Daniel Scott, who owns the Mail Boxes Etc. store in St Albans Road, Watford has received a national award, chosen from 135 stores in the network across the UK.

He opened his store when he was just 27.  He had always wanted to have his own business and was delighted to find that owning a Mail Boxes Etc. franchise would enable achieve this ambition but many years earlier than he had thought possible.

Inspired by his grandfather, who ran his own business until well into his 80s, Daniel grew up in an enterprise culture.   After studying music at the University of Liverpool, he considered the many options open to him.  Although he was an accomplished pianist, he decided against the concert circuit and had no inclination to become a teacher.  While he was trying to decide what to do, he worked in a kibbutz and then took sales jobs on his return to the UK.

It was then he really began to nurture the idea of being his own boss and discovered franchising almost by accident.  He recognised that this offered a ready-made opportunity to achieve his goal but with many advantages and benefits over setting up entirely alone.

At his store, Daniel employs two people and offers a wide range of services to local companies and people.  These include the safe and secure packaging and despatch of parcels to destinations all over the UK and abroad, mail box rental, printing, document finishing, photocopying, corporate literature design, office supplies and stationery.  He also offers postal services, filling some of the gaps left by the closure of local post offices.

Speaking about his award, Daniel said, modestly: “I was really surprised and also extremely pleased to receive the recognition.  Franchising is a great way of being in business for yourself – but without being on your own. I chose a well established and respected franchisor and have had fantastic training, guidance and support ever since.  I thoroughly enjoy being my own boss as I always knew I wanted to control my own destiny.”

Earlier this year, Daniel opened another store, in Milton Keynes.  He lives in Leighton Buzzard.

In 2003 Daniel received a bravery award from the Royal Humane Society in recognition of his successful attempt to rescue a woman who was drowning.