Mail Boxes Etc. - Twin Falls

When Chris and Vickie Johannson left New Hampshire in July 2001, they planned to retire in Challis, near where Vickie was raised. But while their love for Idaho stuck, retirement didn’t.

Chris, a former air traffic controller, returned to that profession at the Hailey airport. Meanwhile Vickie, while mailing packages one day at the Twin Falls Mail Boxes Etc., learned the owners were planning to sell the business. With her natural affinity for people and customer service, she was immediately intrigued — enough so that the couple once again packed up their belongings and moved to Twin Falls to take over the business.

Turning to the Idaho Small Business Development Center for assistance with their business plan and projections, they successfully negotiated with the owners and Wells Fargo Bank and received an SBA loan for $79,000. The couple officially took over the business in December 2001.

The Johannsons have made substantial changes to the business, including new equipment, computer programs, networking and several new products. The business has met and exceeded Vickie’s expectations — she loves what she is doing and has also found an outlet for her creative side. Utilizing her gift for photography, she has taken some of her favorite photographs and, using her new equipment, printed them on mouse pads she then sells in the store. Printing customers’ personal photos on the pads has created another revenue stream.

Vickie routinely takes the time to review her clients’ needs, consolidating packages to save them money, or offering them the best service possible. Her efforts don’t go unrecognized; she has a steady stream of new clients from referrals.

As the business grows, Chris comes in to help on his days off. Mail Boxes Etc. is well on its way to success.