Troy, MI, January 7, 2004 -- Allegra Network LLC, one of the world's largest printing franchises, announced today that Carl Gerhardt, Allegra's vice president of franchise consulting, has been named the company's new president. In efforts to enhance the organization's position within its marketplace, Gerhardt will be responsible for the growth and expansion of Allegra Network. In addition, he will oversee the company's technology, marketing, operations and franchise support efforts. Bill McIntyre, former president and CEO, has been promoted to the position of chairman and will continue to focus on acquisitions and new initiatives. "Evolving customer needs and new technologies continue to reshape our industry," McIntyre explained. "Carl's invaluable experience will be a great asset to our organization and to our franchise members, positioning us to maximize growth opportunities created by industry change." For nearly 20 years, Gerhardt has played an instrumental role in the development of the Allegra Network. He joined the franchise in 1985 when he and his wife, Judy, opened an American Speedy Printing Centers franchise in Colorado Springs, Colorado. As one of the leaders in the Allegra Network system, they grew their business to more than $2 million in sales. In 1997, they were among the first franchisees to offer advanced digital technologies and transition to the company's premier brand, Allegra Print & Imaging, and have since sold the company to their business partner. Throughout the years, Gerhardt has assisted in the development of master franchises, conducted Profit Mastery Assessments for franchisees and provided regional support. Recently, he worked with the National Association for Printing Leadership (NAPL) to develop and launch the company's first Strategic Management course held last year. In addition to his numerous achievements within the Allegra Network, Gerhardt is also a leader within the industry. Last year he was recognized by Print Image International as an Honorary Lifetime Member. He served six years on the Print Image International board of directors, including a term as Chairman of the board. Gerhardt commented, "I am very excited about this opportunity to contribute to the growth of our franchise network and I especially look forward to working with our dynamic group of employees and franchise members." McIntyre added, "I have worked with Carl for more than 16 years and have come to know him as a seasoned executive and a man of integrity, vision and the ability to get the job done. I look forward to working with him to continue to grow our organization." McIntyre was asked to take over as president in 1991, when Allegra Network (then American Speedy Printing Centers, Inc.) was experiencing serious financial and operational problems. McIntyre re-engineered the company's focus away from increasing the number of franchise locations to increasing value at existing franchise locations. Under his leadership, the company emerged from bankruptcy reorganization in early 1993 and dramatically increased franchisee profitability, while focusing on technology enhancements and customer relationship building. During this time, the company launched a new brand, changed its name and completed three acquisitions, including the most recent acquisition of more than 200 Insty-Prints locations in 2002.