Minuteman Press International

John and Daryn Harrell are the owners of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nc/greensboro/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=minuteman-press-franchise-review-from-food-to-print-in-high-point-nc-2730777" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Minuteman Press in High Point, NC</a> since June of 2023. Prior to joining the&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=minuteman-press-franchise-review-from-food-to-print-in-high-point-nc-2730777" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">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/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=minuteman-press-franchise-review-from-food-to-print-in-high-point-nc-2730777" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://minutemanpressfranchise.com</a>&nbsp;

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

Minuteman Press Franchise Review: From Food to Print in High Point, NC

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Minuteman Press franchise owner John Harrell grows printing business in High Point, NC, talks transition from foodservice to print industry and attending World Expo.

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Own a Minuteman Press Franchise

Dennis and Debbie Murray are the owners of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/tx/galveston/">Minuteman Press in Galveston, Texas</a> since February of 2024. As they celebrate two years in business, Dennis talks about making a career change from electrical engineering and the oil and gas industry to printing, why he chose to own a&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">Minuteman Press franchise</a>, and growing the business.Prior to Minuteman Press, Dennis shares, “I started my career as an electrical engineer and eventually transitioned into executive corporate compliance within the oil and gas industry. My wife Debbie owned and operated her private practice as a physical therapist specializing in balance and neurological care. We chose Minuteman Press for the business hours (work life balance away from corporate demands – hours, travel, work demands, etc.); Minuteman Press’ track record and reputation in franchising and the printing industry; and leveraging previous printing and computer/software experience I had when I worked for USA Today while going to college.”The training and support were huge factors in helping Dennis feel comfortable with the business. He says, “The initial training helped us get a quick start in the business. The training included classroom training via Zoom and then hands-on setup by the field representatives at our location.&nbsp;Both were invaluable to our early and ongoing success.&nbsp;The support team at Minuteman Press is amazing.&nbsp;There has never been a time when our issues were not resolved, or our questions were not completely answered. Minuteman Press is always available to help us.”On growing the business, Dennis shares, “I've been running this business for two years now, and I truly believe my success comes down to a few key things. First and foremost, it's all about adding real value to every customer, making sure they get more than they expect. You've got to separate yourself from the competition; otherwise, you're just another option. Referrals have been huge for us; they're such a crucial part of our multi-pronged marketing strategies.Dennis continues, “Repeat business is absolutely a key factor; loyal customers are what keep the doors open. We've been fortunate to take advantage of this close, tight community around us, where word travels fast. Positive feedback from clients keeps us motivated and brings in new faces.”He adds, “Having a graphic designer right here on site has made a world of difference in keeping our branding sharp and consistent. I always tell my team to take the time for outstanding customer service and to go that extra mile; it pays off every time. And none of it would work without great teamwork, trusting each other, supporting one another, and growing through our mistakes. That's the foundation of everything we've achieved here.”Dennis concludes, “As with any other business, what you put into it is what you get out of it.&nbsp;We work hard but we couldn’t do it without the support from the local and corporate teams, a system to manage our business (Minuteman Press FLEX software), trade vendors that Minuteman Press provides, and brand recognition.”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;&nbsp;

Minuteman Press franchise team, Galveston, Texas.

Dennis and Debbie Murray own the Minuteman Press franchise in Galveston, Texas. Dennis talks about making a career change from electrical engineering to printing.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Dennis Murray Talks Career Change to Printing in Galveston, TX

