Archive for the 'Franchise Expansion' category

Originally published at http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/blog/shop_watch/2010/12/another-garbonzo-plus-holiday.html

Read the original article at www.hcnonline.com/kingwood/news/article_e1625b51-3379-5b62-90ed-d5b2209e94ae.html

By Jennifer Summer of The (Humble) Observer

Greg and Renee Howard had grown tired of moving almost every three years and relocating their three children. Their family had just moved to the Houston area and had spent a year in the community when they were asked to move again.

“We did not want to move since two of our children were in high school, so we decided to look at other business options and possibly open our own business,” Greg said.

Soon after, the Howards opened their first PostNet location in Humble and recently opened a second location next to the H-E-B Summerwood Market.

Though PostNet is a franchise, each location is family-run and family-operated, and two of the Howards’ children help with the business.

“We decided on PostNet because we wanted a business that is relevant and part of the community, not just a business. As a business, we want to give back to the community in any way possible,” Greg said.

The new Summerwood location has only been open for a week and has already received positive comments from area residents and businesses from around the community.

Renee was approached by H-E-B Summerwood Market which was looking for a mail center and business support business since there were not any around the Summerwood and Fall Creek areas.

“H-E-B received community input and many of the residents said they would like a place that could take care of either their small business needs or mailing/shipping needs,” Renee said. “More people are starting to recognize the PostNet brand and know about the services offered, so we are very excited.”

PostNet is known for its services that cater to small business owners, employees who work from home and other consumers in the area with services such as design, print, copy and shipping.

The business also offers a number of digital printing, document finishing and professional packaging services as well as freedom of choice for the customer as an authorized shipping outlet for FedEx, UPS and the U.S. Postal Service.

“Our business, PostNet, is like a small business’ administrative assistant. We try to help the customer with any services they might need and we are very excited about our second location, especially since there was such a demand,” Greg said.

Both Greg and Renee agree that being a part and giving back to the community is the most important. To give back, PostNet offers a discount for teachers when they come into the Howards’ business for printing.

“There are a lot of teachers who pay out-of-pocket for printing, so we want to be there and help them with what they need. In the future, we are hoping to support other groups, if possible; we are happy to be in the community,” Greg added.

The Howards are hoping to have a grand opening celebration for the community in November.

The new PostNet location in Summerwood is located at 12680 W. Lake Houston Parkway next to the H-E-B Summerwood Market. The original location is at 4830 Wilson Road, Suite 300, in Humble.

For more information about PostNet, call the Humble store at 281-441-7638 or log on to www.postnet.com/humble-tx203, or the Summerwood shop at 281-454-7455 or renee.howard@PostnetHumble..com.

Local entrepreneurs Glenn Romero and Sam Bowers recently opened a PostNet franchise in Carrollton, TX, located at 1017 E. Trinity Mills Rd., Ste. 108. Romero and Bowers researched various business opportunities, but knew that they wanted to provide a service that would help budding entrepreneurs get off the ground. That is when they found PostNet, a design, print, copy & shipping franchise that would allow them to give the growing population entrepreneurs the consult and support they need.

PostNet of Carrollton provides design, print, copy and shipping services all under one roof, catering to small business owners, employees who work from home, and busy consumers in the area. PostNet offers a number of digital printing, document finishing and professional packaging services as well freedom of choice for the customer as an authorized shipping outlet for FedEx, UPS and the U.S. Postal Service.

“We’re filling the void for convenient design, print, copy and shipping services that are essential to the success of start-ups in the Carrollton area,” said Romero. “It’s rewarding to know that we are helping rebuild economic prosperity in the Carrollton area by supporting entrepreneurism.”

PostNet of Carrollton is open from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, visit PostNet of Carrollton.

Originally published on Examiner.com Dallas, Oct. 31, 2010. Article and photo by Wray Rives. Click here for the original article.

Read the original article at www.insidebiz.com/news/thinking-outside-mailbox

By Lakeshia Artis

Last week, Amanda Crow opened a PostNet franchise, a printing, shipping and mail business, in the Ocean View area of Norfolk.

The company, which has hundreds of stores nationwide and in several countries, describes itself as a neighborhood business center. PostNet services and products include computer rental stations, fax services and office supplies. The company prints business cards, scans images and documents to CDs, and offers document-finishing services like binding, stapling and laminating.

“We offer any printing, copying and finishing services,” Crow said. “Our location provides notary service and we are an authorized shipping location for FedEx, UPS, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. We also provide mailboxes that are better than P.O. boxes because you can receive FedEx and UPS at a private mailbox as opposed to a P.O. address.”

