Establishing an Allegra Print Mail franchise enabled Jan Anders not only to realize her dream of business ownership, but also use it as a platform to give back to her local community. She told us more about it…
Jan Anders’ journey as a franchisee of Allegra Marketing Print Mail is a testament to the value of perseverance, adaptability, and community engagement as well as the support systems of a well-established franchise business.
The story begins with a career transition that would ultimately lead her to become a successful business owner and community pillar in Milton, Ontario.
Her path to entrepreneurship started after a successful stint at Capital Records as a Data Control Manager. Seeking more family time, she took a position at a local offset print shop.
“Here I learned many aspects of the printing world, understanding stock weights, types of stock and many lessons on using the proper ink for delicate substrates,” she recalls.
The experience proved invaluable, laying the foundation for her future venture.
Recognizing the changing landscape of the printing industry, Jan took the plunge in 1990 and opened her own digital print shop in Milton, ON.
The prospect of doing it alone was daunting.
“Starting a business alone did feel overwhelming. If I were on my own, there wouldn’t be any outside support. If I had an accident, became ill, or was unable to work at any time there were no safety nets in place.”
It was that realization that led Jan to consider franchising as a viable option.
“Upon further research, becoming a member of a successful franchise seemed like the best route to follow,” she explains.
The decision to join a franchise network provided her with crucial support and resources.
“The franchisor had established partnerships with their bank of choice, strong equipment providers, negotiating skills with lessors, and a business plan that worked,” she says.
Starting a franchise
The early years of business ownership were not without challenges. Anders faced several hurdles, including financial management and staffing issues.
“Some challenges included managing cash flow, as expenses were higher than revenue in the first year, and finding reliable, trustworthy staff as the business grew and flourished,” she recalls.
As a female business owner, Jan also encountered unnecessary additional obstacles.
“Being a female business owner certainly has its challenges, such as not always being taken seriously by bank managers, making it difficult to get extended lines of credit. I often had to rely on personal credit cards to keep things covered,” she says.
Despite those challenges, her determination never wavered. “Balancing cash flow, keeping up with government requirements, and developing partnerships were additional hurdles. Despite these challenges, having a successful business in our community has made me and my family very proud.”
A significant moment came early on, in 1991 when her eldest son joined the company.
“This allowed us to focus on our respective strengths: mine in sales and administration, and his in technical, IT, and production.”
It proved crucial as the business adapted to the fast-emerging digital market.
“By the mid-nineties the digital world was evolving very quickly, through my son’s knowledge and ability , we were able to transition into that market quickly by investing in new equipment and developing a new strategy for selling print-on-demand solutions,” she says.
Adapt and survive
Such adaptability has been a hallmark of the Allegra franchise’s success.
“As things change, we work very hard at focusing on different offerings and expand into those segments if clients are looking for these services. Our business is strongly developed by the needs of our clients.
“We decided very early that selling quality and service to our clients was what we wanted to do. Clients have come to expect this from us and they have become loyal for these reasons,” she explains.
The franchise model has provided ongoing support throughout the lifetime of the business.
“Over the years, the franchise has aided in investment decisions, negotiating with vendors, providing marketing materials, and offering information on government programs and industry standards,” says Anders.
The support network extends beyond the franchisor to also include fellow franchise owners.
“Over the years, it has been my pleasure to provide local contact information to fellow franchise members when they are sourcing new items. We have been working closely with Mississauga, St. Catharines, Guelph, Cambridge, Pickering, and Vaughan owners to support each other.”
Franchising in the community
One of the most personally rewarding aspects of the business has been the way it has provided Jan with a way to give back to the community.
“Maintaining a strong connection to the local community has been crucial,” she underlines.
The business supports various local events and organizations, providing printed materials . Community involvement is extensive and impactful.
“Our business supports multiple community events and organizations, such as Milton’s Film Festival, Townsend Smith’s Hospice Foundation, Milton Oldstar’s Hockey Club, Community Living North Halton (CLNH) Annual, and Milton Autism’s Golf Tournaments.”
The financial impact has been substantial as well.
“Over the past 40-plus years, through the Milton Oldstar’s Hockey Club, we have raised $760,000 for equipment for the Milton District Hospital, $104,000 in annual bursaries to graduating Milton High School scholars and athletes, and $32,500 for an elevator installation at the Milton Memorial Arena to aid the disabled,”
Anders says.
The commitment to the community extends beyond her business. In 2016, she joined the Board of Directors for Community Living North Halton, where she currently serves as the 1st Vice President.
“During my term I have served on the Bonspiel Committee, Monthly Home Visits, nominating CLNH for two successful donations received from 100 Women who care – Milton Chapter,” she says.
Looking to the future, Jan remains committed to her business principles and community involvement.
“We plan to continue supporting our community and expanding our business offerings based on client needs. Our focus remains on providing quality and service, adapting to market changes, and fostering strong client relationships.”
From overcoming initial challenges to adapting to technological changes and giving back to her community, Jan Anders’ journey as a franchisee exemplifies the potential of franchise ownership when combined with dedication, adaptability, and a strong sense of community responsibility.