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Daniel Hsu is the owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ca/covina/">Minuteman Press in Covina, CA</a> since February of 2025. As he celebrates one year in business, Daniel shares his journey to Minuteman Press as well as his thoughts on the training and ongoing support provided by&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com">Minuteman Press International</a>. He also talks about attending his first Minuteman Press World Expo last summer and what it means to support local businesses in Covina.Journey to Minuteman Press:&nbsp;“I was actively searching for a business opportunity when I came across Dan Byers’ listing for the Covina location. What ultimately sold me were two key things: the incredible level of support offered by the franchisor—especially in hiring, marketing, and acquisitions; and the strong sense of community among Minuteman Press owners.”Training &amp; Support:&nbsp;“Minuteman Press International Regional VP Dan Byers and Area Manager Damien Neitzke have been incredibly understanding and accommodating every step of the way. We also had the chance to meet many of the Southern California owners at the World Expo, which was an amazing experience. The energy, encouragement, and willingness to share advice was truly motivating for us.”World Expo:&nbsp;“If I had known how impactful the World Expo would be, it might have been the deciding factor in choosing Minuteman Press! It far exceeded our expectations. My wife and I gained tremendous value from the seminars, vendor exhibits, and—most importantly—the networking opportunities. Talking with experienced owners and exchanging ideas was incredibly inspiring.”Marketing: “The Internet Marketing Program has been the most effective by far. We’re only a few months in and we’ve already seen noticeable growth. That said, we’re also beginning to ramp up our Direct Marketing efforts, which we just ramped up in September. We are excited to see where it takes us.”Supporting Local Businesses:&nbsp;“We feel like we are just getting started as we focus on building relationships locally. One thing I’m proud of is how we’ve started to win over our local City Office. After stepping in to handle a few tight, same-day turnaround jobs, they’ve been coming back with more projects. That kind of trust is something we’re excited to build on.”Final Thoughts:&nbsp;“The level of support is unlike anything I’ve seen with other franchises. What really stands out is how personal it feels; you’re not treated like just another number. We’re referred to as owners, and they always call us by name. That sense of belonging and recognition means a lot. Although we’re still new, we have high expectations for our future growth, and we’re confident we’ll get there with the continued support of the Minuteman Press community. We’ve seen so many success stories among owners, and we’re excited to be part of this journey.”For more information on Minuteman Press in Covina, CA, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ca/covina/">https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ca/covina/</a>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>

Minuteman Press, Covina, CA. Pictured L-R: Daniel Hsu, Adriana Hsu, and Christine McBurney.

Daniel Hsu is the owner of Minuteman Press in Covina, CA since February of 2025. Daniel shares his journey to Minuteman Press and why he chose franchising.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Daniel Hsu Achieves One Year in Covina