Crow, 26, a retired disabled veteran and parachute rigger with Navy Special Warfare, came up with the idea of becoming a franchise owner after an unpleasant experience at the post office.

“My husband and I were trying to ship things out of a post office in Ocean View and the line was crazy,” Crow said. “The idea came from that experience. I drove down to a PostNet in Virginia Beach and spoke with the owner, Dennis Allord, who gave us a lot of information. Plus we saw a need for it in the Ocean View community because we didn’t see any other business like that around.”

Crow credits Allord for being supportive and offering her advice and guidance.

“I had previously been a customer of his and I sat down with him prior to starting the process,” she said. “I asked him how the franchiser supports you, is it a good company to work for and what was the franchising experience like?”

For Crow, the road to becoming a franchise owner was a smooth one because of the tremendous support she received from PostNet.

“I first met with Jeff Mullin, a franchise coordinator who works with individuals to find out if they are a good match for PostNet,” Crow said. “He was fantastic and answered all of my questions. I really wanted to become part of PostNet because of its family-like atmosphere.”

To maintain a tight-knit group of franchise owners, PostNet discourages absentee owners and will only grant franchises to individuals who plan to be involved initially as a full-time owner-operator. Long-term, full-time operation of the centers is not required; however, initially it is critical.

“PostNet looks for entrepreneurs who have the same goal,” she said. “They will franchise only to people who are owner-operators, as opposed to individuals who buy five McDonalds and open them up. I will say that we have a cohesive group of franchisees.”

The next step to becoming a franchise owner was a week-and- a-half training session at PostNet World headquarters in Denver, Colo., which consisted of learning about the history of PostNet, making copies, point of sales on the register, finances and much more.

“After successfully completing the training in Denver, I signed my paperwork,” Crow said.

Shortly after, Crow secured a location in Ocean View that had to be cleared with PostNet. Typically, the company assists new owners in securing a location. After running an analysis on the area, it was determined to be a viable location.

“The first week of the store opening, a trainer from headquarters will come out to help you,” Crow said. “Then in a month, another trainer will come out and help you out with any glitches that need to be worked out. After that trainer leaves, I will have access to a business consultant. Someone at PostNet is available 24/7. If you have an issue, someone will always get back in touch with you.”

Additionally, UPS, FedEx, DHL and USPS representatives will offer training to help owners set up and sell their products and services.

With any franchise, owners are required to follow more restrictive guidelines than independent business owners.

“I cannot alter a PostNet logo because it’s a registered trademark,” Crow said. “If you want to do something specific with the logo, the company has a creative director who will work with you to create something. The scheme of the store has to be set up like the other stores. Also, I can’t just use any vendor that I want unless it’s on an approved vendor list.

“If there is a local vendor I want to use, I have to contact headquarters and work with the vendor to get them on the approved list,” she said.

Unfortunately, Crow’s husband died earlier this year and was unable to see their dream realized.

“I think he would be proud of me,” she said. “He knew it was something I wanted to do and he was very supportive.”

Adding a personal touch and providing outstanding customer service is what sets PostNet apart from other shipping and mailing businesses, according to Crow.

“We also offer packing services that aren’t offered at the post office,” she said. “You can just bring in what you need to have done and I can get it done for you.” nib

In the owner’s words

Amanda Crow, owner, talked to Inside Business about PostNet, a printing, shipping and mail business in Norfolk that is part of a global franchise. Services include but are not limited to, business cards, stationery, business forms and carbonless forms, copy and finishing services, digital services, crating and freighting, graphic design, and direct mail and marketing materials.

Hardest part about launching the business I would say the hardest thing is trying to get everything done in one day. At the beginning of the day, I always make a to-do list. And usually by the end of the day, the list has grown. I try my best to stay on top of everything. You learn early on how to delegate responsibility and trust that they will get things done. That was a hard lesson to do.

One lesson you learned that you wished you’d known before you started I don’t know. If I had any questions, the representatives at PostNet were there to assist me.

Biggest risk you took I got out of the military. That was secure income. It’s scary to leave a job that pays you on the 1st and 15th of each month to not knowing when you will start making money.

Biggest obstacle you overcame Doing this without my husband has been the hardest thing. I had planned to do this with his help. Fortunately, I have great friends that have helped throughout this process.

