Small Town ⇒ Unlimited Potential
The UPS Store prides itself on delivering high-quality business services no matter where you live. We believe that all business owners should have access to the same caliber of resources and expertise available in larger metropolitans, a challenge felt by rural communities across the country.
The UPS Store seeks to overcome these challenges by bringing top notch shipping, packing, mailing, and printing services to small towns far off the mainstream path, and both business owners and The UPS Store franchisees are winning as a result.
Why Build a Franchise in a Rural Market?
Smaller markets generally mean fewer people to serve, but our business model helps franchisees use smaller populations to their advantage.
There’s More Opportunity
Rural communities offer fewer businesses than larger cities, which gives you more opportunities to find the perfect location. Depending on the area, slower real estate markets may give you more time to consider your location options without the risk of you missing out on your top property choices.
There’s Less Competition
Having fewer businesses in the area means less competition. You get a better chance for increased visibility knowing that your nearest competitor may be several towns away. Without larger competitors right next door, you can better position yourself as both a community leader and businesses services expert.
It’s More Affordable
The cost of living and doing business in rural areas tend to be lower than that of large cities. Real estate is usually cheaper in smaller markets, which means you can get more square footage per dollar. Utilities and other operating costs may also present cost-saving opportunities to help you boost profitability.
To make your franchise more affordable, The UPS Store created the Main Street franchise model for franchisees opening their business in a small town or rural community. This low-cost franchise option offers a reduced fee and significant savings on other start-up costs, with initial costs to begin your franchise ranging from $218,148 - $419,226.*
*These prices are subject to change. Please refer to our Franchise Disclosure Document for current pricing.
Build Strong Relationships Within Your Community
Your business’s success is dependent on building strong relationships with your customers. Small and rural communities are widely known for an “everyone knows everyone” culture, a place where there are no strangers, only friends.
As a franchisee, you offer something that many other businesses cannot: the high-quality products and services of a large company with a local business owner mentality. Customers get the best of both worlds when they visit The UPS Store. In essence, you’re a small business owner helping other small business owners meet their goals, and that’s an advantage larger organizations can’t compete with.
Serving a smaller group of customers gives you the opportunity to get to know many of them on a personal level. As an added benefit, they also get to know you, which creates the perfect conditions for repeat business, referrals, and never-ending support.