Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Wes Froebel at his center in Amherst, NY.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Wes Froebel Grows Through Acquisitions

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Minuteman Press franchise owners Elena Galkina and her son Vlad Galkin, Santa, Clara, CA.

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: Elena Galkina & Vlad Galkin

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Minuteman Press franchise owners Shane, Carlene, and Steve Brunk, Treasure Coast, FL.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Across Florida Build Momentum

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L-R: Bob Titus (CEO), Eric Shank (Catonsville, MD), Bob Heimbuch (RVP), and Nick Titus (President).

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Eric Shank Recognized at World Expo

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The Brown Family and team at Minuteman Press in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: 30-Year Legacy in Rancho Cucamonga

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Minuteman Press Franchise Owner & President's Club Member Michelle Kreft, Burlington, WI.

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Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Corey Sanders at his center in Greenville, SC.

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: From Business Consulting to Printing

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Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Melanie Collao & Gary Biala, Winnipeg, MB.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Grow Printing Business in Winnipeg

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Minuteman Press franchise owner Jesse Gaither (left) and team, Centerville, Ohio.

Minuteman Press Franchise Grows in the Heart of Centerville, Ohio

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Minuteman Press franchise, Crown Point, IN: Matt Glaros (Business Partner) & Jeffrey Meyers (Owner).

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Jeffrey Meyers Talks First-Year Growth