Future plans I’m interested in opening other franchises. Up until now, everything has been an awesome experience. Hopefully in the future, Dennis Allord, a PostNet owner in Virginia Beach, and I will work together on something. I look forward to having a successful business in Ocean View.

Employees Four

Financing Personal savings and a loan through Navy Federal Credit Union.

Marketing PostNet assists me with marketing and the promotion of the business. For the next few weeks, we will do fliers and door hangers.

PostNet announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Process Peak to develop a new fully customizable franchise sales platform.

“We’re excited to work with the team at Process Peak and their web-based collaborative solution to optimize our sales process and build an essential pipeline management tool while properly qualifying candidates and awarding franchises,” said Brian Spindel, COO and co-founder of PostNet. “Together we are going to simplify and improve PostNet’s sales process and take it to an entirely new level.”

Process Peak focuses exclusively on the identification, qualification and conversion of franchisees through a proprietary lead generation program called SmartDemand and a web 2.0 sales management tool entitled Pipeline Catalyst. Together, these technology-based solutions empower franchisors to award more franchises to better qualified candidates in less time.

“We developed our technologies specifically for a company like PostNet in mind,” said Mark Franklin, founder of Process Peak. “They are a unique concept and industry leader that is poised to continue growing and looking for a comprehensive program that can help enhance their chance of awarding a PostNet franchise to the right candidate.”

PostNet neighborhood business centers offer an array of high demand services tailored to meet the needs of business owners and today’s busy consumer. With more than 400 stores across the United States and over 850 locations worldwide, PostNet customers can take advantage of full-service printing and document finishing, copy services, graphic design, sign and banner printing, mailbox rentals, computer rental stations, notary, faxing and more. Additionally, PostNet offers professional packing and shipping via FedEx, UPS, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service, which allows customers to compare shipping rates and choose the option that is right for them.

About PostNet

Founded in 1993, Denver-based PostNet has more than 800 locations worldwide, including several hundred in the United States. Each locally owned and operated PostNet Neighborhood Business Center specializes in meeting the design, printing, copying and shipping needs of businesses and busy consumers, with a focus on exceptional, personal customer service. PostNet centers offer full-service digital printing; full- and self-service copying; document binding and finishing; and services like graphic design, computer rental stations, private mailbox rentals and more. They also offer expert packaging services and shipping with UPS, FedEx, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. To learn more, visit www.postnet.com.

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PostNet announced today the launch of its national business conversion program designed to allow independent retail operators to diversify into PostNet’s digital copy, printing and shipping franchise model. At PostNet, there has always been an understanding and respect associated with the benefits of independent business ownership. In fact, the company began as an individual operator in 1983 and helped guide over 400 entrepreneurs into independent pack and ship stores before launching the PostNet franchise system in 1993.

PostNet is now proud to leverage its heritage and nearly 20-year history in franchising to allow independent operators access to the exceptional support, technology, merchandising and training associated with its award winning brand. Candidates can find more information at www.postnetfranchise.com/conversion. In fact, PostNet recently celebrated the grand opening of its first conversion store in Sunnyvale, California.

“Our proven business system, industry-leading support and world-recognized brand will provide new conversion store owners with the unique opportunity to capitalize on their territory’s potential, serve as the face of the PostNet in the community and set the direction of the market’s growth,” said Steve Greenbaum, CEO and co-founder of PostNet. “In addition, converted stores have the added benefit of being able to cross sell their existing services to both a new and established customer base.”

By converting, new franchisees will not have to pay an initial $29,000 franchisee fee and PostNet will make an upfront investment in training and support. Additionally, new franchisees and their businesses will benefit from:

• Gradual royalty structure
• Territory exclusivity
• One-year free direct mail campaign to promote enhanced services and product offering
• Modern streamlined store design
• Access to PostNet’s world-class training and support featuring regional meetings, virtual classes, field support, financial analysis and access to PostNet’s proprietary systems
• Internet and technology solutions such as web sites, SEO, email, file submission and other tools at no additional cost
• Access to PostNet’s exclusive vendor relationships to expand business and lower costs

“By continuing our tradition of developing new product innovations like our business conversion program while keeping customer service a out top priority, PostNet is well positioned to drive franchisee success,” said Brian Spindel, President and co-founder of PostNet. “We share common objectives with our franchisees, which focuses on building and sustaining a profitable business and strong brand in this increasingly challenging economy.”

