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Black owners of UPS franchise making a difference in Western New York

Their UPS store offers various services, including shipping, delivery, paper printing, and fingerprinting.

Black owners of UPS franchise  making a difference in Western New York
Kelechi Chillis-Ihenko and his father bought a UPS store franchise in Buffalo, becoming the first to own a franchise in Western New York. LINKEDIN PHOTO

Kelechi Chillis-Ihenko, a University of Buffalo graduate, grew up in a community that lacked essential services. Now, he and his father are on a mission to bridge this gap and make a positive impact after taking ownership of a UPS franchise in December 2022.

"In Buffalo, there has always been a shortage of essential services, and I personally experienced this while growing up. So, having the opportunity to address this need is truly amazing," explained Kelechi, as reported by WKBW-TV.

Their UPS store offers various services, including shipping, delivery, paper printing, and fingerprinting. Notably, many local hospitals refer individuals to their stores for fingerprinting services, making it a vital resource for those needing background checks and investigative work.

The owners say what sets their business apart is their vision for the future. The Chillis-Ihenko team plans to transform the rear side of the building into apartments, creating affordable workforce housing. Additionally, they are working on securing office spaces that can be used by visiting entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive environment for business growth.

"We're not just here to run a business; we have a deep commitment to our community," said Kelechi. "We are dedicated to staying and becoming an integral part of this community," he added.