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LANSING, Mich. –&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/mi/lansing/">Minuteman Press in Lansing, MI</a> has officially transitioned to new ownership as longtime owners Cary and Lyle Ritter retire after 13 years of dedicated service to their community. The business has been purchased by local entrepreneur Val Orlando and his brothers Anthony, Greg, and Paul, continuing the center’s proud tradition as a family-owned operation invested in supporting Lansing-area businesses. The Ritters leave behind a legacy of community involvement, strong customer relationships, and steady growth, while the Orlando family brings fresh energy and a deep commitment to carrying that legacy forward.A Personal Reflection: Our 13-Year Journey with Minuteman PressBy Cary &amp; Lyle Ritter, Retiring OwnersWe opened our&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> in July of 2012 after researching several franchise opportunities. Minuteman stood out as the perfect fit, offering not only a strong business model but a supportive network that helped us thrive from day one. With Minuteman Press, we felt we were joining a family, not just buying a franchise. As a result, we stepped into the world of business ownership with energy, optimism, and a commitment to becoming part of our community.Community Engagement &amp; GrowthDuring our first six months, we threw ourselves into local involvement, joining as many organizations and groups as possible to get our name out and build relationships. Each group contributed uniquely to our growth:<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Rotary Club connected us with larger, long-term customers.</li><li>BNI delivered immediate referrals and steady opportunities.</li><li>Women’s Realtor Group introduced us to realtors, title companies, and bankers—an exceptional group that drove meaningful business.</li><li>“Old Folks Meeting” (as we lovingly called it) brought us two lawyers who remain loyal customers to this day.</li><li>Local Chambers of Commerce—we joined five—opened doors in every nearby community.</li><li>Bowling alley advertising helped us stay visible in a fun and unexpected way.</li><li>Joining churches, choirs, and bands at customers’ invitations strengthened our ties and reinforced our reputation as a business that cares.</li></ul>Ultimately, our growth came largely through word of mouth, fueled by genuine relationships and a passion for helping customers bring their projects to life. We truly loved the people we worked with, and that connection made every day rewarding.Support from the Minuteman Press FamilyOur success didn’t happen alone. The ongoing franchise support we received from Minuteman Press International played a major role in our journey. Looking back, we believe our success was directly tied to the support we received from Minuteman Press:<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>The Internet Marketing Program was one of the strongest tools we used, driving real growth year after year.</li><li>New product updates ensured we always knew what was trending and could offer customers the latest solutions.</li><li>Direct mail guidance was a huge part of our success, and Minuteman provided the training we needed to excel.</li><li>FLEX software made managing the business easier; we appreciated the constant updates and improvements.</li></ul>“The combination of strong franchise support and our deep community involvement created a foundation for lasting success. Whenever we faced a challenge, the Minuteman Press Team was ready to help. That support made all the difference.” -Cary Ritter&nbsp;Retirement &amp; Passing the TorchAfter 13 wonderful years, we decided to retire so we could spend more time with our children, grandchildren, parents, and extended family. It was bittersweet—our customers and staff made every day enjoyable, and we will always cherish the projects and people that filled our shop with energy and purpose. These relationships made going to work fun, meaningful, and rewarding.As we pass the torch, we want to extend our warmest wishes to Val, the new owner, and his brothers Anthony, Greg, and Paul. We are confident in Val’s ability to continue serving our community with dedication and passion. This business has been a worthwhile and exciting adventure, and we know Val and his brothers will carry our legacy forward.