-FIX offers a business opportunity for anyone in a high-growth industry.

FAST-FIX offers two different types of domestic franchise formats, including visible kiosks and inline stores. In addition, FAST-FIX has an unwavering commitment to help franchisees succeed in their local markets. From step one, throughout the entire franchise process, the FAST-FIX system provides training and guidance that aids in the operation of each store.

According to Biltis, there has never been a better time to join the FAST-FIX family, as the concept's strong brand recognition, high margins and notable return on investment for franchisees are key factors that set FAST-FIX apart from its competition.

For franchising opportunities, contact Jason Mattes, director of franchise development, at (800) 359-0407 or jason@fastfix.com.

About FAST-FIX Jewelry and Watch Repairs®

Established in 1984, FAST-FIX perfected a system for delivering fast, efficient, professional repair work on jewelry and watches for men and women. The company began franchising in 1987 and today has more than 150 franchised locations in the United States and Canada. FAST-FIX stores are conveniently located in high traffic areas of regional shopping malls across North America. FAST-FIX stores specialize in offering a wide range of while-you-shop repair services including, but not limited, to: ring sizing, chain replacement, remounting, engraving and eyeglass repair, in addition to replacing watch batteries.

###