MBE...the one-stop franchise for business, postal and communication services

Mail Boxes Etc (MBE), with our established network of over 100 stores in the UK and Ireland, is a strong and expanding franchise that offers new franchise opportunities in many locations and emerging business communities.

Working with our world-class suppliers that include FedEx, Parcelforce Worldwide, DHL, UPS and Xerox, we are committed to providing franchisees with the best systems, training and support possible.

MBE is the master licensee of Mail Boxes Etc. Inc., a subsidiary of United Parcel Service of America (UPS), the world's largest package delivery company and a global leader in supply chain services. UPS acquired Mail Boxes Etc in 2001, combining the strength of two powerful brands.

MBE services

Courier and Shipping Solutions

MBE can handle anything - from small packages of documents to valuable art and antiques. We offer an expert packing and courier service, selecting the most appropriate courier company for a customer's individual requirements.

Copy and Print Services

We offer a wide range of copy and print services, including colour, black and white copies and digital printing; offset printing for business cards and brochures; laminating; binding; and other document finishing services.

Mailboxes

At every store, customers can rent a mailbox with secure, 24-hour access to post and parcel deliveries. This service, which provides a business address, is popular with small businesses, especially those operated from a home office.

Office Supplies and packaging material

Our stores carry a wide selection of products, from office stationery to packaging materials.

Etc

Many MBE locations offer computer time rental services and internet access, complete with printing and scanning capabilities. Additional services include web site design, telephone answering services and sending and receiving faxes.

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Training and Support

MBE franchise support - unrivalled and all-encompassing

Our support for new franchise owners includes:

Pre-opening support - site location, lease negotiation, assistance with negotiating essential business terms of the lease.

Centre design and construction - using our modular store programme to produce a 'turnkey' store.

Franchise training, focusing on all elements of the business and its efficient operation - comprehensive two week induction programme; two day technical training; three weeks 'hands-on' training in an MBE accredited training centre; provision of full supporting documentation and manuals.

Financial assistance and business planning - using our excellent relationships with all the leading lenders.

Initial marketing and start-up marketing pack - support to help new franchise owners market their business.

On going support includes:

• Market research
• Introduction of new products and services
• Effective supplier relations
• Refresher training
• Head office franchise support team
• Area franchise owners' support

Financial Information

What does a MBE franchise cost?

Start Up
Precise start-up costs vary depending on many factors, for example location and size of premises. Typically, the cost is around £60,000, of which we require a minimum of £20,000 liquid capital.

On-going fees
Six per cent Management Service fee and 4 per cent Marketing fee, per month (see franchise prospectus for more information).

Click here to request more information from Mail Boxes Etc

Who's Ideal for Us

Why We Like Being MBE Franchisees

Murli Mulchandani and Rikesh Nichani, London
MBE's current franchisees of the year, now have three outlets in the capital.

Before joining MBE Murli headed a company that imported and distributed children's wear and Rikesh worked in the IT industry. Business partners and brothers-in-law, they were looking for a business where they could work together and favoured franchising because it offered a safer route to self-employment than starting a venture alone.

They met MBE for the first time at a London exhibition. "There were many different opportunities but none appealed until we met MBE," Murli said. "We particularly liked the variety of services and we struck a rapport with the people too. We knew that MBE is a robust franchise, offering a range of services that businesses and individuals really want, so there will always be a demand," he added.

Graham Angus, Stirling
Graham says that becoming a franchisee was one of the best decisions of his life. He chose to leave a secure and well paid job to join MBE and realise his life-long ambition to be his own boss. He comments: "I began to think 'it's now or never'. I wanted a franchise in a completely different sector to my previous career and my search led me to MBE, which impressed me greatly."

Graham continued: "It's great being part of a network and following an established and proven system to develop the business. Building up awareness and working hard bring success."

At the end of his third year, Graham had increased turnover by 34 per cent which he says means that "the business is going in the right direction". "Being a franchisee is a great opportunity but with the benefit of on-going support from the franchisor," he summed up.