&nbsp;Our time with Minuteman Press has been rewarding, meaningful, and deeply fulfilling. We are grateful to have been part of the Minuteman family. Thank you for every moment, every customer, and every success along the way.A New Chapter for a New Family: Val Orlando Carries Business Forward with Brothers Anthony, Greg, and PaulA Special Q&amp;A with Val OrlandoWhat was your background before Minuteman Press?&nbsp;“My background is in business. My brothers and I own a few businesses in Greater Lansing that primarily focus on hospitality. We had been customers of Minuteman Press for more than a decade, utilizing the great services provided by Cary and Lyle to promote our own businesses.&nbsp;When the opportunity to purchase Minuteman Press in Lansing arose, we knew it would be another way to further invest in the community we love, and we couldn’t wait to grow and change as entrepreneurs.”&nbsp;You come from a family of entrepreneurs. What does it mean to you to own this business?“It’s true, the entrepreneurial spirit runs deep in our family. My parents and uncle modeled what it meant to be entrepreneurs, pouring hard work and dedication into every professional venture. From their grocery store in downtown Mason to expanding their business portfolio with FunTyme Adventure Parks, seeing firsthand the fulfillment that comes from interacting with customers and making a difference in our community has continued to be what guides us.”“To own the Minuteman Press franchise here in Lansing means everything. This is the town where we live, have made our careers, and have raised our families. It’s exciting to continue to keep serving our community in this capacity. We are very grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to continue to help others promote the moments that matter most to them.” –Val OrlandoWhat are the top 3 reasons you chose Minuteman Press?<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>“Creative business with multiple revenue streams: Minuteman Press offers a wide variety of services businesses need and regularly reorder.&nbsp;</li><li>Support! Minuteman Press offers unmatched support in my opinion. The initial training, field support, marketing/Internet marketing, and proprietary management FLEX software is priceless.</li><li>Freedom with flexibility:&nbsp;The financial benefits and the flexibility of owning your own business along with the strength of being part of an international organization.”</li></ul>What is your message to your customers in Lansing? How is the transition going?&nbsp;“We’re proud to be a family-owned business in Lansing, a community that is so important to us. We continue to offer quality work, personalized service, fast turnaround, and commitment to our community. In addition to making good on our promises, we are looking forward to finding new and different ways to helping other businesses grow and thrive. The transition is going really well! Cary and Lyle have been such gracious partners during this time period offering their expertise. We’re really thankful for their help.”What has the training and support from Minuteman Press been like for you so far?&nbsp;“The multi-stage training and support from the first contact through store setup has been a great experience. The initial training focuses on equipping you with all the knowledge you need to manage and market your business. The onsite training shifts the focus to setting up and launching your Minuteman Press franchise location to be successful.&nbsp; Finally, the ongoing training provides the “face-to-face” support with my RVP and my Field Rep that makes Minuteman truly unique.” Why do you think printing remains so vital to businesses today?“Print is still an integral tool in communication. Whether it’s the promotion of a business or the celebration of a special moment, and everything in between, print matters. And we’re finding new and innovative ways to keep it fresh, while meeting the needs of our community.”&nbsp;What are your goals for the business?“Our goals are simple, but if done well, we will make a big impact:<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Provide quality products that help businesses grow.</li><li>Be Lansing’s go-to center for all printing and marketing needs.”</li></ul>Is there anything else you’d like to share?“We are really excited about the future of Minuteman Press in Lansing as we honor the foundation that Cary and Lyle Ritter have built in the community for over 13 years. The culture of Minuteman Press is rooted in family and mutual support for each other. I know that MPIHQ is invested in our success, and they care about us as people, not just as numbers. My brothers and I are looking forward to connecting and continuing to grow in Lansing.”Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

