Troy, Mich., July 1, 2003 -- "A great convention, great people! Great time!" commented Allegra Print & Imaging Owner Michael Grant. "Absolutely great convention; my 'to-do' list just doubled, maybe even tripled!" commented Insty-Prints Owner Peggy Bauer. More than 400 people recently traveled to Vancouver, British Columbia, for Allegra Network's 2003 International Convention. Ranked by franchisees as the best convention ever, this was the first time following the acquisition of Insty-Prints last January that the company's franchisees joined together for an event of this magnitude. "The Power is in the Network" was the convention theme representing the great growth and new programs Allegra Network has launched in the last year, growing 53% from the previous year with 2002 system-wide sales totaling $287 million. The convention theme was evident throughout the weekend's presentations, workshops and roundtables and franchisee spirit overall. Many Insty-Prints franchisees explained, "We really felt welcome to the Allegra family," while Allegra Print & Imaging franchisees added, "We really enjoyed meeting and getting to know the new franchise members." Highly acclaimed industry experts included Hundred Million Dollar Salesman Séan McArdle who shared his insights on the art and science of selling digital printing and Manager of Xerox's 1 to 1 Solutions Division Larry Zusman, who demonstrated the growing demand and profit opportunities for printers and their customers through variable data printing. Renowned Broadcast Journalist and Author Mort Crim provided the Keynote address and focused on the importance of understanding goals and finding purpose in both professional and personal life. Quick Printing Magazine Executive Editor Bob Hall shared his insights on the state of the industry and Allegra Network President Bill McIntyre reflected on recent company successes and future goals for the upcoming year. The bi-annual event included a graphics exposition, the first combined show after the acquisition of Insty-Prints, where over 50 suppliers showcased the latest technology and equipment. Among the largest suppliers were Xerox, Adobe, Canon, Heidelberg, Danka and AB Dick. From technology and operational workshop and roundtable topics such as variable data and mailing services, unique staff training and motivational programs, to marketing topics such as innovative brand identity, e-commerce and account management, convention attendees learned the latest to grow their business and enhance the value-added services they offer their customers. "Taking advantage of such opportunities to gain valuable information helps keep our franchise members at the forefront of industry trends," said McIntyre. "Customers are increasingly demanding more advanced printing capabilities and technical project consultation. Our franchise members implement the latest knowledge and resources to meet our customers' ever-changing needs with total printing solutions." Insty-Prints and Allegra Network 2002 Award winners were honored at a special awards luncheon and Awards Dinner Dance Gala. Franchisee Award winners included Allegra Print & Imaging President's Award Winners Garry & Pat Lundberg from San Antonio, Texas. Peter Ostlund from Owatonna, Minnesota, received the Insty-Prints Franchisee of the Year Award. The Quick Printing Magazine Award was presented to Clark and Toni Broadbent from Insty-Prints in Helena, Montana and Hugh Eagan from Instant Copy in Fort Wayne, Indiana. An inaugural Supplier of the Year Award was presented to Lawrence Binding Systems based on the company's continuous commitment to outstanding service to Allegra Network's franchisees. Allegra Network, with nearly 500 locations in North America, Japan and Poland, supports eight brands including Allegra Print & Imaging, Allegra Digital Imaging, American Speedy Printing, Instant Copy, Insty-Prints, Quik Print, Speedy Printing, and Zippy Print. The company is ranked the best in its industry and 54th among the top 500 franchises in the world. Their independently owned franchises specialize in full-service print and graphic communications. Principal shareholders include members of Allegra Network management and Domino's Pizza founder and former CEO, Thomas S. Monaghan.