PostNet, which offers an array of high demand services and products tailored to meet the needs of business owners and today’s busy consumer, currently has more than 400 locations across the United States and over 850 stores worldwide. Customers can take advantage of dozens of business tools including digital printing and document finishing, computer/Internet rental stations, professional packaging and worldwide shipping via FedEx, UPS, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. PostNet is one of the few locations where customers can compare shipping rates and delivery guarantees between all major carriers and choose the option that’s right for them.

Other services provided by PostNet include full and self service copying, private mailbox rental, mail and parcel receiving and forwarding, worldwide faxing, laminating, notary services, and passport photos, among others. Customers can also purchase postage stamps, packaging materials and additional office supplies.

Edible Arrangements, PostNet, Lawn Doctor, tasti D-lite and Papa Murphy’s host franchise road show in Dallas. While many small businesses work independently to develop their brands nationwide, five of the nation’s leading franchise companies have teamed up to educate entrepreneurs in Dallas on the benefits of franchising. Edible Arrangements, PostNet, Lawn Doctor, tasti D-lite and Papa Murphy’s are all seeking to expand in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area in 2009.

The five franchises are hosting a free “Franchise Road Show” designed to educate aspiring small business owners on the benefits of franchising and the opportunities these national brands have available in the Dallas area. All attendees will also receive a complimentary three-month subscription to leading franchise industry publication, Franchise Times.

The seminar will be held Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 7 p.m. at the Prava Suites by the Galleria, 13402 Noel Road. Those interested in attending should possess a minimum of $100,000 to invest in starting a business. For more information or to register, please visit www.hotfranchiseshow.com.

Details on the participating franchise companies include:

• Edible Arrangements is an international franchise and the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements.
• PostNet is a global network of franchised business centers that specialize in printing, copying and shipping solutions.
• Lawn Doctor provides the highest quality lawn care, tree and shrub care and pest control services to our customers across the nation.
• tasti D-lite is a franchise that offers great-tasting, good-for-you desserts served in a customer-focused environment
• Papa Murphy’s is the fifth-largest pizza chain in the country and the pioneer and leader of the take ‘n’ bake pizza segment.

“Despite the economy, aspiring entrepreneurs have the opportunity to start their own small business through franchising. Edible Arrangements is seeking qualified candidates to join its team in Dallas-Ft. Worth, where we currently operate five locations,” said Tariq Farid, Founder and CEO, Edible Arrangements and the International Franchise Association’s 2009 Entrepreneur of the Year.

Originally published in the Prescott Valley Tribune, Jan. 20, 2009. By Cheryl Hartz, Prescott Valley Tribune.

Barry Tetelbaum signed a contract with PostNet in February of 2005, and after a lengthy search for appropriate office space, will open a new store tomorrow in Prescott Valley at the Glassford Hill Marketplace, next to Kohl’s.

“This just happened to be the opportunity,” Tetelbaum said of the space he leases from Fain Properties.

PostNet is an international franchise offering a variety of mail and printing services. These include: packing and shipping, color or black/white copying and printing, bulk mailings, computer time use, digital services, and private mailboxes for individual or business use. The business also carries some retail materials for packing and mailing.
Customers choose shipping via FedEX, UPS, USPS, DHL, by ground or air.

“PostNet is capable of saving addresses in the computer for future mailings,” said Mark Lovato, a trainer from PostNet’s corporate headquarters in Denver.

With an address already in the computer, and PostNet personnel willing to pack and ship items for the customer, sending off care packages or business boxes couldn’t be easier.

PostNet also provides finishing of documents for a professional look, such as laminating, hole punching, folding and binding. They offer notary service, as well.

It’s a new venture for Tetelbaum, a former retail manager with 25 years of experience, who has lived in Prescott for six years. He and one employee, Jennifer Rudeen, will keep the shop open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rudeen, with a background in photography, will help Tetelbaum with graphic support, he said.

When business warrants it, he will expand hours and services in the 1,200-square-foot space.

“Some PostNet places have more services than others,” he said. “For example, we don’t offer passport photos yet.”

PostNet is at 3298 N. Glassford Hill. Phone number is 759-3700. For more information, visit www.postnet.com.

When visiting the latest business to open next to Fry’s, it’s easy to see that PostNet has the latest, state-of-the-art copying, printing, scanning, digital, sorting, binding, faxing, packing and shipping services available.

In addition, PostNet also offers graphic design, notary and fax services plus private mail boxes.

Owners Dan Fahy and Conrad Cambron had never been in the printing, photocopying, mailing and shipping business before.