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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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In February of 2022, Tamika and Martin Neal opened the doors of the brand-new Minuteman Press franchise in Libertyville, IL. Four years since their grand opening, Tamika and Martin have successfully built their business from the ground up. How did they do it?&nbsp;In the following interview, Tamika and Martin share their journey to Minuteman Press, how they’ve grown the business, giving back to the community, and why this journey to entrepreneurship means so much to their family.What does this four-year milestone mean to you?“Reaching four years in business is a significant accomplishment for our family and our company. We opened our Minuteman Press center in Libertyville, Illinois, as a brand-new location in a highly competitive print market. Building a business from the ground up, in a community with no existing relationships, required resilience, consistency, and a clear vision for the type of company we wanted to build.We also launched during the pandemic and welcomed a new baby during that same season of life. Balancing business ownership and parenthood during uncertain times stretched our capacity in unexpected ways. Those challenges ultimately strengthened both our leadership skills and our partnership. Growing steadily through those early obstacles reinforced our belief in discipline, faith, and hard work. We take pride in the reputation we have established and the loyal client base we have built over the past four years.”How have you accomplished consistent growth since opening?“Our growth has been intentional and strategic from the very beginning. We committed to focusing on three foundational pillars: exceptional customer service, high-quality production, and consistent visibility in the community. For example, every order is handled with careful attention to detail, clear communication, and proactive problem-solving. In the print industry, small details have a significant impact. File preparation, paper selection, color accuracy, and finishing options all influence the final result. By educating customers and guiding them through these decisions, we ensure that their materials are not only printed correctly but also positioned to function as effective marketing tools.Marketing and networking have been key drivers of our expansion. Through our participation in the Internet Marketing Program, we’ve steadily increased our investment in step with revenue growth. Aligning marketing efforts with sales performance helps maintain momentum, strengthen brand visibility, and support sustained growth. A strong online presence also ensures that when businesses search for printing and direct mail services, our company stands out as a trusted local resource.Beyond digital visibility, we remain active members of two BNI chapters and our local Chambers of Commerce. Regular networking events and scheduled one-to-one meetings allow us to strengthen relationships within the business community. We also execute targeted direct mail campaigns to businesses in specific industries. As printing professionals, we believe in demonstrating the power of print by integrating it strategically with digital marketing to create consistent brand exposure. In addition, we intentionally practice gratitude by including thank you cards with every order, sending holiday greetings, and recognizing top customers. Customer retention is just as important as acquisition, and genuine appreciation builds long-term loyalty.”Specifically, what are the keys to your sales growth?“Several key factors have contributed to our growth. We’ve stayed committed to producing consistent, high-quality work, supported by a disciplined networking approach that keeps us connected with local business leaders. Continued investment in both digital and print marketing has also helped us maintain strong visibility within the community.These efforts work hand in hand with the customer experience we aim to deliver. Completing projects ahead of schedule, offering complimentary delivery, and keeping the ordering process streamlined all reinforce the reliability our clients expect. Our involvement in community organizations and sponsorships further strengthens brand recognition and trust.”What was your background before Minuteman Press?“Before Minuteman Press, Martin served as a police officer, and Tamika worked in education before moving into real estate. Those roles taught us discipline, clear communication, and strong relationship-building skills, which now play a major part in how we operate and grow our business. In addition to our primary careers, we operate a real estate investment company focused on renovating properties in low-income neighborhoods. Our mission has been to provide quality housing and contribute positively to the communities we serve.”What are the top reasons you chose Minuteman Press?