Mail Boxes Etc. - Because Starting your own business doesn’t have to be complicated.
- Over 2,900* Retail Service Centres in 50+ Countries *including those trading under our sister brands
- Over 1,700 MBE Franchised Service Centres, Worldwide
- 150+ MBE Franchised Service Centres in UK & IE
We're seeking dynamic, motivated individuals, couples or business partners, to join our network of high-street stores, offering a mix of services targeting both businesses and consumers, including parcel logistics, postal, print and copy services.
There’s never been greater demand for our services
With over 250,000 regular customers, worldwide, we’ve become the go-to, one-stop-shop for essential services, small and medium businesses, and the general public, are looking for.
The Mail Boxes Etc. franchise is the perfect opportunity for you if you are looking for greater independence in your future; even if you are a self-employed business owner wanting to diversify your business.
We know what it takes to thrive in an ever-changing marketplace, and our willingness to adapt to modern demands, means we’re still ahead of the game, more than 40 years later.
The Benefits of Owning a Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise:
As a Mail Boxes Etc. franchise owner, you’ll become part of a network of businesses dedicated to fulfilling the demand for a superior service, locally. With our backing and support, you’ll bring high-quality offerings, and excellent in-store customer service, to the heart of your business community.
Mail Boxes Etc. are fully invested in our people, and are proud of our commitment to empowering people just like you to build a better future for themselves.
Through your Mail Boxes Etc. centre, you’ll provide a range of business solutions, including:
- Packing & shipping letters and parcels all over the world
- Logistics solutions for business
- Mailbox and virtual address solutions
- Printing and copying
- Graphic Design & marketing services
Has COVID-19 had an effect on the Mail Boxes Etc. Network?
During the COVID-19 emergency, MBE centres never stopped working, guaranteeing continuity of service for our customers. The resilient spirit of our business owners and all MBE staff has highlighted their ability to adapt and react to constantly shifting consumer needs. Digital training, constant communication and support technology are the three pillars that sustained MBE during the peak of the Covid-19 emergency, emphasising the values that distinguish the brand.
Your business, our support:
Mail Boxes Etc. believe in the power of togetherness, so as a franchisee, you will benefit from:
- The power of the network
- Multiple revenue streams
- Business planning and sales coaching
At Mail Boxes Etc. we put our people at the heart of what we do, so you’ll benefit from the guidance and support of people who want to watch you grow. Our training and support package, has been designed to maximise your potential, and includes:
- Pre-opening & site location
- Area operational support
- Pre-launch, & ongoing comprehensive training including On-site training in some of our most successful stores.
- Extensive national marketing support
What’s my Investment?
Your initial personal investment could be as little as £25,000, with the full, initial investment being between £60,000 and £70,000. Up to 70% of this cost can be funded by a loan from a high-street bank (subject to status). Mail Boxes Etc. also work with finance houses and enterprise finance schemes to help you secure funding for your business.
And, what’s more…
If you are already running a business, and are looking for the right kind of ‘bolt-on’ to enhance your services, and help you grow, Mail Boxes Etc. could be exactly what you need.
Your Next Steps:
Don’t let the Mail Boxes Etc. opportunity pass you by! Just fill in the form below to request more information, today!
Interview with Chun Tsang - MBE Sheffield Franchisee
Chun had always wanted to work for himself, but spent the early part of his career in the corporate environment. “When I spotted that MBE Sheffield had come up for sale due to the retirement of the previous owner, Frank Bigley, I decided to look into the MBE franchise,” he explains. “I found it really interesting because there are so many strands to the business. That’s what attracted me initially. Franchising itself also seemed like a secure bet – the support is there and it’s a proven formula.”
Chun, who has lived in Sheffield for 20 years, was born in Hong Kong and brought up in Essex. He met his wife when they were both travelling, and they eventually settled down in Sheffield, so he knows the city well.
Shortlisted for the 2010 City of Culture designation, Sheffield’s economy has seen steady growth in recent years and its two universities bring around 60,000 students to the area every year. MBE Sheffield has a long history of serving the city’s students, law firms and small businesses. “Frank had the store for many years and had streamlined it brilliantly,” says Chun, who took over in August. “It’s busy, but I inherited two staff members who are really good, so I know I can rely on them to keep things running efficiently. I’m keen to learn from them and take the time to gain a better grasp of the business.”
Exploring opportunities
Much of MBE Sheffield’s business is based around pack and ship. “We do a lot of Auction Logistics work [MBE’s dedicated shipping service for antiques, fine art and collectables]. Most of the local auction houses ship with us, including Sheffield Auction Gallery and Wilkinson’s in Doncaster.” Asked why he thinks this is such a strong income stream, Chun cites the recent pandemic among other things. “People have been bidding at online auctions because they were stuck at home and had nothing else to do.”
Chun is determined to also build up the print and copy side of the business. “We have a bit of an advantage in that there are fewer local print shops around now, due to the pandemic.”
Mailbox rental is now at an all-time high for MBE Sheffield. “It’s difficult to say exactly why,” says Chun, “but I think one factor is that more people are setting up companies from home, and they want to be able to register their business at a mailbox address and keep their professional and personal lives separate.”
His customer base is mainly SMEs. “As a brand, MBE is aiming to move more towards serving the B2B community, so with that policy in mind I will be looking out for new ways to work with local firms and grow business with my existing customers. I think that’s very exciting.”
Goal setting
Chun is taking his new responsibilities as an entrepreneur very much in his stride. “I am trained in how to run a business, so it isn’t daunting. You just need to get your budget sorted out and focus on what you are aiming at.” His goal for the next twelve months is to consolidate on what he’s already got with this successful centre, improve where he can, grow the business steadily and seek more B2B opportunities.
The best thing about running his own business, says Chun, is being in charge and doing his own thing. “It means quicker decision-making. Having been in the corporate world, it takes forever to get things moving. I’ve got great staff, which gives me freedom to look for new opportunities. You get out what you put in. I want to build a culture where I recognise and thank my staff and my customers – build relationships. I find that prospect really inspiring.”
