Cheltenham households may experience reduced postal services as Royal Mail tests a new delivery model, potentially ending weekend second-class deliveries.
Cheltenham: Households might see changes to their mail delivery soon. Starting next week, the local delivery office will test a new model. This could mean no second-class deliveries on weekends.
Instead, second-class mail could arrive on non-consecutive weekdays. This trial is part of a plan while Ofcom reviews Royal Mail’s request to reduce its delivery obligations. If successful, it could save the company up to £300 million a year.
The pilot will also include areas in Bristol and Trowbridge. A spokesperson mentioned they are working with unions to test this new delivery model in 37 offices this year.
The first pilot is set to begin in February 2025, with a gradual rollout afterward. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition and improve customer experience if changes are made.
Any new operating model will depend on Ofcom’s upcoming regulations. Until then, the current rules remain in effect, and plans may change.
Details about the pilot are still limited. Ofcom plans to review Royal Mail’s obligations this autumn, aiming to publish a consultation in early 2025 and make a decision by summer.
Lindsey Fussell from Ofcom stated they want to ensure any proposed changes benefit consumers. They are looking to stabilize the universal service while ensuring Royal Mail invests in its network and improves efficiency.
Martin Seidenberg, CEO of Royal Mail’s parent company, emphasized that their proposal aims to protect customer interests. They believe regulatory changes can help without needing new laws, as the universal service faces financial challenges.
The company also mentioned potential voluntary redundancies and cuts to daily delivery routes. Recently, they indicated a profit might be possible this financial year due to increased revenue from Christmas parcels.
Royal Mail is currently being acquired by Czech billionaire Daniel Kretínský for £3.6 billion. The price of a second-class stamp is currently 85p, significantly lower than the first-class stamp at £1.65.