“We chose Minuteman Press because we were ready for a career transition and wanted to build something together after years of working opposite schedules. The opportunity to combine entrepreneurship with a structured support system was highly appealing. The comprehensive training program, experienced field representatives, and proven operational systems gave us confidence as first-time owners in the print industry. Our Field Representative, Tom Ganoe, has offered valuable guidance in both marketing strategy and production decisions. Our Regional VP, Steve Szymanski, provides practical operational insight that has helped us navigate challenges with clarity and confidence. Additionally, the strength of the established brand reputation, the approved vendor network, and access to predesigned marketing resources have allowed us to operate efficiently and strategically from the start.”What has the training and support from Minuteman Press been like for you?“The training and support have been reliable and well-structured. The FLEX software tutorials make it easy to find answers quickly and keep our operations running smoothly. In addition to the technical resources, having access to advisors who understand both print production and business management has helped shorten the learning curve. Altogether, the combination of technical guidance and practical business support has played an important role in our development and steady growth.”How would you best describe your business community? How are you active?“Libertyville has a very supportive business community where relationships truly matter. We stay active by participating in both our local and county Chambers of Commerce and by being members of BNI. Being part of these groups has helped us build meaningful relationships that extend well beyond quick introductions. These ongoing networking efforts strengthen trust and help us build genuine relationships with other local business owners. Strong relationships have been essential to our success, because clients naturally prefer to work with people they know, like and trust.”What are your high-demand products, and how did you build your client base from first orders to repeat business?“Digital printing and direct mail represent our highest demand services. We identified these areas by analyzing FLEX reports and studying consistent purchasing trends among clients. Rather than dividing attention equally across every product category, we focus marketing efforts on services that deliver the greatest demand and measurable value.Collaboration and education are also central to our process. We guide clients on mailing formats, paper selection, and effective calls to action so that their printed materials produce meaningful results. Lastly, quality control remains a top priority. If an error occurs, we take full responsibility and resolve it promptly. That level of accountability fosters long-term trust and encourages repeat business.”What are the biggest rewards of owning your business?“One of the most meaningful professional rewards has been earning referrals from clients. When someone recommends our business, it reflects their confidence in our work and the way we operate. It’s also gratifying to see the materials we produce contribute to successful events and marketing efforts throughout the community. On a personal level, business ownership has strengthened our ability to work as a team and pushed us out of our comfort zones. We’ve learned to lean into our individual strengths—Martin leading operations and production, and Tamika focusing on marketing and community partnerships. This is when our business operates most effectively.”What advice do you have for others?“Keep your marketing simple and consistent. Commit fully to the Internet Marketing Program and approach networking with clear intention. Purchasing decisions are built on trust, so focus on building relationships before expecting results. Effective networking also requires structure—follow-up communication, an organized database, scheduled one-to-one meetings and a mindset centered on providing value. When relationships are built with consistency and purpose, long-term growth naturally follows.”What is next for your business?“We’ve outgrown our current space and are actively searching for a larger location. This expansion will strengthen our direct mail services and allow us to invest in additional mail‑processing equipment to handle larger campaigns. The added space will also improve workflow, increase production efficiency, and create opportunities to introduce new services that align with our long-term vision.As we grow operationally, we remain equally focused on expanding our community impact. We are committed to giving back and strengthening our support of nonprofit organizations in meaningful and sustainable ways. Our goal is to continue building a business that not only serves clients with excellence but also contributes positively to the Libertyville community.”&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>

