Allegra Network Appoints Carl Gerhardt as New CEO

Posted on May 03, 2007 by

Former Company President and COO Takes on New Role

NORTHVILLE, Mich  – From past franchise owner to president and chief operating officer, Carl Gerhardt of Allegra Network LLC- one of the world’s largest print and graphic communications franchises- is achieving many mile markers within the company. His latest feat: Becoming Allegra Network’s chief executive officer.

Since taking the reigns as president of the company in January 2004, Gerhardt has made a substantial contribution to Allegra Network. Among his contributions, he assisted the company in reconfiguring its management structures by appointing four new vice presidents to help foster the growth of the company. He also helped facilitate the company in implementing several strategic initiatives, including two major acquisitions of graphic communications franchisors, the launch of its Digital Print Centers franchise concept and the diversification of services offered by its 600 franchise members.  In 2006, Allegra Network recorded its highest system-wide sales ever with $369 million, which was a 30 percent increase since Gerhardt became president.

Gerhardt’s time and success within Allegra Network date back to more than 20 years ago when he and his wife, Judy, opened an American Speedy Printing Center franchise in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The duo grew their business to more than $2 million in sales. They also were among the first franchise members to offer advanced digital technologies, while also transitioning to the company’s premier brand, Allegra Print & Imaging.

“During my twenty years as a franchise owner, I shared a great deal with other franchise members as their peer, but it has been even more gratifying to share my insights as a leader of Allegra Network,” Gerhardt said. “I feel honored to have learned and grown with the company, and I look forward to continued pursuit of new growth strategies to benefit our franchise members.”

With Gerhardt’s newly appointed leadership, Allegra Network will pursue its goals to reach the projected $470 million growth by the end of 2007 and $600 million by 2009. Gerhardt also will lead the company in its efforts to gain Allegra Network franchises in the more than 700 open markets across the country, including Atlanta, Chicago, Phoenix and San Diego. In addition, Allegra has more than 400 independent printers in its inventory that are interested in being “matched” with a new franchisee.

About Allegra Network

Allegra Network LLC is one of world’s largest print and graphic communications franchises linking more than 600 locations across North America and abroad. With system-wide sales of $369 million (2006), the company ranks in the top 150 among all franchise companies in the world and is considered a leader in franchise training, technology implementation and franchise member profitability. Allegra Network was founded in 1976 and today supports three primary brands under its print division – Allegra Print & Imaging, American Speedy Printing and Insty-Prints and the Signs Now brand under its sign division. Principal shareholders include Domino’s Pizza founder/former CEO and Ave Maria University founder Thomas S. Monaghan and members of Allegra Network management.