Many business owners dream of running their own business and having their brand become a household name. However, in reality, there are very few brands that we love and recognise on a national and global scale.

Opening a retail business is a large investment and it can often be difficult to establish a brand, build a customer base and stand out from competitors on the high street. However, Mail Boxes Etc. have thrived on their local high street while many other brands have fallen by the wayside. So what’s the difference between starting a business from scratch and investing in a proven franchise model in the retail sector?

One of the major benefits of investing in a retail franchise is being part of an established brand and customer base. When starting from scratch it can take a huge amount of time and effort to build customer trust and awareness but, when joining a franchise network, the majority of the work has already been done. Mail Boxes Etc. can offer an established and well-known brand to franchisees who join their network and they really know how to stay ahead in the retail sector.

When it comes to thriving on the high street, Mail Boxes Etc.’s secret is constant innovation. They continuously introduce new products and services to their business to help franchisees stay ahead of their competition. Where many other brands may only be able to offer a specific service, Mail Boxes Etc. can monitor changes in their market and respond to customer demand accordingly.

“Investing in a retail franchise really is a great move for anyone struggling to find their own niche on the high street. Franchising offers a proven business model and a great opportunity to build a thriving business with the added comfort of being under the franchise umbrella. Starting from scratch is just too many eggs in one basket for some business owners!” explains Heather Hannant, Head of Franchise Development.

Mail Boxes Etc. is the only high street chain to offer consumers and local companies a truly comprehensive range of business services. Their high street, one-stop-shop concept offers its customers a mix of international and national shipping, mailbox rental, postal services, printing and copy services to mention a few. With 1,600 stores in five continents including over 155 in the UK and Ireland, they are one of the world’s largest non-food retail franchises, and continue to grow year on year.