Minuteman Press franchise owners Martin & Tamika Neal, Libertyville, IL.

Minuteman Press franchise owners Tamika and Martin Neal have successfully built their business from the ground up since their grand opening in 2022. How did they do it?

Minuteman Press Franchise Owners Tamika & Martin Neal Celebrate 4 Years in Libertyville, IL

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<a href="https://minuteman.com">Minuteman Press International</a>, the world’s largest and #1 rated printing and marketing services franchise, announces the launch of&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/products/custom-shop-products/">Personalize it!</a>,&nbsp;a new print-on-demand program that allows customers to create and order custom products with no minimums required. Customers can choose from over 450 available products and Personalize it!&nbsp;right from their screens.“Creating custom products through Minuteman Press has never been more seamless,” says Nick Titus, President, Minuteman Press International. “We are thrilled to give our customers and franchise owners innovative tools that make it easier than ever to design, order, and deliver high-quality printed products that help businesses grow.”Minuteman Press International has also been awarded the 2026 #1 printing and marketing franchise ranking by&nbsp;Entrepreneur Magazine. The&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a>&nbsp;team has now achieved this #1 rating for an impressive 35 years and 23 years in a row. In 2026, Minuteman Press ranks as #49 on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 listing.On this achievement, Nick shares, “Earning this #1 ranking 35 times and for 23 consecutive years is only possible through teamwork at every level. From our franchise owners who serve their local business communities to our regional support teams and World Headquarters staff, this honor represents a shared commitment to excellence and collective success.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://images.1851franchise.com/fit-in/filters:format(webp)/story/editorarticle_editor-1770043441.jpg"></figure>Introducing Personalize it!&nbsp;No Minimums. Just Memories Made to Order.Preparing for a client presentation or community event often requires just a handful of branded items, enough to make a professional impression without overcommitting. Yet, many print providers continue to enforce high minimum order requirements, leaving businesses with a choice between overspending or going without. This common frustration of wasted time, money, and inventory is exactly what Personalize it! is designed to solve. With&nbsp;Minuteman Press, customers can order the exact quantity they need when it’s needed, all with the same quality and care that businesses have trusted for decades.The same flexibility applies to individuals seeking meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts. Whether it’s a custom hoodie featuring a favorite family photo or a mug designed with a personal message, Personalize it! enables anyone to create thoughtful, high-quality items without the burden of bulk orders or long wait times. The result is a simple, fast, and accessible way to transform ideas and memories into tangible keepsakes.Print-on-Demand with Minuteman PressBacked by the experienced local design, printing, and promotional products experts at Minuteman Press, your personalized items are just three quick steps away:<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Go to&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/products/custom-shop-products/">Personalize it! on Minuteman.com</a> to access our premium design studio with expanded features and easy customization.</li><li>Choose your product category and click on any of our 450+ products to get started. Explore t-shirts, mugs, bags, wall art, and hundreds of additional options ready for your unique touch.</li><li>Personalize with precision using our free online design maker, preview your masterpiece in real-time, and order as few as one item, delivered fast.</li></ul> Why Minuteman Press Custom Products?Order the custom products you love, with no minimums required. Customize each item to match your brand or style and let Minuteman Press do the rest. Perfect for family events, group outings, businesses, and individuals looking to bring their visions to life. Personalize it! and place your order today!<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Choose timely &amp; trendy products&nbsp;</li><li>Personalize it!&nbsp;to fit your brand</li><li>Perfect for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts</li><li>Versatile items for all ages &amp; events</li><li>Personalized gifts for family &amp; friends</li><li>Work with local experts who care about your order</li></ul>For instant access to our Personalize it! platform, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/products/custom-shop-products/">https://minuteman.com/us/products/custom-shop-products/</a>&nbsp;For more information about Minuteman Press products and services, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com">https://minuteman.com</a>&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 International launches Personalize it! print-on-demand program with no minimums.

