ACCEL GRAPHICS

Accel Graphics is a graphic design and signage company that produces signs, storefront treatments, vehicle wraps and websites for business customers. The company positions its work around branding, presenting itself as helping small businesses develop and present a consistent company image.

Its stated workflow moves from an assessment of a customer's advertising and business needs, to the creation of a design layout that accounts for copy hierarchy, brand colors and letter sizing for legibility at distance, to production of the finished sign, wrap or brand identity. The company describes using large-format printing for vehicle wraps and states that additional team members allowed it to expand into further areas of design work.

Founding story

Founder Johnny (John) Edwards developed an interest in art and skateboarding, studied art and business at a community college, and started a skateboard company, Impulse Skateboards, teaching himself design software so he could produce the print files manufacturers needed for his decks, which were sold in five states. While screen printing t-shirts in his garage, a friend suggested he start a sign company. At age 25, with his grandmother cosigning a $3,000 loan, Edwards founded Accel Graphics in a 9-by-15-foot shop in the middle of Fort Payne.

Business model

Project-based design and production services sold to business customers, covering signage, vehicle wraps, storefront looks, websites and brand identity work.

Revenue is generated from customer projects for signage, vehicle wraps, website and branding design work, with repeat business from customers cited as a goal.