A handful of franchises in the promotional products and print industries are getting recognition for their DEI efforts.

AlphaGraphics (asi/373000), Allegra Marketing Print Mail (asi/372000), Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More, FastSigns (asi/395000) and Image360 (asi/589150) were among 100 brands selected as the Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in 2024 by Entrepreneur magazine. The full list is featured online and in the May/June issue of Entrepreneur, a leading business and franchise management news magazine.

This is the third year that Entrepreneur has put together its list of 100 franchises that it says are “doing the most to expand opportunities for all.” Unlike some of its other lists, which are created by gathering and crunching data and then ranking brands based on the results, this list was chosen editorially, and companies were listed alphabetically, rather than in a ranked order. Entrepreneur said it considered a number of factors when compiling the list, including: incentives offered to franchisees from underrepresented groups, diversity among franchisees, leadership team diversity, and other company-wide DEI initiatives and programs. Leaders were also asked to elaborate on why their company values DEI and how they’re promoting it.

“Franchising is truly an opportunity that’s available to all, but not everyone is aware that it’s within their reach,” said Jason Feifer, editor-in-chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “That’s why we want to celebrate the brands that do the most to expand opportunities for everyone – and who are improving their businesses by ensuring that many different voices and experiences are welcomed.”

The franchises on this year’s list said they were honored to be included, noting that it was a testament to their core principles. “It is through our diversity and inclusion efforts that we ensure our global workplaces are dynamic, supportive of all team members and representative of our customers and communities,” said Bill McPherson, vice president of retail network development at AlphaGraphics. “Our dedication to fostering an inclusive atmosphere is reaffirmed by this recognition.”

Tina Bacon-DeFrece, CEO of Big Frog, added that DEI is integral to franchising: “We believe that embracing different perspectives enhances our business culture, nurtures creativity and ensures everyone has a seat at the table, making a positive impact on our community.”

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