MBE Worldwide, a global third-party logistics, printing and communications services network under the Mail Boxes Etc. brand, has acquired design, printing, marketing and communications franchisor AlphaGraphics. MBE Worldwide’s network will now include approximately 2,600 AlphaGraphics locations in 39 countries, including nearly 500 in the U.S. The move follows MBE’s acquisition of the U.S.-based PostNet franchise system in April.

AlphaGraphics will continue to operate as an independent company and will retain its current management team. AlphaGraphics’ headquarters will remain in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the companies will retain their individual names, business concepts and brands.

“This is an exciting development for the AlphaGraphics franchise system,” says Gay Burke, AlphaGraphics executive chair. “Combining forces with MBE Worldwide creates unique opportunities to synergize with colleagues similarly steeped in managing a franchise-based network of entrepreneurs.”

Both companies currently operate in the business services industry through a network of locations owned and operated by individual franchisees. AlphaGraphics focuses on graphic design, printing, marketing and communication services, while MBE concentrates on shipping, micro-, and related retail logistics services.

Paolo Fiorelli, chairman and CEO of MBE, adds, “AlphaGraphics is an excellent strategic fit for MBE because of its entrepreneur-driven, people-centric, customer-first business model, which complements our MBE business and culture. Also, AlphaGraphics has earned a reputation for technological and service excellence in the highly competitive print, marketing and communications industry in the U.S. We are excited to welcome AlphaGraphics to the MBE family and will work together to provide high-value solutions to our business and consumer customers across the globe.”