1. What was your background (personal, educational, commercial) before you invested in the franchise?
I served in the Air Force for 27 years and retired in 2012. During my early years in the military, I attended college in the evenings and earned my BS in Elementary Education from Gwynedd Mercy College, followed by a master’s degree in early childhood education from Arcadia University.
My first franchise investment was KidsPark (hourly childcare), which I purchased in 2011. I recently sold that franchise in October of this year after operating it successfully for nearly 15 years.
2. When did you join the franchise and what stage of your business journey are you at?
Once my childcare business was running smoothly, my husband and I felt ready to open a second franchise—something completely different. After researching several options, POSTNET stood out. I’m always looking for ways to challenge myself, and with zero experience in printing or shipping, I knew this would push me to grow. We purchased the franchise in April 2019.
We opened our doors in February 2020, just three weeks before COVID hit and everything shut down. It was devastating, but we pushed through. I’m proud to say we are approaching our sixth year in business.
3. Did you consider any other franchises before investing in this particular brand? What influenced your decision?
Yes. Once we decided we wanted to enter the shipping and printing industry, we looked at another concept. However, we felt like just a number during that process.
When we spoke with the POSTNET team, the experience was completely different. They treated us like family, took time to understand who we were, and genuinely wanted to determine whether we were the right fit—not rush us into a decision. That personal connection sealed it for us.
4. What is your view of the franchise’s product/service? What competitive advantages or disadvantages does it have?
POSTNET offers a wide range of services and multiple income streams, which is extremely valuable—especially in the early stages before the print business ramps up.
Our biggest advantages are customer service and the personal touch we bring to every project. If we see an error, we’ll let customers know before printing. That’s not something you typically get from online printers or big-box print shops. We take the time to understand what the project is for, and whether there are better options for the customer.
The biggest disadvantage is brand familiarity. With a smaller footprint, POSTNET isn’t widely known in some areas. I’ve had to educate customers on what we offer—but once they know, they are usually excited.
5. What initial training and support did you receive? Was anything missing?
The training and support were excellent. Every step of the process was supported, and I always had someone I could call with a question or problem. With no print experience, it was a steep learning curve, but I never felt alone.
6. What is the ongoing support like?
Communication has always been great. We have systems in place that allow franchisees to submit tickets that route directly to the appropriate department. This helps them quickly identify whether an issue is isolated or widespread.
We also have a Regional Director who is always just a phone call away.
7. How easy or difficult has it been to market the franchise locally? How does the franchisor support marketing?
Marketing locally has been relatively easy for me. I was a member of BNI for my first three to four years, which generated significant business. I’m also part of a very active chamber of commerce that hosts regular events—excellent networking opportunities.
On the franchisor side, our Regional Directors hold monthly meetings focused on marketing, sales, and business growth.
8. How long was it before you saw a return on investment?
Due to COVID, it took us nearly five years to see a return on investment.
9. Were there any unexpected costs?
Yes. We had to financially carry our POSTNET location for several years because of COVID. Printing also took longer to ramp up, as many local businesses were closed or working remotely.
10. What have been your biggest challenges to date, and how did you overcome them? What help did the franchisor provide?
COVID was by far our biggest challenge. We overcame it through persistence—continuing to network, attending events, and dropping off our information at nearby businesses.
The franchisor and network of other franchisees were always available when we needed assistance.
11. What does your working day/week look like?
Every day is different, and that’s what I love. There are always new projects, and I often need to do research to ensure I’m giving customers the best possible recommendations. I enjoy working directly with customers—whether that means assisting with a special gift shipment or helping giving input on designing an invitation.
12. What is being part of the franchise network like?
The franchisee community is one of my favorite parts of POSTNET. Everyone is helpful and willing to assist. We also have a forum where franchisees can ask questions and share advice, and Regional Directors regularly contribute as well.
13. Has the franchise met your needs and expectations?
Yes, it has exceeded my expectations.
14. Is there anything you would do differently in your business journey?
I would get out more and introduce myself to more local businesses earlier.
15. If you could start again, would you still buy this same franchise?
Absolutely. I enjoy what I do, and going to work each day doesn’t feel like a job.