Minuteman Press franchise, Lansing, MI. Pictured L-R: Paul, Val, Cary, Lyle, and Greg.

Minuteman Press Franchise in Lansing, MI Passes Torch to New Ownership

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Jeff and Diana Merritt are the owners of the&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> in Salisbury, MD since March of 2010. Regional VP Bob Heimbuch presented Jeff and Diana with their Golden Minuteman Award celebrating 15+ years in business. Bob shares, “Through their continued marketing efforts and they're selfless approach to giving back to the community, the Merritts have enjoyed 15 years of continual growth.”In the following interview, Jeff shares his insights on community-building, generating customer referrals, and being a consistent business partner for clients of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/md/salisbury/">Minuteman Press in Salisbury</a>.Congrats on 15+ years in business! What are your keys to longevity and success?“Some of our keys to longevity are customer service, networking, and adapting to changes in the industry. In a time where outstanding customer service is becoming the exception and not the rule, we try to stay laser-focused on the best ways we can serve our customers. Networking is a great way to meet business owners that are looking for quality printing services and we are finding that more and more people want to shop local. For every problem, there is a solution, and we try to remain solution focused.”“We have a very high referral rate when it comes to acquiring new clients and getting repeat business. We are proud of the fact that our focus on customer service and doing right by our clients has been a key contributor to our success and longevity. We are consistent; we are reliable, and customers appreciate that more than anything.” -Jeff Merritt&nbsp;What changes have you’ve seen in 15 years?“The biggest change we’ve seen is the many different products that are available today vs. 15 years ago. Technology has changed quite a bit as well and we feel it is important to move and adapt with these changes. One thing that has remained consistent is that business-related printing remains a valuable commodity in our community for the past 15 years.”You are very active in your community. What does that mean to you to give back?“Being involved in the community is something we have always enjoyed. We started a nonprofit organization 18 years ago called Operation We Care, which supports our military and First Responders. We are members of many local civic groups and Chambers of Commerce. It is important to give back to the community and there are always areas of need. It’s a good feeling when you can help someone who might not be having their best day.”What is your background? What has the support from Minuteman Press meant to you?&nbsp;My background was in the service industry and business ownership/partnership of one type or another. Diana had some background in printing, so the transition was very easy for us. The support from Minuteman Press International has been excellent from the very beginning. We get calls from Bob Heimbuch to check and see how we are doing and anytime we have to reach out with a question or concern, it is handled immediately.”What are the biggest rewards of owning your business?“The biggest reward is building the business from where we started and getting it to where we are today. We have developed some amazing relationships along the way, and we are grateful for the opportunities we get and the people we meet.”What advice do you have for other owners?&nbsp;“I would say the best advice I can give is to show up every day and be ready to serve your customers. Use the resources that Minuteman Press has available and get out and network. People like to do business with people they know and respect. Get involved in your community, whether that is volunteering or starting a project of your own.”Is there anything else you’d like to share?“In closing, we are very happy we signed on with Minuteman Press. They have always been there to help when we needed it, and we look forward to what the future brings.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://images.1851franchise.com/fit-in/filters:format(webp)/story/editorarticle_editor-1765982351.jpg"></figure>Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

Minuteman Press franchise owners Jeff & Diana Merritt, Salisbury, MD.