However, a PostNet franchise appealed to them, Fahy said, because “they have an incredible support system. They’re available all day from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and we were impressed by their continual support. It’s the best franchise plan. Also, PostNet took care of all interior work including painting and laying the carpet. That was very appealing.”

Nationwide, there are more than 500 PostNet franchises.

Cambron and Fahy are both notaries and they have graphic designer Stacy Laetsch on staff.

Explaining the essence of PostNet, Fahy said, “This is a business model for a small business support center.”

In-store mailboxes are ideal for winter residents and RVers. Part-timers can rent for six months and can receive mail. With a credit card on file, mail can also be forwarded.

Top quality black-and-white and color copies are offered, and customers can choose self-service as well as having copies printed and photocopied for later pickup.

In addition to 8.5-by-11 and 11-by-17 photocopying, PostNet offers 24-by-36 posters in black-and-white or color and digital services. With a quarter-hour minimum, the desktop can be used for Internet, scanning, checking e-mail and digital printing.

A unique holiday present is PostNet’s “Granny Calendar.” Bring in 12 photos of the kids and PostNet will create a nifty spiral-bound calendar.

PostNet also offers UPS, FedEx and U.S. Postal Services plus packing and shipping supplies. In addition, customers can do their own packing or have PostNet do it professionally.

Trained to pack items so they arrive in perfect condition, Fahy said, “We want receivers to call the sender and say, ‘You can’t believe how well this was packed.’”

His message to residents of Sahuarita and Green Valley is upbeat. “We pride ourselves on packaging, top-quality photocopying and printing, but we are here, above all, to provide friendly service.”

PostNet is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday and is closed Sunday. Business accounts are welcome. Phone 300-5404.

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, PostNet will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and will have expanded Saturday hours until Christmas.

Originally published in the Sahuarita Sun, Oct. 21, 2008. By Ellen Sussman, special to the Sahuarita Sun. Photo by Ellen Sussman.

Originally published in the North County News, May 2008. By Bob Dumas

When Keith Fisher retired from a career in law enforcement, he decided he wanted to become a business owner. Exactly what kind of business, he wasn’t sure, so he did some research.

Fisher’s search led him to PostNet, a business that provides mailboxes, shipping, copying and printing for individuals and small businesses.

“When I was looking for a business for myself, this one really interested me because I saw that there was a need in this area,” he said.

The former cop officially opened his store, located at the Somers Common Shopping Center on Route 6 this past January, but he called that a “soft opening.”

“That was so we could iron out all the kinks before the grand opening,” he explained. The store held its grand opening last Friday – an event attended by an array of local dignitaries, including Somers Supervisor Mary Beth Murphy, state Senator Vincent Leibell and state Assemblyman Greg Ball.

Fisher, 40, a Carmel resident, spent two weeks in Denver training to be a PostNet franchise owner. He called the training “intense” but said the lessons learned are passed on to employees to set the business apart from the competition.

“We get compared to places like Kinko’s and Staples, but I own this business,” he said. “We have fabulous customer service. I tell [employees] that everyone is to be greeted with a smile before they put one foot on the carpet. You go in some of these other places and if you have a problem their attitude is, ‘don’t look at me.’”

Fisher said he’s targeting small business and those with home offices as primary customers. PostNet can print business cards, fliers, brochures and banners. He offers shipping through all major carriers and is happy to package items as well.

“[PostNet] is not really recognized in the Northeast yet, but it will come,” he said. “There’s a need for it, even in this down economy. In fact, we got four new accounts last week from businesses trying to reach their pool of customers. This business is kind of recession proof.”

Since opening its first location in 1993, PostNet has been a one-stop shop for the small-business owner. Fifteen years later, the Denver-based company is bringing their signature services to Panama – the first step in the brand’s expansion into Central America.

Pranas Lukauskis, CEO of Panaoutsource & Mail S.A., acquired the master franchise for PostNet in Panama after meeting the PostNet team at a franchise expo in 2007. Panama’s pilot center opened in December 2007 and celebrated its grand opening in January.

Panaoutsource has worked hard to customize their business for the Panamanian market. In addition to global shipping companies such as FedEx, DHL and UPS, PostNet Panama will also utilize the services of regional companies Copa Airlines Courier and Grupo Zoom.

Once the Panama City pilot center is running smoothly, Lukauskis plans to open four additional locations across the country by 2010. Over the next three to five years, he plans to open 15 to 20 locations.

“Our presence in Central America begins in Panama but certainly won’t end there,” said Brian Spindel, PostNet’s co-founder and president. “Over the next few years, we plan to expand into several other Central American countries including Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador and Honduras.”

