Franchise Printers -- Some Franchise Players

Gerhardt notes that several members of Allegra's management team have experience operating in mature business segments, giving them an edge in being comfortable with and relishing growth challenges. In fact, he sees the company doubling its sales over the next five years.

Titus at Minuteman Press also feels it is critical to judge and maintain a pace with technology. "The biggest challenge we have is keeping an eye on the evolution of the digital equipment, because that's the expensive end and what the people invest their money in," he says.