Frequently asked questions

Understanding the PANO model

  • Is PANO a franchise?

    PANO is not a franchise in the legal sense of the term, but a network of brand-licensed dealers.
    This model offers the reputation, training and tools of a large network, while giving each entrepreneur total freedom of management.
    It’s a flexible alternative to franchising, designed for entrepreneurs with a structured framework and a high degree of autonomy.

  • What's the difference between a franchise and a brand licensing agreement?

    Franchising often imposes rigid specifications, an obligation to go through the central purchasing group and royalties proportional to sales.At PANO, the dealer remains independent: he benefits from the support of the network while paying a fixed royalty. You retain the freedom to purchase, organize and develop your local business.

  • What is the DIP (Document d'Information Précontractuel)?

    The DIP is a mandatory document for franchises. Although PANO operates under a brand concession model, a complete pre-contractual information file is given to each candidate.
    It guarantees total transparency on the conditions, key figures and operation of the network before any signature.

Setting up a signage business

  • Why is signage a good choice for a career change?

    The signage market is growing steadily, driven by the visual communication needs of companies, businesses and local authorities.
    It’s a concrete, creative and sustainable sector, ideal for profiles undergoing retraining who want to breathe new life into their careers in a rewarding professional environment.
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  • What types of business can I develop with a PANO agency?

    A PANO agency offers a complete range of visual communication services: signage, indoor and outdoor signage, vehicle branding, textile branding, window graphics, large-format printing, promotional items, etc.
    Business packs enable you to adapt your level of equipment and production to your profile and ambitions.

  • How much does it cost to join PANO?

    A PANO agency offers a complete range of visual communication services: signage, indoor and outdoor signage, vehicle branding, textile branding, window graphics, large-format printing, promotional items, etc.
    Business packs enable you to adapt your level of equipment and production to your profile and ambitions.

  • What assistance is available to set up a PANO agency?

    Depending on your profile, you may be able to take advantage of several schemes:

    • ACRE and ARCE for jobseekers,
    • Bpifrance loans and grants,
    • partner bank loans,
    • part of the training may be paid for by France Travail via the AIF (aide individuelle à la formation) or by your OPCO (if you already have a company).
      Our teams can put you in touch with accounting partners to help you draw up your business plan, and with banking partners to help you find financing.

  • Is it possible to open a branch without a down payment?

    A personal contribution is recommended, the amount varying according to the package chosen and the type of project (start-up or takeover).
    Our teams can help you build a solid business case and optimize your financing plan with the help of our partner banks.

Retraining and joining the network

  • I want to retrain, is it possible with PANO?

    Yes, PANO supports a large number of entrepreneurs who are changing careers.
    No experience in signage is required: the PANO Academy trains you in technique, management and sales, while an experienced mentor guides you during your launch.

  • I'm already in the signage business, can I join PANO?

    Yes. If you’re already active in signage or a related business, you can develop your company through a brand transition.You keep your customer base while benefiting from the PANO brand image, a more organized structure, supplier partnerships with exclusive advantages, key account customers via PANO.Global in particular, and new high-performance marketing tools.

  • Who can become a PANO dealer?

    PANO caters to all types of entrepreneurs:
    • People undergoing retraining who want to set up their own business,
    • Professionals in the signage sector,
    • Professionals in related visual communications sectors (graphic designers, communications agencies, printers, textile marking, advertising objects, reprographics, etc.),
    • Investors looking to develop a multi-agency network,
    • Investors looking to develop the Master Concession brand internationally.
    What our dealers and master dealers have in common is their desire to succeed in a buoyant sector.

PANO support

  • What training is offered to new dealers?

    The PANO Academy provides comprehensive, Qualiopi-certified training covering technical, sales and management aspects.
    You’ll also benefit from on-site support and personalized mentoring to help you succeed in your first few months of business.

  • Can I go it alone or do I need a team?

    Yes, you can start on your own. The PANO model is based on light, scalable structures.
    As your business grows, you can gradually recruit new staff to expand your production or reinforce your installation.

The advantages of the PANO model

  • How profitable can a PANO agency be?

    Profitability depends on profile and area, but the average PANO agency generates sales of between €200,000 and €300,000 a year, with a gross margin of up to 80%.Thanks to its light structure, low breakeven point and controlled costs, this model delivers a rapid return on investment.

  • Why choose PANO over other signage franchises?

    PANO stands out for its more flexible and more profitable model than traditional franchising.
    Its brand licensing system combines the reputation of a leading network with the freedom of an independent entrepreneur.
    No royalties on sales, full support, high-performance marketing tools and major account projects via PANO.Global: everything is designed to enable you to undertake your business with peace of mind, with a strong, recognized brand.

  • What's the difference between a franchise and an independent contractor?

    An independent entrepreneur manages his own marketing, purchasing and business development.
    At PANO, you remain autonomous but benefit from the strength of a structured network, negotiated purchasing conditions and the visibility of an international brand.

Want to find out more?

Would you like to create, take over or develop a signage agency?
Our teams are with you every step of the way, to help you turn your entrepreneurial project into a reality.

Contact our development department today.

 

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