About PostNet

Founded in 1993, Denver-based PostNet has more than 800 locations worldwide, including several hundred in the United States. Each locally owned and operated PostNet Neighborhood Business Center specializes in meeting the design, printing, copying and shipping needs of businesses and busy consumers, with a focus on exceptional, personal customer service. PostNet centers offer full-service digital printing; full- and self-service copying; document binding and finishing; and services like graphic design, computer rental stations, private mailbox rentals and more. They also offer expert packaging services and shipping with UPS, FedEx, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. To learn more, visit www.postnet.com.

Originally published in the Florida Times-Union at http://jacksonville.com/  on Feb. 10, 2008

By Ashley Beland, The Times-Union

Sheri Mullane, 54, worked as a corporate attorney for Bank of America for more than 10 years. She survived five mergers, maintaining her position in either the mortgage or credit card sectors of the company. She was laid off after the sixth merger with MBNA Corp. and set her sights on opening her own small business. She became a franchisee of PostNet and opened a store in the OakLeaf Plantation community of Clay County.

PostNet offers shipping, digital copy and document services, printing, finishing, and various other services to its wide array of consumers.

The Times-Union sat down with Mullane to discuss how her life has changed since becoming a small-business owner.

After keeping your employment with Bank of America through five mergers, what ultimately led to you losing your position? I started out by supporting the mortgage department, and in the last two years I was switched to credit cards. I was the legal liaison between the credit card servicing and collections area. When we merged with MBNA, Bank of America decided it would keep all the attorneys from MBNA and lay off the attorneys from Bank of America in the credit cards legal department.

What influenced you to change your career path and take the small business venture? Two things: I’m not licensed in Florida, and I didn’t want to take another Bar exam. I was only permitted to work in-house in Florida because I had a Bar certificate. I had a difficult time trying to find an in-house position, and I refused to move from Florida. Also, my late husband’s dog, Max, was 15 years old, and I didn’t think he could survive a move or commute. I was not willing to lose Max. I asked myself what else I could do with my life. I started looking at franchises online because it would give me the option of being my own boss while having the backing of the franchiser.

How does your workday differ today in contrast to your work with Bank of America? It’s a totally different career. Although you don’t need a college degree to own a franchise, you need an engineering degree to understand the copy machines and equipment. It’s a learning experience because I’ve never done this before. It’s a different skill set, but my experience with management and budgeting has helped.

How do you cope with any challenges that arise from being a first-time business owner? I fortunately have the support of my brother, his family, friends and PostNet headquarters. The PostNet headquarters and its support staff really do everything they can to be helpful to new store owners because the more successful we are, the more successful they are.

Why did you choose PostNet instead of another franchise opportunity? I’d heard of the other competitors, but not PostNet. I went to a Web site that had information on a variety of franchises. What stood out for me was how the founders of PostNet, Steven Greenbaum and Brian Spindel, took a very active part and interest in the franchisees. When a person is interested in a franchise of PostNet, they assign a mentor to teach you about the company. My mentor was Rick Greenbaum, whom I found to be very knowledgeable, interested in what I wanted to get out of being a franchisee, and informative about the opportunities PostNet offered.

How does PostNet set itself apart from other businesses that offer similar goods and services? I think store owners for PostNet are much more customer-oriented. We do things on a much more individual basis and take an interest in our customers. Also, when you have a store like our competitors, they only offer one shipping option. For example a UPS store will only ship UPS. PostNet offers customers the ability to ship DHL, UPS, FedEx or the U.S. Postal Service. More importantly, I think PostNet offers convenience with a smile and professional attitude.

How do you plan to make your business stand out in the Orange Park community? I intend to do that by making sure I listen to my customers and supplying the business needs and consumer needs they tell me they want. Also, by providing the services the community needs in a professional and friendly manner.
What strategies are you using to build a client base? Headquarters has a marketing department that supports franchisees in their first year. Additionally, the three stores around the Orange Park area form a co-op, where we combine marketing campaigns. These other stores are like a family. Their assistance and guidance has been invaluable. Individually, I joined Business Networking International, the Chamber of Commerce and put advertisements in local newspapers.
What does being a small-business owner offer you that being a corporate attorney did not? The ability to make my own decisions and be the master of my own destiny. Whether I succeed or not is up to my own perseverance, determination and abilities. It’s hard work and long hours, but it’s more meaningful because it is my livelihood. I’m making the decisions.