Franchisee Voices: Blair Nicol of FranNet

Blair launched his business career in 1987 as an Area Franchisee for Mail Boxes Etc. (MBE). He and his family built the San Diego area to over 60 MBE franchises. In 1996, the Area Franchise was then sold back to MBE Global Headquarters, after becoming one of the largest and most successful area franchises in Mail Boxes Etc's history. Mail Boxes Etc. now known as The UPS Store, is now the largest postal, business and communications franchise in the world, with over 1.5 billion dollars in annual sales.

With his unparalleled experience in not only franchising, but also Mail Boxes Etc., Mail Boxes Etc. Global Headquarters in 1997 asked Blair to join the global headquarters staff and become the National Sales Manager for Non-Traditional Development and Special Projects. There, he doubled the sales of the department in less than one year. He was also part of the team to develop MBE's first unmanned business opportunity, otherwise known and MBE Business Express.

After a year of working with a globally recognized franchise corporation, Blair soon realized it was once again time to work for himself and help others live The American Dream of owning their own business. In 1998, Blair joined FranNet and is now FranNet's associate and owner for the offices of Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alaska, San Diego and Orange County. He is also one of the 4 principal owners of the Global FranNet Corporation with over 50 offices in North America. He also currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the parent company for FranNet.

How did you learn about the brand? 

I had always known the founder of FranNet, Howard Bassuk, and worked on a couple projects with him during my time at Mail Boxes Etc. When we sold the master license in 1997, I called him and asked if the San Diego area was available and purchased FranNet San Diego in 1998. In 2006, I acquired Orange County and Southern Los Angeles County. Last year we merged the Pacific Northwest with the Southern California offices; I am currently based in Oregon. In my tenure, I have placed at least 300 people. My brother and I are the owners of FranNet Pacific Northwest and Southern CA and we currently have four associates and are looking to add more.

What was appealing to you about joining the consulting industry?

I have always been involved in franchise development and thought that FranNet was a neat company that truly helped people. I also enjoyed the coaching and matching aspect, and felt that FranNet perfectly matched my skill sets. Additionally, there is a sense of giving back and helping the community and the economy by enabling someone to achieve their dreams of business ownership.

What was appealing to you about joining the franchise industry?

I was born into it – my family has always been involved in franchising. When we sold Mail Boxes Etc and the UPS Store, I wanted to stay in franchising.  

What makes your business different?

Our business is different because we have a real impact on the economy and people’s lives. For those people that follow their dreams, we have a strong helping hand. There is a big difference between our business and any other business. Unlike our competition, we own the local markets and are the local experts on franchising.

ABOUT FRANNET

FranNet is a U.S. and Canadian leader for matching individuals with franchise opportunities. Based in Louisville, Ky., FranNet has nearly 90 consultants across the U.S. and Canada who use a proprietary profiling and consultative process to determine a candidates ideal business model including goals, skill sets and interests. They have matched thousands of entrepreneurs to rewarding small business opportunities.  Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing private companies in America for the last three years, this year marks the 25th anniversary for FranNet. For more information, visit www.frannet.com. 

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