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: 15 Years for Jeff & Diana Merritt

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Across Florida,&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> owners are proving that community commitment, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional service are the bedrocks of sustainable growth. From record-breaking achievements on the Treasure Coast to long-term success in Coral Springs and strategic expansion in Land O’ Lakes, these owners are building powerful momentum that reflects both dedication and innovation. Their stories highlight what happens when local leadership, strong B2B relationships, and the Minuteman Press system come together to create thriving, resilient businesses throughout the Sunshine State.Steve &amp; Carlene Brunk Celebrate Top Overall Performance Following Record-Breaking President’s Club 4-Peat!&nbsp;TREASURE COAST, Fla. – Along Florida’s Treasure Coast, Minuteman Press franchise owners Steve and Carlene Brunk have done it again, and again, and again… and again! In 2025, Steve and Carlene received their record-breaking fourth President’s Club Award for Minuteman Press in Jupiter, FL. They currently own five Minuteman Press centers in Vero Beach, Jupiter, Port Saint Lucie, Melbourne, and Stuart. Prior to their latest milestone in Jupiter, they were awarded President’s Club status for their locations in Boca Raton (which they later sold), Vero Beach, and Port Saint Lucie.It is no surprise then that the Brunk Family has been awarded Top Overall Performance for the Florida Region. RVP Larry Trimble presented the award to Shane, Carlene, and Steve Brunk at their Vero Beach location. Larry says, “I was honored to present the Top Overall Performance Award to Carlene and Steve along with their son Shane at their flagship Vero Beach center.”&nbsp;When speaking with Larry, Steve shared the following advice: “Invest in the Internet Marketing Program; be the first to follow up; get involved in local groups and organizations; and have a great staff across the board. These are the recipes to success that Steve has used to continue to grow his business across all five of his Minuteman Press franchises.”&nbsp;Prior to franchising, Steve worked in retail. He says, “I was working for a Hallmark card franchisee in their mall stores where you just wait for holidays to drive business. I knew nothing about printing, but it was something in which I could go outside the store and generate more business.&nbsp; I also loved the concept of reprint orders because it kept the customers coming back.”&nbsp;Asked about his accomplishments, Steve simply states, “I love the short reorder cycle of print, especially compared to retail. In retail, you sit in the store and wait for customers to come to you, and there are no assurances they will come back. With all of the Minuteman Press centers I’ve owned, the business model enables me to go out there and build my business while the reorders keep coming in. You can’t beat that.”Dave &amp; Jane Johnson Celebrate 15+ Years of Dedicated Community Service&nbsp;CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – Dave and Jane Johnson are the owners of Minuteman Press in Coral Springs, FL since May of 2009. RVP Larry Trimble presented Dave and team with their Golden Minuteman Award celebrating 15+ years in business. Larry shares, “Dave and Jane continue to grow and be successful by sticking to what works – providing high quality products and outstanding customer service.”Prior to franchising, Dave was the manager of an engineering group in a local technology company.&nbsp; “My company got sold offshore when the recession of 2008 hit and I was looking for a job with three kids in college.&nbsp; So, I decided to stop looking for a job and to be the boss.&nbsp;You must be willing to take some risks to be a boss and I was ready.”&nbsp;He continues, “I looked at dozens of deals and franchise agreements. Through it all, it turned out that of all the ones I reviewed, Minuteman Press had the fairest franchise agreement of them all.&nbsp; Then, the right chance to buy an existing printing business was presented to us and it was close to our home, so we went for it. Years later, we are very happy with the decision.”Dave adds, “I think what I enjoy about the B2B environment is that working with a business means really partnering with them and whatever it may be, from helping them reduce costs, improve sales it is fun to help them achieve their objectives. That is the reward for our hard work.”When asked about his biggest key to success and longevity in business, Dave reiterated the following piece of advice that has proven to be effective time and time again: “Respect your customers and treat them the way you’d like to be treated.”Ed Casagrande Talks Scaling Up Minuteman Press Franchise Business for Nearly 9 Years &amp; Counting…LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. – Ed Casagrande is the owner of Minuteman Press in Land O’ Lakes, FL since January of 2017. Ed is a member of the Minuteman Press International President’s Club and is celebrating nine years in business in January of 2026. RVP Larry Trimble shares, “Ed continues to grow his business by following the Minuteman Press system and providing the highest quality and service. He’s also made a key acquisition to keep his momentum going as well.”Prior to franchising, Ed shares, “I was born in Brazil, and my professional background is in engineering. Before moving to the US, I was involved in a large organization and was responsible for the entire South American region, with a team of 3,000 employees under my supervision. In 2015, the economy in Brazil went through a dramatic downturn, and I was laid off. My wife and I made the decision to move to the United States with our two children, and we began looking to purchase a business.”Ed continues, “At first, we looked at many options – from gas stations to dry cleaners and everything in between. I found an opportunity to purchase an existing franchise of Minuteman Press, and although I had no previous experience in the printing industry, I was drawn to the B2B concept that Minuteman Press offered. I am passionate about business and through my experience, I have a deep understanding of the inner workings of growing a business. Minuteman Press allowed me to turn that passion into an opportunity to help other businesses grow through various marketing concepts that we are able to help them achieve, which in turn has helped me grow my own business as well.”Following up on his most recent growth and success, Ed highlights his incredible business journey from 2017 to now: “When we launched our business in 2017, we didn’t just hope to grow – we planned for it. We set a bold target: 50% year-over-year growth. That wasn’t just a number pulled from thin air. It was backed by strategy,&nbsp;discipline, and constant recalibration. That target became our compass, guiding every decision from hiring to marketing to client outreach. The result? We grew from well below the average location when I first bought the business in 2017 to approximately $2.6 million to date in 2025.”What’s next for Minuteman Press in Land ‘O Lakes? Ed explains, Now, we’re entering Phase Two. Our new target is 25% annual growth, which we hope will take us to $10 million by 2030. It’s a different pace, but a deliberate one — designed to scale sustainably, strengthen operations, and deepen client relationships.”Ed continues, “Here’s what I’d share with any of my colleagues at Minuteman Press who are starting out or scaling up:<ul><li>Set clear, measurable goals:&nbsp;Don’t just say “I want to grow.” Define how much, by when, and what it will take.</li><li>Let numbers guide your strategy: Revenue targets, conversion rates, cost per acquisition—these aren’t just metrics, they’re decision-making tools.</li><li>Plan in phases. Growth isn’t linear: What works at $100K won’t work at $1M. Build your roadmap with milestones and pivot points.</li><li>Track relentlessly: What gets measured gets managed. Review your numbers monthly, quarterly, and annually. Adjust fast.”</li></ul>He concludes, “Entrepreneurship is a mix of art and science. The art is in the vision. The science is in the numbers. When you master both, you don’t just build a business – you build momentum.”Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

