Packaging and shipping franchisor Navis Logistics Network is opening a prototype store for its new retail franchise (6/01)

Packaging and shipping franchisor Navis Logistics Network is opening a prototype store for its new retail franchise, Navis Pack & Ship Centers, in the same location where the company began 21 years ago.

The store's warehouse-style design is a radical departure from other retailers in the mail and parcel industry, including its own Handle With Care Packaging Stores. The industrial look showcases the company's expertise in packaging large and fragile items such as computers, furniture and artwork, and the layout makes it easier for franchisees to serve commercial accounts. Company officials are counting on the new format to open up additional markets and stimulate growth in its Franchise network.

Industrial Strength Retail

1980, the Handle With Care Packaging Store at 2306 South Colorado Blvd. was one of the first places in the nation where retail customers could buy packaging supplies or ship a package through UPS. The same store officially reopens tomorrow as the first Navis Pack & Ship Center, an "industrial strength" retail store that looks more like a small warehouse.

Packaging and crating has moved from the back room to the center of the store. Items waiting for packaging are stored in a walk-in steel-mesh cage. Boxes and bubble wrap adorn the walls on industrial shelving.

"We offer a different product than small mail and parcel centers, so we needed a name and a look that sets us apart," said Howard Feldstein, franchisee of the Colorado Blvd. store. "When customers see us crating equipment or packing antique furniture, they are not going to confuse us with a mailbox center."

Company officials said that most Navis Pack & Ship Centers are likely to be new locations rather than conversions of Handle With Care Packaging Stores.

"In most cases, we expect franchisees to convert only if their leases are expiring or if they already serve many commercial customers and can improve their operational efficiency with the new layout," said Marvin L. Storm, CEO of Navis Logistics Network. "Our long-term strategy is to build a family of franchise companies that provide specialty logistics services to many different types of customers."

Navis Logistics Network is launching two other new Franchises this year. These include a high-volume warehouse operation and a marketing franchise that brokers sales for the company's entire network. By the end of 2004, Navis Logistics Network plans to have about 400 retail outlets, 40-50 warehouse franchises and 30 marketing reps.

Navis Logistics Network is a privately held corporation headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado.