A graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in accounting, Matt Minnerick spent 20 years in the corporate world before deciding to pursue a long-time dream of business ownership.
“I enjoyed my previous career in financial services as an analyst for Goldman Sachs and Kraft Foods, and as a senior trader on the Chicago Board of Options Exchange,” said Minnerick. “But, after a point, I was checking business websites frequently for nearby small companies that might be for sale.”
When the Allegra Marketing Print Mail Center in Lisle, Illinois was listed in 2016 on one such site, Matt leaped at the purchase opportunity. His ownership criteria were few, but he wanted to operate a company that, unlike food and beverage operations, allowed him to be free during evenings and on weekends.
The fact that the graphics communications business was in Lisle was also a major plus; Matt attended high school there and was well familiar with the area.
Two years into the Allegra Center ownership experience, Matt lists his challenges as staying organized and keeping track of project workflow while also reaching out to local companies, organizations, and nonprofits to increase sales.
“Allegra is a fun business, and we have a lot of different lines of services to sell,” said Minnerick. “As a benefit, I often run into old high school friends while pursuing opportunities.”
He also rates the programs and support he receives as a Franchise Member as additional plusses.
“I’m able to expand my customer base and grow my business with an experienced team and continued assistance from Allegra,” said Minnerick. “If I have any questions, the Home Office always has the answers. They often go above and beyond.”
Matt cites the amount and quality of sales collateral or MMO (Marketing Materials Online) that is made available to him through the franchise network’s internal CRM as one example. The expertise he receives from the Allegra Marketing Team in the Home Office is another.
But, what of his overall satisfaction as the recent new owner of an Allegra Center? Matt’s latest activity speaks volumes.
“I just purchased another nearby graphics communications business,” said Minnerick. “You might say my enjoyment at owning and operating an Allegra is exceeding my expectations!”