David Druker draws on extensive experience in operations, retail sales and franchising in his position as President of MBEC Communications Inc., the Master License Franchisor of The UPS Store in Canada.
David was introduced to this winning concept and the franchise during a visit to the US. He was so intrigued by the concept that he applied for a franchise in his native Montreal. In 2005, David acquired the Area Rights for the province, which consisted at that time of seven existing stores in Quebec. Under his leadership, the province enjoyed an 18% average annual increase in same store sales, and an expansion to 23 franchises in Quebec.
David has now turned his focus and attention to the whole of the network by purchasing the corporate operations and the master license for The UPS Store in Canada in late 2008. He aims to repeat the successes enjoyed in the province of Quebec across Canada.
BeTheBoss - What is The UPS Store franchise opportunity all about?
David Druker - When people think of The UPS Store, they immediately think of shipping while, in fact, there is so much more available. The UPS Store franchised locations offer small and medium sized businesses a true “one-stop shop” for reliable and efficient business, printing and courier services supported by a brand that customers know they can rely on.
The UPS Store franchise opportunity offers our franchisees the prospect of becoming a part of a globally recognized and well respected brand. Our opportunity allows our franchisees to join a network that is over 330 strong and growing; to join a network that is the largest chain of print & copy shops; and to join a network that is the largest franchised chain of business service centres in Canada.
BTB - Who is your ideal candidate for a The UPS Store franchise?
DD - Who has “the right stuff” for The UPS Store concept? This is an opportunity for people who are driven, determined & willing to take advantage of the demographic and business shifts in today’s world. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals who are self-determined; energetic; business experienced and wanting to be a part of a proven system that works.
BTB - What type of training and support do you offer The UPS Store?
DD - A fully comprehensive training program is provided to new franchisees that enter The UPS Store network. Training is broken out into 4 distinct phases:
- 40 hours of in-store pre-training at an existing The UPS Store franchise
- 11 days of training in a classroom setting at the corporate offices of The UPS Store in Oakville, ON
- Minimum 80 hours of in-store post-training work experience
- Ongoing education includes such programs as regional & national conferences, webinars, network meetings, local workshops
BTB - What are some of the advantages in being a The UPS Store franchisee?
DD - The UPS Store offers many advantages for our network of franchisees:
- Worldwide brand recognition
- Purchasing strength of being Canada’s number one business services franchise
- National and local advertising programs
- Strategic alliances with Xerox, Ikon, Sears Canada and, of course, UPS
- True “turnkey” operation
- Protected area
- Extensive training both prior to store opening, and after
BTB - Are you a member of any Associations?
DD - We are active members of the CFA
BTB - Tell us a little about the Business Services Market?
DD - The major growth trend toward self-employment and home-based businesses has created a need to provide support services. The business services market essentially is the sector of business that provides this support. Simply out, we provide the behind-the-scenes support that a larger office would generally have and a small office needs, without the added staff expense. Nearly 90% of all businesses in Canada are small businesses with less than 20 people and it’s the small business sector that’s keeping our economy going. Really, in order for any business to succeed, it needs a strong support system. The retail business services market exists, and is growing, to service that need. Needless to say, The UPS Store is a key player in this market with our three core services: document printing and finishing; mail services and packaging and courier services.
BTB - How successful is your company today and what are your future growth plans?
DD - Our company has over 330 locations in Canada and is part of a global network of over 6,000 (includes The UPS Store locations and Mail Boxes Etc.). We anticipate opening between 30 to 35 new locations in Canada this year, despite the economic climate, and anticipate doubling our footprint in Canada within the next 10 years.
BTB - What are your franchisees saying about the business?
DD - The UPS Store is a respected retail franchise operation that works when you follow the system.
BTB - What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
DD - Owning a franchise can be a most rewarding experience. Statistics show that those who purchase a franchise, are more likely to succeed than those going into business independently. But like any business, franchising is not without risk and hard work.
Before you acquire any franchise, take the time to research and understand what franchising as a concept is, and then the franchising opportunities available in Canada. Of course, be sure to include The UPS Store as one of those opportunities!
BTB - In your opinion, why do you think that The UPS Store would be a great opportunity for someone?
DD - With The UPS Store, a prospective franchisee can feel confident in the stability of a strong franchise system that is well-respected in the industry.
