Q. How long have you been in business? Tell us about your company history?
A. Arrowhead Signs owner, Dan Ricks, was the manager of a local sign franchise for 10 years. When the owner was selling the franchise, his hope was that Dan would buy it, but being as Dan and his wife were expecting their first child, Dan decided that he would try starting a business that might allow him some flexibility to spend time with his new, growing family. In the Summer of 1998, Dan and his wife opened Arrowhead Signs. It has been a family owned and operated sign business, ever since. The Ricks family feels grateful to have had the opportunity to do what they love and the freedom to focus on their dedication to the environment.
Q. What type of business do you operate — what do you sell, or what services do you provide and to whom?
A. Eco-Friendly Promotional Signs, Vinyl Banners and Trade Show Displays to everyone.
Q. What led you to work in this field?
A. In 1989, Dan Ricks' family opened one of Arizona's very first Fast Signs franchise locations. Dan had gone to school for hotel and restaurant management, but when his family asked him to be their store manager, he respectfully accepted their offer. Soon after, Dan started receiving recognition for managerial excellence from the franchise. A few years later, his family sold the business, but Dan stayed on as store manager for the new owner. His new boss taught him a lot about running a successful business. When the new owner sold, Dan figured it was time for him to move on, as well, which is how Arrowhead Signs came to be.
Q. What is the goal of your business at an ecological level, what are you trying to achieve?
A. Arrowhead Signs' goal is to continue using all available eco-friendly products available and to educate their customers about ways to reduce and reuse their signs and banners. Arrowhead Signs donates vinyl banners to be repurposed and have converted several used banners into reusable tote bags for their customers, as well. It is a project they hold near and dear to their hearts.
Q. What are your plans for the future of your company?
A. Dan and his wife plan to owner operate Arrowhead Sign as a family business until they are ready to retire. They will continue looking for cleaner and greener ways to produce their products as well.
