HALIFAX—Fastsigns is expanding with six centres across the country. The new sign, graphic and visual communications shops will sprout in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Ontario and Alberta.

Under a four-unit agreement, franchisee Philip Zakem and three partners will open a Fastsigns in Halifax later in 2013. In 2014, the team will convert their independent Beacon Sign business in Charlottetown, PE, into a Fastsigns franchise, and launch the two remaining centres in New Brunswick, one in Saint John and the other in Moncton.

Zakem said in a release that he chose to link with Fastsigns because of the company's brand recognition, support system and knowledge. "Partnering with Fastsigns was a strategic decision to help us reach our long-term goal of expanding our business across the Maritimes," Zakem said.

Fastsigns also signed one-off deals for new centres in Toronto and Calgary. According to Mark Jameson, senior vice president of franchise support and development, the company expects to open at least five more Canadian locations next year and is looking for a master franchisee to oversee growth in Quebec.

The new centres add to Fastsigns' current stable of 22 locations in the country. Worldwide, the Texas-based company has more than 540 locations offering banners, building signs, yard signs, point-of-purchase signs, vehicle wraps, promo products and more.