Signal Graphics Business Center vs Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise Comparison

Below is an in-depth analysis and side-by-side comparison of Signal Graphics Business Center vs Mail Boxes Etc. including start-up costs and fees, business experience requirements, training & support and financing options.

Start-Up Costs and Fees

 
Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise
Investment $159,000 - $201,000$154,950 - $293,500
Franchise Fee $25,000$29,900
Royalty Fee 5%6%
Advertising Fee -2%
Year Founded 19741990
Year Franchised 19821990
Term Of Agreement 20 years10 years +10
Term Of Agreement 20 years10 years +10
Renewal Fee --


Business Experience Requirements

 
Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise
Experience
  • General business experience
  • Marketing skills
  • -

    Financing Options

     
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
    Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise
      In-House/3rd PartyIn-House/3rd Party
    Franchise Fees No/Yes-/-
    Start-up Costs No/Yes-/-
    Equipment No/Yes-/-
    Inventory No/Yes-/-
    Receivables No/Yes-/-
    Payroll No/Yes-/-

    Training & Support

     
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
    Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise
    Training -1. Corporate Office 2 Weeks

    2. Center 1.5 Weeks

    Support Newsletter, Meetings, Toll-free phone line, Grand opening, Internet, Security/safety procedures, Field operations/evaluationsCentral Data Processing: At Additional Cost

    Central Purchasing

    Field Operation Evaluation

    Field Training

    Initial Store Opening: At Additional Cost

    Franchisee Newsletter

    Regional or National Meetings: At Additional Cost

    Marketing Co-op advertising, Ad slicks, National media, Regional advertising-
    Operations 3% of all franchisees own more than one unit

    Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 1 - 2

    Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed. (95% of current franchisees are owner/operators)

    Average Number of Employees: 2 Full-time, 1 Part-time

    Passive Ownership: Allowed, But Discouraged


    Expansion Plans

     
    Signal Graphics Business Center Franchise
    Mail Boxes Etc. Franchise
    US Expansion YesYes
    Canada Expansion NoYes
    International Expansion NoYes

    Company Overviews

    About Signal Graphics Business Center

    In 1974, Stephen Morris founded Stop & Go Printing, a Denver, Colorado, printing center that combined typesetting, quick printing, copying and commercial printing. The company began franchising in 1982. Six years later, Stop & Go Printing changed its name to Signal Graphics. Today the company offers computer graphic services, copying, commercial printing, packaging and shipping services.
    You have unshakable ambition, a dedicated work ethic and a deep desire to succeed. Signal Graphics can help you achieve it. Independence. Unlimited growth potential. Go after your dream.


    About Mail Boxes Etc.

    MBE Service Centers facilitate the activities of entrepreneurs, businesses and private consumers through a platform of digital-ready shipping, fulfillment, marketing, e-commerce and print solutions delivered with a distinguished and unique level of customer service.
    Mail Boxes Etc. offers you all the quality business services you need, right in your neighbourhood. Whether it's copying and digital printing solutions, document services, great shipping options, our full-service packaging, or mailbox services, you can get it done at your neighborhood Mail Boxes Etc. location. Mail Boxes Etc. franchisees are ready to make your business easier at over 257 locations across Canada.