The UPS Store franchise opportunity offers rewarding potential

In April 2001, Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE) the world's largest franchisor of retail shipping, postal and business services, became a subsidiary of UPS, the world's largest express carrier and package delivery company. In 2003, the companies introduced The UPS Store Franchise opportunity to offer franchisees and customers the best of both businesses. In fact, the owners of nearly 90 percent of MBE centers, or more than 3,000 of the approximately 3,300 U.S. locations, elected to re-brand as The UPS Store.

"Since UPS acquired MBE in 2001, we have been working to carve out a strategy that would maximize the combination of these two best-in-class businesses," said Stuart Mathis, president of Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. "By pooling MBE's expertise in retail business services with UPS's expertise in shipping and other expanded capabilities, The UPS Store offers an extensive portfolio of products to our franchisees and their customers. We feel this unrivaled combination of convenience, reliability and price will transform the retail shipping industry."

The UPS brand resonates strongly with current and potential customers and is among the top brands in the world. "Research shows us that the UPS shield is as powerful on the storefront as it is on our package cars," said Rocky Romanella, vice president of UPS Retail Services.

With over 4,500 The UPS Store and MBE locations in more than 40 countries and territories, the network is the global leader in its market. The UPS Store franchisees are part of a network that has pioneered and led the industry for over 20 years. In January, prior to the introduction of The UPS Store, Entrepreneur magazine's annual "Franchise 500" ranked Mail Boxes Etc. #1 in the postal and business services category for the 13th consecutive year.

The UPS Store offers all the support services customers need, from packaging and shipping, to mailbox services, to being a one-stop source for copies, faxes, office supplies and more. The center interior is designed to promote a comfortable, yet professional business environment, with a contemporary appearance geared toward heightening awareness of products and services.

Centers are typically located in shopping centers and commercial complexes, but also can be found in special venues such as airports, universities, convention centers, hotels and military bases. Location sizes range from 1,200 to 1,800 sq. ft. and centers generally employ a full-time staff of two or more employees, including the owner/operator. Hours of operation vary, but locations are typically open Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Many locations are also open on Sundays.

The UPS Store franchisees benefit from the company's commitment to advancement through technology. At The UPS Store, a network system connects all locations to the Home Office. This link enables franchisees to focus resources, solve problems, and keep abreast of industry trends. It also supports the company's aggressive corporate accounts programs, through which The UPS Store provides large companies with various services for their customers and/or employees.

Some additional benefits of The UPS Store franchise include:

Worldwide Brand Recognition

A combination of national advertising campaigns designed to reinforce brand awareness, with strong regional and local marketing plans to help drive business to individual stores.

Local Support

An organization of local representatives to provide start-up support in site selection, lease negotiations, and construction. Day-to-day operational assistance. Local marketing and network support.

Financing Assistance

A program to provide financing for newly-qualified franchisees to assist with the purchase of fixtures and equipment (loans made pursuant to a Department of Corporations California Finance Lenders License). Established relationships with several preferred lenders, including SBA lenders, to assist with financing everything from supplies to working capital.

Real Estate Development

A combination of over 20 years of experience and strong demographic research to help select the best store location.

Store Design and Construction

Proven floor plans and fixture systems adaptable to any site. Standardized design applications with a consistent image.

Training

One month of training including two weeks at The UPS Store University in San Diego, California. Ongoing professional development with Internet-based training and resources, regional meetings, seminars, and worldwide networking.

Technology Development and Support

Company-wide commitment to enhancing business and improving efficiency through advances in technology. A dedicated support staff to assist with business hardware and software questions.

Buying Power

The buying strength of being number one: favorable purchasing programs for both operating supplies and consumer products and services.

Corporate Accounts

A corporate accounts program built around The UPS Store brand providing large national companies with specific services for their customers and/or employees throughout the United States. According to Mathis, "This is truly an exciting time to become a member of this dynamic organization."