THE UPS STORE

The concept began in 1980 under the name Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE), created as a more convenient alternative to the post office. In 2001, United Parcel Service (UPS) acquired Mail Boxes Etc. to expand its retail presence. By 2003, thousands of MBE locations in the U.S. were rebranded as The UPS Store, forming the modern brand. Today, my store, one of about 5400 across the country, operates as part of a franchise system, meaning most locations are independently owned and operated, even though they carry the UPS brand. (This distinction matters) THE UPS STORE is part of the UPS ecosystem, but it functions as a retail storefront network, not the same as the delivery/logistics operations of UPS itself. The UPS Store's core business services are the following: Shipping & Packaging: Packing items (including fragile or oversized goods), Shipping via UPS and other carriers, & Freight and international shipping Mail & Postal Services: Personal or business mailboxes with real street addresses, receiving packages from multiple carriers, & Mail forwarding and holding Printing & Design: Flyers, posters, business cards, banners, window graphics, training materials, yard signs,s and A-frame signage & Graphic design assistance for marketing materials Business & Office Services: Notary services, Faxing, scanning, Document shredding for security, and Office and mailing supplies

The printing side of The UPS Store is actually one of its biggest differentiators—it’s not just an add-on service, it’s designed to compete with dedicated print shops while staying convenient. We cover both everyday and professional printing needs, which is why a lot of small businesses rely on us. Things like business cards, brochures, flyers, posters, banners, and signs, presentations and reports, invitations, postcards, and marketing mailers. The UPS Store partners with Junior Achievement, which is centered on supporting youth education, entrepreneurship, and future small business owners. It’s not just a sponsorship—it’s an ongoing, nationwide initiative with several moving parts. Customers are asked at checkout if they want to donate (or round up their purchase). Donations are collected across all 5400+ locations, but the funds go to local Junior Achievement chapters, supporting programs in our community.

What I love most about being part of the Ridgefield community is how genuinely welcoming and supportive people have been—from the very beginning. What started as a simple idea years ago has grown into something meaningful, thanks in large part to the encouragement and trust of this community. It’s been incredibly rewarding to build something here, get to know our customers, and create a place that serves both individuals and local businesses. Ridgefield isn’t just where I opened a store—it’s a community I’m proud to be part of.

It truly needs to be said how much I appreciate the surrounding businesses and the people behind them. The owners and managers in the area have gone out of their way to welcome me, and that kind of support means a lot. Building relationships with them has been one of the most rewarding parts of opening here—it’s a pleasure to know them and to work alongside such a strong local business community. And on a lighter note, I have to mention one of my favorite small joys: every time I step into Eight Cow Creamery, the smell alone is enough to make my day. It’s those little moments that really make being part of this community special.