Mail Boxes Etc Inc. an ups company is the world's largest franchisor of retail shipping, postal and business service centers. The ups store and Mail Boxes Etc. The Mail Boxes Etc. concept was introduced in 1980 as a convenient alternative to the post office. Throughout its evolution, it has continued to define and lead the business services category it created. In 2001, UPS acquired Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. In 2003, the two companies introduced the ups Store brand.