20 January 2025
A petition has been launched challenging the Government to scrutinise any planned changes to Royal Mail's 'Universal Service Obligations (USOs)' following a number of cost increases and poor service fines in recent times.
The petition, launched by the Greeting Card Association, insists that any changes to Royal Mail's USOs should be dependent on the company meeting existing performance and delivery targets for letters and cards, along with an expectation for Royal Mail to regulate the price of 1st class mail to 'avoid further above inflation increases.'
Amanda Fergusson, CEO of Greeting Card Association, said: "We met with Ofcom...and they confirmed that they have made no decisions yet, but will be launching a 10-week public consultation later this month with their proposals for USO reform and they encourage everybody to respond. They will then make a decision before the summer on the new structure of the USO.
"With 1st class letters having seen 5 rises in 3 years, the last 22% increase in October to £1.65, quality of service still poor (Ofcom fined RM £10.5m in December for poor service), and Royal Mail now trialling 2nd class deliveries moving to 2 or 3 days a week for 1million households, we remain very concerned and are asking Parliament to review any planned changes."
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "In the wake of numerous cost increases, along with the recent Ofcom fine for poor performance, it is vital that Royal Mail is held accountable when it comes to providing independent high street businesses with a reliable and supportive postal service.
"I would encourage any independent retailer or high street business to sign this petition, which aims to ensure that Royal Mail is properly scrutinised under very reasonable objectives and continues to support your business and high streets as a whole."
The petition currently sits at almost 4,500 signatures, with 10,000 signatures necessary for Government to respond. To learn more and sign the petition, please click the link below.
Learn more and sign the petition
High street businesses can help call on the Government to amend legislation to require parliamentary scrutiny on any change to the Royal Mail's Universal Service Obligation (USO).
Click the link here to learn more and sign the petition.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Catch up on key industry insights with podcast episodes available now
High Street Matters will discuss crucial subjects such as consumer trends, relevant government legislation, business rates, parking and staffing, providing top tips to help to help businesses stay ahead of the retail curve.
We’re talking to a cross section of our members from across the UK, from single retail outlets to small chains, and from large department stores to leisure and hospitality.
Listen to the series, available now.
Related News
-
Independent retailers mingle with top suppliers for 'Mica Exchange' in Peebles, Scotland
Mica held its annual ‘Mica Exchange’ gathering over the weekend of 16th - 17th September at the picturesque Peebles Hydro Hotel & Spa in the Scottish Borders. The Exchange is an invitation-only event taking place in a different part of the UK each year that brings together Mica's...
-
Dexam launches new ranges in partnership with the RHS
Following the success of their existing collections, Dexam have launched two new ranges in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). The Birds and Gertrude Jekyll textile ranges are now in stock and are made from organic cotton.
-
Bira CEO comments on the rise of shoplifting in UK stores & the effect on indie retailers
Shoplifters in the UK are becoming increasingly "emboldened" and appear to be operating under more organised and coordinated efforts, often orchestrated by organised criminal groups. These groups steal to order, fuelling a growing black-market trade in various goods, from cheese and meat to luxury items. Retail experts have expressed concern over the rise of these "grab-and-go" raids and their impact on businesses.
-
Understanding the UK Plastic Packaging Tax: Registration, Returns, and Payments
The Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), implemented on April 1, 2022, marked a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of plastic packaging in the United Kingdom. For businesses engaged in the manufacture or import of 10 tonnes or more of plastic packaging over a 12-month period, it is crucial to grasp the registration, return, and payment obligations associated with this tax. Even if your packaging comprises 30% or more recycled plastic, registration for PPT is mandatory and can be conveniently completed on the GOV.UK platform.