The UPS Store FDD Item 12: Territory | Lopes Law LLC - Lopes Law LLC | National Franchise Law Firm

The UPS Store FDD Item 12: Territory | Lopes Law LLC

FDD Brand Analysis

The UPS Store FDD Item 12: Territory | What Franchisees Need to Know

The UPS Store FDD Item 12: Territory - Lopes Law LLC

The UPS Store is one of the largest shipping, printing, and business services franchise systems in the United States, with average revenue of approximately $721,000 per location. For prospective franchisees, FDD Item 12 contains a critical disclosure: The UPS Store does not grant exclusive or protected territories. This means the franchisor can open additional locations near your store at any time.

At Lopes Law LLC, we review The UPS Store FDDs regularly, and the absence of territorial protection is one of the most significant risk factors we discuss with clients. This guide explains what non-exclusive territory means for your investment.

What Does Non-Exclusive Territory Mean?

When The UPS Store states that franchisees do not receive exclusive or protected territories, this means the franchisor retains full discretion to place additional franchise or company-owned locations anywhere in the market, including directly adjacent to your store. There is no guaranteed minimum distance between locations, no population-based density limit, and no right of first refusal on new nearby locations.

Territory FeatureThe UPS StoreTypical Franchise
Exclusive TerritoryNot grantedOften granted with defined boundaries
Protected AreaNot grantedRadius or population-based protection common
Geographic DescriptionMap with area description (non-binding)Contractually defined boundaries
Minimum Territory SizeNo minimumUsually defined by radius or demographics
Right of First RefusalNot disclosedCommon in many systems
Franchisor Competition RightsFull rights retainedOften restricted within territory

Attorney’s note: At Lopes Law LLC, we always flag non-exclusive territory provisions as a significant risk factor. With average revenue of $721,000 and investments of $209,000 to $495,000, a new UPS Store location a mile from yours could reduce your revenue by 20% to 30%, turning a viable investment into a marginal one. We recommend analyzing the current UPS Store density in your market and the franchisor’s expansion plans before committing capital.

Reviewing a UPS Store FDD Right Now?

At Lopes Law LLC, our $3,000 flat-fee FDD validation review covers all 23 items, including territory risk analysis. Free 20-minute consultation.

For guidance, see our territory encroachment guide, our FDD review guide, and our franchise exit audit service.

Important: Territory information is based on publicly available UPS Store FDD data. Actual terms vary. Always review the current FDD with a qualified franchise attorney before investing.

Frequently Asked Questions About The UPS Store FDD Item 12

Does The UPS Store grant exclusive territories? +
No. The UPS Store does not grant exclusive or protected territories. The franchise agreement includes a map and description of a geographic area surrounding your center, but franchisees do not receive exclusivity. The franchisor may open company-owned stores or approve additional franchises near your location.
What territory does The UPS Store provide? +
The UPS Store franchise agreement includes a geographic area surrounding the center described by a map and written description. However, this area is not exclusive. There is no minimum territory size, and the territory depends on market factors. The franchisor reserves full rights over territory decisions and market expansion.
Can The UPS Store open locations near my store? +
Yes. Because The UPS Store does not grant exclusive or protected territories, the franchisor can open company-owned or franchised locations near your store at any time. This creates direct same-brand competition risk for franchisees.
How does non-exclusive territory affect UPS Store profitability? +
Non-exclusive territory means your revenue can be impacted by the addition of nearby UPS Store locations that divert customers. Shipping and business services customers generally choose the most convenient location, so a new store a few blocks away will directly compete for your customers.
How does The UPS Store territory compare to competitors? +
The UPS Store’s non-exclusive territory provision is less favorable than many franchise systems that provide at least a protected area or radius-based restriction. Prospective franchisees should weigh the brand strength and business model against the territory risk when comparing franchise options.
Should I hire a franchise lawyer to review UPS Store territory provisions? +
Yes. A non-exclusive territory is a significant risk factor. A franchise attorney can assess the competitive landscape around your proposed location, evaluate the practical likelihood of additional nearby stores, and explain the legal implications. At Lopes Law LLC, our flat-fee FDD validation review covers all 23 items for $3,000.

Reach out, we are friendly. Call now for a free consultation at (267) 777-9117 or schedule your free 20-minute consultation online.

Last updated: March 12, 2026

Understand Territory Risks Before You Sign

At Lopes Law LLC, our flat-fee FDD validation review covers territory risk analysis for The UPS Store. Free 20-minute consultation.

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