News Release

Safeguard, a leading print, promotional products and business services distribution enterprise, had the pleasure of hosting members of the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) during a recent study-tour in the Southwest United States. The FCA chose to visit Safeguard due to the brand's triumphant success in business development and aggressive revenue growth since implementing their Business Mergers and Acquisitions (BAM) Program in 2008.

"This is a very big step for Safeguard, as we're beginning to become internationally recognized as a leader in business and franchising," said R. Scott Sutton, VP of Franchise Development for Safeguard. "We were honored to host the FCA and discuss effective strategies and business initiatives to assist international markets with their successes in the future."

The FCA delegates included Michael Paul, Chairman of the FCA and CEO of Pack & Send; Michael Renwick, Managing Director of Hotondo Homes; Jimmy Salter, Director of Salty Rooster restaurants; and Dave Hundt, CEO of EnVie Fitness. The tour was led by Simon Heggen of the IFA.

Upon arrival to Safeguard's corporate headquarters, the group of five Australian representatives had a proper Texas-sized welcome, complete with themed souvenirs, cowboy hats and a barbecue brisket lunch with all the “fixins." In addition to experiencing true southern hospitality, the FCA's U.S. tour objectives included broadening their knowledge of American businesses and learning about innovations in information technology for implementation in the Australian market.

The FCA elected Safeguard as a business to spotlight during their visit due to the brand's great success in the United States. This success can be attributed to Safeguard's focus on providing expansion, conversion and acquisition opportunities to allow smaller printing brands to grow their businesses with the support and backing of a nationally recognized brand.

"Embracing change and learning from our global counterparts is one way to stay on top of industry trends and elevate any business to the next level," said Sutton. "It was a fun and productive time to talk shop and provide insight to our friends down under."

ABOUT SAFEGUARD
For more than 57 years, Safeguard, through its network of dedicated distributors, has been providing the products, services and expertise needed by organizations and businesses to help them grow and succeed. Through innovation, dedication and a commitment to quality and integrity, Safeguard has transformed itself from a small check-printing business to a fully diversified business solutions enterprise. Safeguard distributors enjoy a proven and efficient business model that provides them with the opportunity to achieve professional and personal success.

Source: Safeguard Business Systems

Nicki Diller
Safeguard Communications Manager
214.905.4776