A Franchise That Has Stood The Test of Time
By, Brendan Griffith 
As consumers nationwide are cutting back on frivolous spending in favor of the basics, retailers are taking a hit at the cash register. But for those like FAST-FIX, the weakened economy is offering a “timely” opportunity for growth. The world’s largest franchise of jewelry and watch repair services is looking to open 80 local mall-based stores in the next five years.
“As more people realize it is less costly to repair an existing piece of jewelry than buy a new one, there is greater demand for our services,” said Marvin Biltis, CEO of FAST-FIX, highlighting the company’s 27 years of service. “As specialists in our segment, we look forward to providing customers with a jewelry repair experience unlike any other and building customer trust with our professional experience and reputation.”
Founded in 1984 with a cornerstone location in Pittsburgh, FAST-FIX has perfected a system for delivering fast, efficient, professional repair work on jewelry and watches for men and women. With conveniently located stores in high traffic areas of regional shopping malls, FAST-FIX stores specialize in offering a wide range of “while you shop” repair services including ring sizing, chain repair, remounting, engraving and eyeglass repair, as well as replacing watch batteries. Stores also sell jewelry, watches, jewelry cleaners, watchbands, mountings, loose stones and engravable giftware.
“Thanks to FAST-FIX, customers no longer have to wait 2-3 weeks to have their jewelry and watches repaired by outside contractors,” Biltis added. “We pride ourselves on the experience customers receive every time they walk into one of our stores and providing a previously unavailable convenience factor.”
FAST-FIX is seeking franchisees with a strong desire to grow with a recognized concept within the jewelry and watch repair industry and a passion for satisfying customers. Prospective franchisees should have a business/management or retail background, while previous franchise ownership and experience is a plus. In addition, would-be owners should not be turned away by the misconception that FAST-FIX is only for experienced jewelers. From jewelers to educators, real estate agents to restauranteurs, FAST-FIX offers a business opportunity for anyone in a high-growth industry. All the repair work is performed by professional jewelers that work in our stores for our Owners.
The average start-up cost to own and operate a FAST-FIX store is typically between $142,500 and $307,500. FAST-FIX offers two different types of franchise formats, including visible kiosks and inline stores. A turnkey operation, the Franchisor provides everything the new owner needs, including; securing the most visible site in a regional mall, lease negotiation, store construction, full training and ongoing support and initial inventory and equipment.
According to Biltis, there has never been a better time to join the FAST-FIX family, as the concept’s strong brand recognition, extremely high margins and notable return on investment for franchisees are key factors that set FAST-FIX apart from its competition.
