Signal 88®
What Is Signal 88?
Signal 88 is a franchise offering security services, specializing in security patrols and surveillance, security consulting, executive protection, and workplace training in personal safety, risk avoidance, and threat management. It sells services primarily to business customers needing site surveillance and consulting, and also to individuals and businesses seeking executive protection and safety training. The System centers on highly trained security personnel supported by an integrated patrol and guard management system, standardized uniforms, equipment specifications, and training and management assistance.
Signal 88 Franchise: Pros and Cons
With 1,060 franchised locations, this system offers strong national scale, broad marketing reach and a large peer network; however, the initial franchise fee of $120,000 and a maximum estimated total investment up to $5,093,300 create significantly higher upfront capital requirements than typical for the sector.
Pros
Cons
Lawsuits & Legal Risk
Signal 88: Part 1 (The Facts): Ongoing and recent litigation includes an insurance-coverage suit by Liberty Mutual, a franchisor-initiated termination/royalty suit with counterclaims, prior disputes over software/IP and worker-classification settled or adjudicated, and an administrative license surrender in Indiana. Part 2 (The Advice): Review franchise agreements’ termination and post-termination obligations, indemnity and insurance clauses, IP and software licenses, workforce-classification practices, and Item 12 territorial/royalty protections.
Territory Protection
Signal 88 grants a protected, ZIP-code‑based exclusive Territory (typically sized by market density at ~100,000 population) with site‑specific rights stated in the Franchise Agreement. These rights are contingent on meeting performance quotas, while the franchisor retains development rights in the surrounding market and may sell via alternative distribution channels.
Training & Support
Signal 88 provides a robust 98-hour training curriculum designed to prepare three managerial staff members for launch. The program includes on-site launch assistance as operational readiness support; travel and lodging expenses are covered by the franchisor, and on-site support services may incur additional fees.
Unit Growth Analysis
This franchise expanded from 582 units in 2021 to 1,060 in 2024 (+478 units, +82.1% cumulative), with YoY growth rates of 45.9% (2021→2022), 13.4% (2022→2023) and 10.1% (2023→2024) - showing decelerating but still positive unit growth. For investors this signals a healthy, scalable brand that is normalizing from an early rapid roll‑out (large 2022 spike) into steadier expansion (97 net units added in 2024); monitor unit economics and market saturation to ensure the slower rate doesn’t presage margin pressure or market limits.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Signal 88 Franchise?
Opening a Signal 88 franchise requires a total initial investment of $126,950 to $5,093,300, according to the 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. This range covers the franchise fee, real estate, equipment, training, and initial working capital needed to launch and operate through the early months.
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Maximum Investment
Minimum Investment Breakdown
Maximum Investment Breakdown
Investment Analysis
This investment analysis is coming soon. Have ideas for other analyses you'd like us to add? Get in touch.
The initial investment amounts shown are estimates only. Actual costs may vary based on location size, business model, and multi-unit ownership arrangements. We recommend reviewing the full Franchise Disclosure Document for complete details.
Signal 88 Franchise Earnings: Not Disclosed
Signal 88 did not disclose financial performance data (Item 19) in their 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. Not all franchisors choose to publish this information, which can make it harder for prospective owners to evaluate expected revenue before investing.
This franchise company did not publish these results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Signal 88 a good franchise to own?
Whether Signal 88 is a good franchise depends on your goals, experience, and local market. Key factors from the 2024 FDD: Signal 88 operates 1060 locations, received a legal risk score of 85/100, a training and support score of 74/100. The franchisor does not disclose financial performance data. Prospective franchisees should review the full Franchise Disclosure Document and consult with a franchise attorney before making any investment decision.
Is a Signal 88 franchise worth the investment?
The value of a Signal 88 franchise investment depends on factors such as location, operator experience, and market demand. The initial investment ranges from $126,950 to $5,093,300. The system reported 30 terminated units in 2024. Franchise investments carry inherent risk, and prospective buyers should conduct thorough due diligence before committing capital.
What is the failure rate of Signal 88 franchises?
In the 2024 FDD, Signal 88 reported 30 terminated franchises and 0 non-renewals out of 1060 total locations. Franchise closures can result from many factors including market conditions, operator decisions, lease expirations, and franchisor enforcement actions. The FDD's Item 20 provides the most detailed unit turnover data.
How long does it take to break even with a Signal 88 franchise?
Break-even timelines for Signal 88 franchises are not disclosed in the 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. Break-even periods vary significantly based on initial investment level, local market conditions, operating costs, and revenue ramp-up speed. Prospective franchisees should build a pro forma financial model using Item 7 cost estimates and, where available, Item 19 financial performance data from the FDD.
Is Signal 88 a franchise or a corporate-owned business?
As of the 2024 FDD, Signal 88 operates 1060 franchised locations and 0 company-owned locations. Franchise opportunities are available through the franchisor's disclosure process.
Does Signal 88 disclose franchise revenue data?
Signal 88 did not disclose financial performance data (Item 19) in their 2024 FDD. Not all franchisors choose to publish this information.
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