The 10 Most Influential Women in Business 2024

Renee Friedman: A Dynamic Leader Making Waves in Orlando

The 10 Most Influential Women in Business 2024

Renee Friedman’s list of accolades speaks volumes about her dedication to both her business and her community. As the owner of a signage and printing solutions company in Orlando, Renee has garnered recognition as an influential figure in the local business landscape. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond her professional endeavors, as evidenced by her numerous awards for community service and leadership. From being named Orlando Business Journal Women Who Mean Business to receiving the Central Florida Women’s Resource Center Summit Award, Renee’s impact on the community is undeniable.

Renee’s passion for helping customers find the best signage and printing solutions is matched only by her dedication to fostering a happy and productive team. As a charter member of the Business As Usual Networking Group in Orlando, she understands the importance of building strong relationships within the business community.

In addition to her professional achievements, Renee finds joy in spending time with her daughter, Haley, and cherished family and friends. Her love for adventure and relaxation is evident in her hobbies, which include scuba diving, cycling, golfing, and enjoying the beach.

A Dream Realized

Renee’s journey with FASTSIGNS is truly inspiring. Starting as a customer service representative in 1987, she gradually climbed the ranks to become a sales manager and then a center manager. Her dedication and hard work led her to realize her dream of ownership when she acquired FASTSIGNS of Atlanta, GA, where she played a crucial role in providing signage for the 1996 Olympic Village.

After selling her Atlanta center, Renee continued her journey with FASTSIGNS by becoming the general manager for the largest multi-center group in downtown Dallas. In 2001, she seized the opportunity to purchase and manage FASTSIGNS of Orlando, Florida – Central.

Renee’s story exemplifies long-term commitment, perseverance, and passion for her work. Despite the challenges and changes over the years, her dedication to FASTSIGNS has remained unwavering. Her success serves as a testament to the opportunities for growth and advancement within the company and the fulfillment that comes from pursuing one’s dreams.

Gratitude and Humility

Renee’s recognition with the FASTSIGNS Award, the highest honor in the FASTSIGNS network, is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and contribution to the brand’s culture and values.

The FASTSIGNS Award is bestowed upon franchisees who exemplify the ethos of FASTSIGNS, demonstrating excellence in problem-solving, customer service, and collaboration within the network. Renee’s commitment to helping customers and employees achieve their objectives, as well as her willingness to collaborate with other franchisees, highlights her as a true brand champion.

Renee’s gratitude towards her team, clients, vendors, and loved ones reflects her humility and acknowledgment of the collective effort behind her success. Her acknowledgment of her husband’s support and partnership underscores the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success.

Building Trust

Renee’s acknowledgment of the ongoing evolution and expansion within the sign and graphics industry underscores the need for adaptation and innovation to meet changing demands and preferences. The transition from limited typestyles and colors to virtually limitless options, alongside advancements in technology such as digital and LED signs, reflects the industry’s commitment to providing more dynamic and visually appealing solutions.

At FASTSIGNS Orlando Central, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and exceptional customer service is paramount. By prioritizing quality and excellence in every aspect of their operations, Renee and her team instill confidence in their clients, who rely on them for their signage needs. This commitment to reliability and consistency fosters long-term relationships and contributes to the success of their clients’ businesses.

By staying abreast of industry advancements, investing in cutting-edge equipment and processes, and maintaining a focus on customer satisfaction, FASTSIGNS Orlando Central continues to uphold its reputation as a trusted provider of top-tier signage solutions in the community.

Celebrating Success

Renee’s receipt of the 2024 FASTSIGNS Award at the recent Convention marks a pinnacle moment in her career, one that she graciously shares with her partner, Richard Goldstein, and their exceptional team. Their achievements extend beyond this prestigious accolade, as evidenced by their recognition with the CEO Circle Award, reserved for the top 25 centers with the highest sales volume in the United States, among other notable honors.

The list of awards and accolades received by Renee and her team is extensive, reflecting their dedication to excellence and contributions to both the business community and the broader society. From being recognized as the Business Owner of the Year by the Orlando Business Journal to receiving the Best Printer Award from the Winter Springs/Oviedo Chamber, their commitment to quality and service excellence is evident.

Moreover, Renee and her team’s involvement in supporting various community organizations through corporate sponsorships, event participation, and in-kind donations underscores their commitment to giving back and making a positive impact beyond their business endeavors. Through their collective efforts, they have not only achieved remarkable success but also contributed to the betterment of their community, embodying the spirit of leadership and service.

Efficiency Under Pressure

Renee emphasizes the importance of team culture and opportunities for growth within their organization. They prioritize creating a positive work environment by providing excellent working conditions, competitive compensation, and benefits that go beyond industry standards. By fostering a culture where team members can thrive and succeed, they aim to attract and retain top talent while ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of their employees.

Reflecting on their experiences, Renee acknowledges the significance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success. Every project presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. One particularly challenging project was their involvement in the AT&T Olympic Village, where they faced tight deadlines and high stakes due to the prestigious nature of the event. Despite the pressure, they approached the project with organization and efficiency, ultimately delivering exceptional results. This experience underscores their commitment to excellence and their ability to overcome obstacles through teamwork and determination.

Consistent Branding Across Projects

Renee highlights that FASTSIGNS Orlando Central offers comprehensive services, covering every aspect of the signage process from inception to installation. They prioritize client needs by listening attentively, offering optimal solutions, and paying meticulous attention to detail. One key advantage for clients is the ability to maintain consistent branding across their projects and locations throughout the United States. With an experienced team and advanced equipment, they strive to minimize delivery times and ensure prompt service for their clients. This commitment to excellence in service and quality underscores their dedication to meeting and exceeding client expectations.

Providing Value Beyond Convenience

Renee emphasizes the expanding market for digital and LED signage, highlighting the importance of providing comprehensive solutions. While online vendors may offer convenience, many clients value and require a high level of customer service and assistance, setting FASTSIGNS Orlando Central apart from competitors. To remain successful, they prioritize standing out and staying ahead of the competition.

Additionally, Renee mentions their successful adaptation of two remote positions over the past three years, underscoring the importance of being adaptive and open to change in order to meet evolving business needs and market demands. This flexibility allows them to effectively serve their clients while staying agile in a dynamic industry landscape.

Strategic Expansion

In December 2023, Renee’s team made a strategic move by relocating their center to a building twice the size and purchasing the property. This expansion enables them to broaden their range of offerings, accommodate more talented staff, maintain larger inventory onsite, and facilitate continued growth. Their overarching goal remains steadfast: to deliver exceptional products and services marked by innovation and creativity. They aspire to establish themselves as an indispensable resource for their clients and to set a standard of leadership within their industry.

Website: fastsigns.com