9 July 2026
Starting a franchise business means being able to rely on the support of an established brand and structure. Before opening, it is important to understand what support the franchisor provides in areas such as finance, area selection, finding the right premises and preparing the business for launch.
The level of support can vary from one network to another. For this reason, before making a decision it is important to understand the process, the responsibilities of each party and the resources available to launch the project.
What does the process look like before opening a franchise?
The process of becoming a franchisee varies depending on the network, but it usually includes several stages: understanding the business model, assessing the candidate’s profile and financial capacity, analysing the viability of the project and defining the conditions required to start operating.
Before moving forward, it is also useful to review the questions to ask before opening a franchise and understand the process of becoming an MBE franchisee.
Financial support
Existing agreements with banking institutions can make it easier for certain candidates to access financing, although applicants must always meet the conditions and criteria established by each financial institution.
Another option is to use solutions such as leasing for certain elements of the initial investment, particularly assets that depreciate over time. This can help reduce the initial cash outlay and spread part of the cost over a longer period.
At Mail Boxes Etc., the experience developed over more than 40 years has enabled the network to reach financing agreements with institutions such as BBVA, Banco Sabadell and Cajamar. These agreements are intended for candidates who want to start a business with MBE and may help finance part of the initial investment or working capital.
Regardless of the financing option chosen, it is important to understand the terms and prepare a profit and loss forecast that allows the financial viability of the project to be assessed.
How do you choose the right location for a franchise?
When the business model requires physical premises, selecting the right area is one of the most important steps before opening. Factors such as competition, local business activity, the profile of potential customers and the proximity of other centres within the network should be considered.
At Mail Boxes Etc., during the initial franchise process, a personalised viability study of the proposed area is carried out using tools that make it possible to analyse the volume and type of potential customers and assess the exclusivity area associated with the Centre.
Choosing and fitting out the premises
Once the area has been defined, the next step is to select premises whose characteristics suit the activity. The Expansion Manager is involved in the validation of the premises and in the subsequent launch process, coordinating brand requirements related to design, decoration, signage, furniture, accessories and equipment.
The level of support can vary between franchise networks. In the case of Mail Boxes Etc., the candidate is supported during the selection process and, once the premises have been chosen, a dedicated team works with the future franchisee on the fit-out and pre-opening of the Centre.
What support does a franchisee receive after opening?
Support does not necessarily end once the business opens. From that point onwards, ongoing training, operational support and marketing become especially important.
You can learn more about this second stage in our guide to the support a franchisee receives after opening.
