FASTSIGNS (asi/395000) and Minuteman Press International (asi/377000) were both recognized as the top franchises in their respective categories in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list.

FASTSIGNS, which was 62^nd overall, ranked No. 1 for signage, graphics and visual communication for the seventh consecutive year. Minuteman Press was the top printing and marketing franchise for the 20^th year in a row. The company was 102^nd overall.

“After a year of record-breaking success for FASTSIGNS, receiving recognition as the No. 1 franchise opportunity for signage, graphics and visual communication once again is a testament to the strength of our brand and the hard work of our franchisees,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands, the parent company of FASTSIGNS.

FASTSIGNS says it surpassed $700 million in network sales for the first time in company history last year.

Minuteman Press, which is celebrating its 50^th year in business, has been named to the top of the printing and marketing franchise category 32 times in all.

“Being awarded this No. 1 rating in our category is a testament to the dedication of our owners and the longstanding commitment and investment we have in helping them succeed,” said Nick Titus, president.

Minuteman Press started as one print shop on Long Island in Plainview, NY, in 1973 and has grown to encompass nearly 1,000 locations across five countries, according to the company. The franchise remains family owned and operated, with Titus the third-generation president. “While our industry has certainly evolved, the core principles of providing high-quality products with outstanding customer service remain the same today,” he said.

To choose the final 500 honorees, Entrepreneur’s editorial team researched and assessed several factors, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability.

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchising industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” said Entrepreneur editor-in-chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44^th-annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”

Other promotional products industry companies that made Entrepreneur’s list include Top 40 distributor Fully Promoted (asi/384000), which was ranked 429 overall and No. 1 in the embroidery/screen printing category.