For <a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> owner Eric Shank, World Expo 2025 was a full-circle moment—both a celebration of his remarkable journey and a recognition of his outstanding success as the new owner of <a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/md/catonsville/">Minuteman Press in Catonsville, MD</a>. Shank’s career with Minuteman Press spans over a decade, from serving as a Field Representative for the Mid-Atlantic Region (2013–2019) to managing the Catonsville location for nearly six years before officially purchasing the business in May 2025.Within his first full month as owner, Eric hit record-breaking sales milestones, putting him on pace to join the President’s Club next year—an elite recognition for top-performing Minuteman Press franchisees. His dedication, leadership, and consistent growth earned him an award and a standing ovation at World Expo 2025, where franchise owners and corporate staff from around the world applauded his achievements.<h2>From Press Operator to Minuteman Press Franchise Owner</h2> Eric’s love for printing began in 1999 at a small quick print shop, where he learned to run offset presses and gained hands-on experience in every aspect of the business. “I quickly found a passion for the printing industry and all that goes with it,” he says. After honing his craft in both small and large print operations, he joined Minuteman Press International as a Field Representative in 2013, assisting franchise owners across the Mid-Atlantic Region.When the opportunity arose to join Minuteman Press in Catonsville as Store Manager in 2019, Eric embraced it wholeheartedly. “The owners were moving out of state and entrusted me to manage the entire business,” he recalls. “Over the next six years, we focused on top-quality products and expanding beyond digital print to include signage, apparel, and promotional products. We quadrupled sales since 2019.”<h2>A Dream Realized</h2> Purchasing the business earlier this year marked a defining moment in Eric’s professional journey. “It has been quite a journey—from a press operator to now owning my own business,” he says. “Working for the corporate office equipped me with the tools to run a successful printing and marketing company. My family and I are thrilled about what the future holds.”Breaking new sales records and achieving President’s Club-level performance are milestones Eric doesn’t take lightly. “To become part of that elite group of owners is an incredible honor,” he adds.<h2>Standing Ovation at World Expo</h2> At World Expo 2025, Eric’s story came full circle. Having once supported franchise owners from the corporate side, he now stood among them as a peer and success story. “Being presented with an award and receiving a standing ovation was overwhelming,” he says. “To be recognized by my colleagues, friends, and mentors was a moment I’ll cherish forever. The support from everyone—corporate staff, fellow owners, and the MPIHQ team—means the world to me.”<h2>Investing in Growth</h2> As both a former Field Rep and now a business owner, Eric values the resources and relationships available through Minuteman Press. He credits much of his recent success to embracing innovation and leveraging the Internet Marketing Program (SEM+). “Half of our Top 10 customers have come from Internet Marketing leads,” he explains. “It’s been our best platform for growth.”At the Expo, Eric also took advantage of the Vendor Show, purchasing two key pieces of equipment to increase production efficiency. “I left feeling more motivated than ever to take our sales to another level,” he says.<h2>Rooted in Community</h2> Minuteman Press in Catonsville serves a wide range of local clients, including nonprofits, schools, and churches. “We work hard to provide competitive pricing to those organizations,” Eric says. “By supporting their outreach and marketing efforts, we’re helping strengthen the community as a whole.”Education and training materials remain a staple of his business, while custom-branded apparel has become the fastest-growing segment. “Once you create a standard and build a reputation, word-of-mouth growth becomes unstoppable,” he adds.<h2>Support and Teamwork</h2> Eric credits his success not only to Minuteman Press International’s support system but also to his own dedicated staff. “Our local support team and Regional VP Bob Heimbuch have been tremendous resources,” he says. “As an owner, I’ve learned that surrounding yourself with good people is everything. My staff truly cares about our customers, and that makes all the difference.”<h2>Balancing Work and Family</h2> Beyond the numbers, business ownership has allowed Eric to create a healthy balance between work and family life. “I have three young children with busy schedules, and being able to have the flexibility to be present for them is priceless,” he says. “I also make sure my staff feels valued—because I know firsthand what it’s like to be undervalued. Taking care of my team is a top priority.”<h2>Advice for Fellow Owners</h2> Eric’s advice to other franchise owners is simple yet powerful: “Surround yourself with quality people. Never miss a deadline, never produce an inferior product, and never treat customers like numbers. When customers feel appreciated, trust builds—and sales follow.”Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities at <a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>

