PostNet

PostNet offers a host of services including MAILBOX rental, direct mail, graphic design and shipping and packing services. In many respects, they provide useful conveniences for businesses and people on the go. HOWEVER, the Mailbox Service is abused. Many businesses and solo practitioners that show up on the internet display as being local merchants. While it's hard to begrudge enterprising people from trying to succeed, there are some downsides and risks that clearly outweigh any benefit derived from these tactics. For small businesses in particular, the goodwill they earn in the local marketplace enhances their reputation and viability. It reinforces their image and is a critical source of value should they want to sell their business at some point. Mailboxes are often used by businesses operating under various names to unfairly game market share. The mailbox number is often the equivalent of a "suite number". These proxy businesses cause a loss of potential revenue to other local businesses and can make the difference between success and failure. Also, the use of P. O. Boxes violates Google's Terms of Service if they catch on since their goal is to ensure a safe and reliable business landscape. Some risks involve the reduced accountability should something seriously go wrong with a transaction. So how does this manage to fly under the radar? Sites like YELP and Facebook have low standards and accept zero accountability as they claim algorithms, not humans, are really in charge. So, the question we should ask ourselves is what can we do to correct this? We write reviews, talk about it in an open forum and try to promote positive change. A mailbox is not an address.