The January/February 2026 Edition of MBC Today

Here's the most recent edition MBC Today, including my letter from the editor and a link to the digital version preview of the magazine (the full version is an exclusive benefit for its subscribers).

Thank you to all who contributed to this issue of the retail print, mailbox, packing, shipping, logistics, and business center industry's leading publication, keeping both independent and franchise stores across the country up to date, in the loop, and networked together. It's a privilege to produce and edit this publication, but it's because of your hard work that it has such rich content.

Preview version: https://ambc4me.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/MBC-Today-Volume-28-Issue-1-Preview-Version.pdf

Letter From the Editor:

Dear Readers,

I feel like many of us were just together in Denver and now we're gearing up to grow again in New Orleans. Indeed, 2026 is shaping up to be a great networking year, with event after event coming into view. It's exciting!

I can't stress enough the value of networking at industry events...and at community events. The industry events provide specific training from industry peers, mentorship opportunities, and a chance to get out of your normal setting and into a creative learning space so that you can work on your business instead of working in your business. And the community events provide a chance to show your guests, clients, and neighbors that you're not just operating a business to take, but rather you're part of your local community to give back. Both of these types of events are essential.

I'm also extremely excited about the addition of AMBC's three exceptional new board members: Kristina, JJ, and Kris. I know each of these amazing humans—some very well after years of being peers—and can attest to their "members helping members" spirit, which is essential to guide this important non-profit association of ours.

I'm also very excited to see Tommy take the helm as the new AMBC Board Chair after Crysta has completed her terms...though we'll certainly miss Crysta's leadership. You may not know this, but Tommy and I are birthday twins, born just one year apart on the same day, and he is someone in whom I have complete trust and confidence to do the right thing, lead with empathy, and be an example of what a business owner with integrity should be.

For 2026, I hope you've made some resolutions...and if you haven't yet, why not make one now? Who says it has to be exactly on January 1st anyway!?

Resolve to network more, both in your local community and in your industry. Go to events. Do whatever it takes to get there, even if it means closing your store for a day or two. The value provided far exceeds the minor disruption at home. I promise.

Networking has been the not-so-secret secret to my success and to the success of nearly every single store owner that you see sharing in this magazine, helpfully posting on forums, and taking on leadership roles.

Here's to a wonderful, profitable, brand spankin' new year of growth—growth of networks, growth of teams, growth of excellence, growth of kindness, growth of empathy, and, of course, growth of bottom lines.

Onward!

Marty Johnson (he/him)

Founder | Uncle Marty's
Columnist | Ask Uncle Marty™
Editor & Producer | MBC Today
Communication & Vision Lead | AYM High Consultants
Co-Host | To-Be-Announced Podcast Launching Spring 2026

askunclemarty.com · @askunclemarty