Elena Galkina and her son Vlad Galkin purchased their&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> in Santa Clara, CA in November of 2022. As they celebrate three years in business, Elena and Vlad are proud to have put in the work to grow their sales by building connections in the community, expanding their product lines, and relying on each other as well as their dedicated team along the way. To cap off their year in 2025, Elena and Vlad also won the Top Customer Service Award&nbsp;for their region.Congrats on 3 years in business! What does this milestone mean to you and your family?“Reaching the 3-year milestone means a great deal to both of us. When we acquired Minuteman Press in Santa Clara, we understood it would require a strong commitment to strengthening the business. For us, this milestone reflects how far we’ve come as a family team — improving our operations, expanding capabilities, and building strong relationships with our customers. It’s a reminder that growth comes from consistency, hard work, and a shared vision.”What is it like working together and running the family business?Elena:&nbsp;“Working with Vlad is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey — and also the funniest! He brings the perfect balance of logic, calm, and humor to the everyday aspects of running a print shop. I’m the creative, emotional one; he’s the analytical, quiet fixer. Together we function like CMYK — individually strong, but truly powerful only when all colors work together.Vlad constantly surprises me with his independence, responsibility, and how quickly he learns the technical side of production and equipment. And whenever a machine starts acting up, Vlad magically appears with a screwdriver like some kind of print shop superhero. Working together brought our relationship to a whole new level — we truly run this business as a team.”Vlad: “Working with my mom is always interesting! She brings the passion, the customer relationships, and the artistic eye, while I keep everything running smoothly. I’ve learned a lot from her: how to handle customers with kindness and enthusiasm, how to deliver on tight deadlines, and how to keep moving even when we’re tired. She teaches me people skills; I teach her IT skills — we balance each other pretty well.”What was your background before Minuteman Press?Elena: “Before coming to the USA, I spent over 15 years as a graphic designer in Russia and 5 years managing a design department. After moving to the USA in 2010, I tried everything — kids’ boutique owner, manager, then owner of a financial company… none of which felt like me. I was always searching for something that felt meaningful and creative again — and printing became that missing piece.”Vlad: “I worked in IT and customer service, and then one day the entire team at my last job was laid off. Perfect timing to reinvent myself. I’d always wanted to build something independently, and joining my mom at Minuteman Press felt like the right move. I haven’t regretted it once.”What are the top 3 reasons you chose Minuteman Press?&nbsp;“Our top 3 reasons we bought this business are: 1. Strong, proven business model — print is something stable, local, and needed by every business; 2. Support and training — coming from other industries, this was essential; and 3. The royalty incentive program&nbsp;— it’s rare to find a franchise that rewards your growth by reducing royalties. Huge motivation!”What has the training and support from Minuteman Press been like for you?&nbsp;“The training was extremely helpful, and the support has been amazing — from corporate to the local regional team. We never feel alone in the process. Once we got the hang of it, FLEX became one of our most powerful tools. It helps track orders, production, estimating, and keeps everything organized. We’re still learning (I think everyone is), but we appreciate it now more than ever.”What are your top 5 keys to your sales growth and success so far?&nbsp;<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>“Networking &amp; Referrals&nbsp;are the #1 way to build trust and attract new customers — that’s why we stay deeply involved in our local business and community groups.</li><li>Fast turnaround &amp; problem solving – we say “yes” as often as possible. Even impossible deadlines sometimes magically become possible.</li><li>High-quality design and customer care – customers trust our expertise, and they appreciate how much we guide them.</li><li>Expanding high-demand categories – apparel, large-format signage, and promotional products are growing fast.</li><li>Being truly local – in a world of online printers, being real humans who can catch file issues, fix designs, and deliver in person is our superpower!”</li></ul>What are your high-demand products and key growth areas? Why do you think printing remains so vital today?“Our high-demand products include&nbsp;business cards, brochures &amp; marketing collateral, banners &amp; signage, and apparel printing. Our key growth areas are labels &amp; packaging, event materials, and corporate gifts &amp; promotional products. No matter how digital the world becomes, every business still needs to show up in the physical world — with signs, packaging, apparel, trade shows, menus, event materials, and the list goes on. Print builds trust, credibility, and brand presence in a way that digital alone cannot.”How would you best describe your business community? How are you active in your community?“Santa Clara is one of the most diverse, entrepreneurial, and community-oriented areas in the country. We’re surrounded by small businesses, tech innovators, and nonprofits who constantly collaborate and help each other. We stay actively involved through BNI, Silicon Valley Central Chamber of Commerce, Santa Clara Rotary Club, NAWBO, Women’s Networking Alliance, and local community events.”What are the biggest rewards of owning your business?“First, we get to work together as a family. Not everyone can say they run a business with someone they enjoy seeing every day — but we can. We balance each other, we challenge each other, and we celebrate every win as a team. Second, there’s something incredibly rewarding about building something meaningful. We didn’t inherit this business — we built it with our own hands, ideas, long nights, and a lot of determination. Watching our business grow, evolve, and gain recognition reminds us that hard work truly pays off. We also love that our work directly helps other businesses grow. When our customers succeed, we feel like we’re a part of their story too. That’s a powerful feeling.”“The journey itself has shaped us. Every challenge has taught us something new; every setback pushed us to innovate; every victory made us stronger. Running this business has been one of the most meaningful and fulfilling experiences of our lives.” -Elena GalkinaWhat advice do you have for others?&nbsp;“Network like your business depends on it — because it does. Build relationships, not transactions. People buy from people they know and trust.”Is there anything else you’d like to share?“We’re proud to be a family-owned business that genuinely loves what we do. We believe in building relationships, being active in the community, and helping people grow — one print project at a time. We wouldn’t trade it for anything!”&nbsp;Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

