Proforma: Empowering Businesses Through Innovative Print and Promotional Solutions

Founded in 1978 by Gregory P. Muzzillo in Cleveland, Ohio, Proforma began with just a $200 investment and quickly expanded into a leading provider of printing and promotional products.

By 1986, the company started franchising, allowing entrepreneurs to offer comprehensive marketing services under the Proforma brand. Today, Proforma operates over 650 franchise offices worldwide and generates more than $500 million in annual sales.

Proforma is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio. It offers a broad range of services, including printing solutions, branded merchandise, custom packaging, uniforms and apparel, eCommerce platforms, digital marketing, and creative design. Its services are tailored to a wide array of industries such as healthcare, education, finance, hospitality, and technology.

What sets Proforma apart is its “One Source with Infinite Resources” model. Proforma also provides access to exclusive pricing on over one million products, as well as comprehensive training and mentorship programs.

Training

Proforma delivers a comprehensive and flexible training program tailored to franchisee needs to ensure proper business operation. Here are the key training components:

1. Initial Instruction: Proforma mandates a three-day initial training session for new franchisees covering the basics of operating the business, including use of proprietary software. This training can occur on-site, remotely, or at company facilities in Cleveland, Ohio or Tampa, Florida.
2. Onboarding Programs: Training varies based on the franchisee’s sales history:
   • “White Glove” (for over $2M in sales): 10 days of training at the franchisee’s location or remotely with 2-3 team members.
   • “Concierge” (for $500K–$2M in sales): 2-5 days at the franchisee’s location or remotely.
   • Additional tailored training is provided for those under $500K.
3. Sales and Business Management Topics: The training curriculum includes sessions on prospecting, proposal writing, closing techniques, recordkeeping, and using business management software.
4. Ongoing Training and Support: Franchisees can attend multiple sessions as needed. Training staff must have at least three years of experience in their subject area. Optional programs like “Energize Summits” offer advanced learning and networking opportunities.
5. Spouse and Staff Participation: Franchisees may bring their spouse or employees to training sessions, although they are responsible for all associated costs like travel and lodging.

Territory Protection

Proforma does not offer territory protection to its franchisees. Franchise owners do not receive an exclusive territory, specific location, radius, population size, or account exclusivity. They may face competition from other franchisees, company-owned outlets, or alternative distribution channels controlled by Proforma.

The Proforma franchise is a non-exclusive license, meaning multiple franchise owners can operate and solicit business within the same geographic area. Franchisees are also not granted rights of first refusal or the ability to acquire additional franchises automatically.

Furthermore, Proforma reserves the right to reassign or limit marketing efforts, and large volume accounts in a given area may be serviced by others, including Proforma itself.