The GCA has responded to this morning’s Ofcom announcement (December 13) that Royal Mail has been fined for failing to meet its legal delivery obligations during the year
Amanda Fergusson, CEO of the GCA (Greeting Card Association), said: “Today’s announcement confirms what our members have been telling us all year – that Royal Mail continues to treat small businesses and consumers who simply expect delivery promises to be kept, with disdain.
“Of course, the improvements of early 2024 have been welcome but every delayed or late delivery has the potential to weaken the faith we have in the precious postal service that we all rely on.
“We welcome Ofcom’s demand for a clear, credible, and publicly communicated plan setting out how Royal Mail will get back on track and look forward to understanding the timescale for that plan.
“Our own research this week shows how much the British public love to send cards – especially at Christmas – and how that tradition is being embraced by younger people as they discover the emotional benefits of sending a card for themselves and the recipient.
“And that’s why we know a Royal Mail that gets back to its best with a reliable, affordable service has a significant opportunity to rebuild its reputation in the years ahead.”
Earlier this week, The GCA asked one of its members, Hallmark, to look at young people’s intentions regarding sending Christmas cards in 2024.
It found on average, over six in ten of 18-35 year olds (63%) planned to send more Christmas cards than last year, compared with 38% of those aged 55-plus. Two-thirds (66%) of 25-34 year olds, were planning to send more.
A significant 57% of 18-24 year olds were planning to send more, higher than all age brackets of 45-plus.
What’s more, almost two-thirds (60%) of 18-35 year olds have spent more on the Christmas cards they’ve bought this year, compared with around two in five (38%) of those aged 55-plus.
The GCA has been campaigning to prevent the Royal Mail postal service being cut back, with second class deliveries chopped back to just two or three days a week.
In November, Royal Mail raised the price of a first-class stamp from £1.35 to £1.65 – a 22% increase that was the fifth rise in less than three years.
, said: “Today’s announcement confirms what our members have been telling us all year – that Royal Mail continues to treat small businesses and consumers who simply expect delivery promises to be kept, with disdain.){kind=link}