Minuteman Press International launches Personalize it! print-on-demand program; earns #1 Entrepreneur Ranking in Printing & Marketing Services Category.

Minuteman Press International Earns #1 Printing Franchise Ranking

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In September of 1985, Al and Vivian Calis signed their agreement to purchase their&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> in Washington, DC. When they officially opened for business in February of 1986, Al and Vivian’s son Mark Calis was hired as their first employee. 40 years after he first joined the business working in bindery press operating, Mark is proud to still be carrying the family’s legacy forward to new heights today in 2026.&nbsp;Regional VP Bob Heimbuch presented Mark with the Special Achievement Award commemorating 40 years in business for the Calis Family. Bob says, “This incredible achievement is very well-earned by Mark, his family, and his team. I congratulate Mark on his continued success.”&nbsp;In the following interview, Mark offers his own personal reflections on joining the business in 1986, the evolution of the business and the printing industry, and why keeping customers happy never gets old.What does it mean to you to reach 40 years in business?&nbsp;“I’m honestly amazed by how much our industry has changed over the past 40 years—and proud of how we’ve adapted along the way to stay relevant. We started as a purely offset print shop, using blue-line proofs (which were literally blue lines), pricing jobs on a Tandy TRS-80—our very first ‘computer’—and doing cut-and-paste work entirely by hand. Everything was manual. When I look at where we are today, it feels like a lifetime ago. Having the opportunity to witness and be part of that evolution firsthand has been both humbling and incredibly rewarding.”When did you join the family business? What do you remember most from those early days?“My parents started the business in 1986 after my father retired as an airline pilot, and I was their first employee. I began in bindery, which at the time was entirely manual work. From there, I learned to run a press—the Multilith 1250—and took on whatever tasks needed to be done. I would come to the shop after school to help out and once I started driving, I handled deliveries as well. Those were truly the early years. After spending a few years away and graduating from college, I returned to the family business.At that point, sales weren’t strong, and my dad offered me a position based on 100% commission. I was young and naïve, so I hit the streets to make a living. It took time to land paying customers, and that experience taught me to appreciate every single print order. My first year, I made just under $16,000. I’ve never forgotten that, and it’s why I believe owners must stay involved in selling—even after 40 years in business.”How has your business evolved over the years? What are you most excited about today?“Technology has transformed nearly every aspect of our business, making us more efficient and opening new opportunities—from marketing and advertising to pricing, prepress, and digital printing. Watching the cycle of technology never gets old. Seeing a booklet coming out of a machine fully saddle-stitched, trimmed, and ready to box still brings a sense of nostalgia and pride."How have your customers grown with you over the past 40 years?“Over the years, we’ve worked with many organizations that began with just a few employees and grew into much larger operations. Seeing them stay loyal to us while remembering where they started has meant a great deal. Growing together builds lifetime relationships. Being located on Capitol Hill has also given me the opportunity to work with many politicians. There are moments when I go home, turn on the national news, and see one of our printed pieces on TV. That never fails to bring a smile to my face.”After 40 years, what everyday moments still bring you joy inside the shop?“Happy customers. Watching someone’s idea go from concept to finished product never gets old. Often, a new customer comes to us in a panic because another printer couldn’t meet a deadline or a shipment was lost. Being able to step in, pull off what feels like a miracle, and turn that customer into a long-term relationship is incredibly rewarding.”“Our motto has always been customer service, customer service, customer service. We truly live and die by our customers.” –Mark CalisIf you could talk to your younger self, what would you want to say?“It hasn’t always been easy. Business isn’t always a bed of roses. But if you stick with it, work hard, and treat your customers and employees with kindness and respect, this business can reward you tremendously. I’d say, ‘Good job for sticking with it—even on the tough days.’”What advice do you have for other owners looking to replicate your success and longevity?“Stay with it. Follow the program. Take full advantage of everything Minuteman Press World HQ and your local representatives offer. Also, my advice is to always go above and beyond customer expectations—it pays off tenfold. Tough days come and go for everyone, but if you’re honest and trustworthy, customers will recognize that and reward you with loyalty.”Is there anything else you’d like to share?“Overall, it has been a great ride. We started with Roy Titus, then worked with Bob Titus, and now with Nick and Jackie Titus. The Titus family has always been incredibly supportive, and for that we are deeply grateful. A special Thank You goes to Mike Jutt, who has always been a guiding light.I’ve met so many great people—both at MPIHQ and fellow owners—who have helped us along the way. Without Minuteman Press, we would not be where we are today. This business has allowed my wife, our kids, and me to live a good life, and for that, we are truly thankful.”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 Owner Mark Calis proudly displays his 40-Year Special Achievement Award.

