Allegra Network LLC, one of the world’s largest graphic communications franchises, announced plans to expand its successful Conversion Print Center (CPC) concept in Portland. Uniquely positioned to suit today’s rapidly growing printing and graphic communications needs of small-to-medium-sized businesses, the franchise concept is calling for five locations to open in Portland, with an additional four throughout Oregon by 2008.

According to the Printing Industries of America, the world’s largest graphic arts trade association, printing is America’s third largest manufacturing industry and employs more than one million people, attributing to over $170 billion in sales.

“Portland is a key market for us and a real opportunity for the growth of our Conversion Print Center concept,” said Darryl Buchanan, vice president of franchise development for Allegra Network. “Our franchise model allows entrepreneurs to purchase an existing independent printing business and convert it to an Allegra Print & Imaging Center. With an established customer base, experienced staff, immediate cash flow and proven track record, the CPC opportunity offers individuals a distinct advantage over most start-up franchises.”

In efforts to meet the changing business communications demands of small-to-medium-sized businesses, Allegra helps CPC franchise members enter growth segments such as signs and banners, mailing services, promotional products and one-to-one marketing solutions utilizing variable text and graphics to target messages. These value-added services are offered to clients in addition to traditional capabilities such as full-color printing, digital color printing, graphic design and finishing services.

The initial investment to open an Allegra CPC $162,850 to $441,200 and seller financing is available. Allegra Network will help prospective franchise members find and purchase a qualified printing business, council them on necessary upgrades, teach them how to manage the location, and provide them with ongoing operational, marketing, technical and field support to help take their business to the next level.

Allegra CPC is a business-to-business franchise that does not require weekend or evening hours and whose small base of primary customers usually make up 80 percent of the center’s sales. The franchise opportunity is perfect for downsized corporate executives who are looking to maintain the financial lifestyle they have grown accustomed to having. According to Buchanan, nearly 75 percent of Allegra CPC franchise members are formerly from the corporate world.