John and Daryn Harrell are the owners of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nc/greensboro/">Minuteman Press in High Point, NC</a> since June of 2023. Prior to joining the&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> family, John and Daryn were part of the Subway franchise for 32 years. Since buying the business, they have consistently grown their sales. They also attended their first World Expo together in 2025.&nbsp;In the following interview, John talks about the transition from Subway and the foodservice industry to Minuteman Press and the printing industry; growing the business by serving a wide variety of clients in High Point; and attending the Minuteman Press International World Expo.What was your background before Minuteman Press?“I was a Subway franchisee for 32 years. Together with my wife, Daryn, and another couple with whom we shared a wonderful partnership, owned and operated 10 restaurants throughout the Triad area of North Carolina. Our close collaboration and shared commitment to excellence helped make us the largest and highest-volume franchise group in the region, which ultimately led a larger franchise organization to approach us about purchasing our locations.”Why did you change industries and choose Minuteman Press?“We decided to change industries because, after 32 years in food service, we were ready for a new challenge. The pandemic brought major changes to that industry, and we wanted to move into something with more stability and growth potential. Minuteman Press immediately stood out because it offered both. Jim, the previous owner, had built a strong, reputable business, which made the transition into a new field much smoother. As we researched the brand, we were impressed by the proven franchise model, the family-oriented culture, and the diverse revenue opportunities it offered. We also appreciated that each center could be customized to fit the owner’s strengths. For instance, while not every location focuses heavily on apparel, we’ve been able to grow that category by nearly 2,000% in just over two years.”What has the training and support from Minuteman Press been like for you?“The training was extremely thorough, and our support team, Dave Walton and Valerie Pinnock, are absolute superheroes. They’re always available and eager to help. Coming from outside the print industry, we have relied heavily on that guidance, and it’s been invaluable to our success.”How would you describe your business community, and how are you active in High Point?“We serve a highly diverse business community, partnering with clients that range from small non-profits to large corporations. We’ve also built strong relationships with local government departments and universities. We believe print remains essential to communication, branding, and awareness in today’s marketplace. It provides a tangible way to introduce yourself and your brand to the world in a way that digital media alone simply can’t replicate. We love the variety and perspective this brings to our work.”What was your experience like at World Expo 2025?&nbsp;“Daryn and I attended our first World Expo, and we are so grateful that we attended. When we came home, we were so energized by the Expo that we wrote a thank you letter to MPIHQ sharing our experience. One of the things we mentioned was how impressed we were at the level of care and attention to detail. We also felt like we were treated like family and not just another ‘royalty check’ in the system. That means everything and it showed us that Minuteman Press really sets the bar for how franchises should treat franchise owners.”What are the rewards of owning your business?“Business ownership is all we’ve ever known. Both Daryn and I grew up in family businesses – actually in competing businesses – and we were taught to take ownership of every job or opportunity we’ve been given. That mindset continues to guide us today.”Is there anything else you’d like to share?“Daryn&nbsp;and I are truly honored to be part of Minuteman Press. We believe there’s tremendous opportunity within this great brand and a freedom to create your own path to success, backed by a support system that treats you more like family than franchisees.”&nbsp;Learn more about #1 rated Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

Minuteman Press franchise owners John & Daryn Harrell, High Point, NC