Minuteman Press franchise owner Mark Calis celebrates over 40 years of family business ownership in Washington, DC, awarded Special Achievement Award.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Mark Calis Celebrates 40 Years in DC

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AMHERST, N.Y. &amp; BUFFALO, N.Y. –&nbsp;Following an aggressive growth through acquisitions strategy,&nbsp;<a href="https://minutemanpressfranchise.com/">Minuteman Press franchise</a> owner Wes Froebel has achieved President’s Club status. Wes first purchased Minuteman Press in Buffalo, NY in November of 2017, and has owned his second center in Amherst, NY since September of 2020. For the year ending 2025, Wes achieved over $1 million in gross sales at his Amherst location.At&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ny/williamsville/">Minuteman Press in Amherst</a>, Wes acquired two independent printing businesses that helped him more than double his gross sales in 2025 and reach the President’s Club mark. This included a record sales month in September of 2025 following those key acquisitions. Wes also completed another acquisition for&nbsp;<a href="https://minuteman.com/us/locations/ny/buffalo/">Minuteman Press in Buffalo</a> to further expand his footprint and grow his client base.Wes shares, “We were fortunate to find three independent print shops whose owners were ready to retire, and I took the opportunity to acquire all of them. Adding their clients to our book of business has significantly increased our sales volume and expanded our team. We also moved into a larger facility to accommodate new equipment and additional staff. We are now operating with 5,600 square feet and may need to expand into the neighboring suite in the coming months.”“Each acquisition is unique, but overall, we’ve gained high-profile clients, talented staff members, and equipment we didn’t previously have. Another major benefit is cost consolidation. By merging facilities, we reduce total rent, utilities, duplicate equipment leases, and in some cases overlapping payroll—typically the retiring owner’s salary.” –Wes FroebelHere is a recap of the three acquisitions Wes completed in 2025:May 2025: Acquisition of 40-year business Minute Print from retiring owner Penny Cutler.&nbsp;At the time of the acquisition, Penny shared, “Joining the Minuteman Press network provides us with access to cutting-edge technology and a wider range of marketing solutions. This is a win-win for our loyal customers and our dedicated team.”July 2025: Acquisition of 18-year business Caboodle Printing from retiring owner Gary Wodarczak.&nbsp;Caboodle Printing has been listed along with Minuteman Press on the Business First's Largest Buffalo Printers List, making this a key acquisition for Wes. At the time of the acquisition, Wes said, “Caboodle Printing has a long-standing reputation for quality and customer service, and we are thrilled to welcome their team and expertise.” Gary echoed Wes’ sentiments, saying, "This is a win-win for our loyal customers and our dedicated team."August 2025: Acquisition of 38-year business XOAR Communications from retiring owner Matthew Taylor.&nbsp;Completing his third acquisition in four months, Wes said, “I’ve always been in growth mode. XOAR’s reputation for quality and customer care aligns perfectly with our mission.” For his part, Matthew added, “We’re gaining access to Minuteman Press' innovative technology and additional products and services, all while maintaining the personalized service our clients have come to trust. It’s a win-win for everybody.”Value of AcquisitionsWes says, “Many clients are loyal to their current printer because they’re accustomed to the process, pricing, quality, and service. Winning new clients from competitors can be difficult unless those competitors make mistakes. By acquiring a business, you inherit established relationships, files, and pricing history, which helps retain the majority of clients. Additionally, we can offer more products and services than many independent shops—such as apparel, promotional items, and wide-format printing—which allows us to grow sales with acquired clients simply by expanding their options.”Wes also gives credit to now-retired Regional VP and Minuteman Press legend Jim Galasso, saying, “I want to give credit to our former RVP Jim Galasso for his amazing support and help in reaching out to printers in our market to see if they wanted an exit strategy. Jim was a huge help in these negotiations.”Top 3 Keys to Smooth AcquisitionsBased on his experience and knowledge gained from these acquisitions, Wes shares the following advice:<ol><li>“Ensure the selling owner stays on for a transition period, if feasible.&nbsp;I present it to clients as a merger rather than a buyout, which reassures them that most things will remain the same. I also keep pricing and services consistent at first to minimize disruption while building relationships.</li><li>Conduct thorough due diligence. Make sure client databases and art files are organized and accessible. Often, critical information is in the seller’s head rather than in a proper database or spreadsheet.</li><li>Plan staffing, carefully.&nbsp;Even if you intend to retain all employees, some may not want to continue under new leadership, relocate, or may choose to retire. Without proper planning, you could end up short-staffed.”</li></ol>Quick HitsBackground: “I spent 25 years in technology sales before deciding to buy a business. I was drawn to Minuteman Press because their franchise model isn’t overly restrictive, allowing me to leverage my own experience and strengths within their framework. Each Minuteman Press location is unique—we’re not cookie-cutter businesses forced to follow a rigid handbook. I also appreciate that royalties are capped, which makes the model more sustainable.”Growing the Business, Aside from Acquisitions: “We invest significantly in Minuteman’s Internet Marketing Program, which makes it easy to track new client inquiries. We also participate in networking groups, send bi-monthly email blasts, and maintain an active presence across social media platforms. Clients can’t buy from you if they don’t know you exist, so we focus on visibility and consistently remind clients of the “other” services we provide beyond traditional printing—such as laser engraving, signage, apparel, and promotional goods.”Advice for Others: “Having a strong staff is critical—it allows you to work on&nbsp;your business rather than in&nbsp;it. If you’re running presses, designing, or handling all customer service yourself, you’re not out selling or pursuing acquisitions. Also, don’t buy new equipment until you have a solid market for it. Spending $30,000 or more on a machine that rarely gets used doesn’t help your business.”Final Thoughts:&nbsp;“We are actively exploring additional acquisitions in 2026, as several competitors are nearing retirement.”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 Owner Wes Froebel at his center in Amherst, NY.

Minuteman Press franchise owner Wes Froebel drives growth through strategic acquisitions in Upstate New York. Wes owns Minuteman Press in Amherst and Buffalo, NY.

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