Postcomm calls for a long term strategy for the UK's post office network
Postcomm calls on the Government and Post Office to work with all stakeholders to develop a long term strategy for the UK post offices network
Postcomm’s eighth annual post office report to the Government is published as Post Office Ltd moves into the final stages of its Network Change Programme, which involves the closure of around 2,500 post offices. Postcomm says a long-term strategy is needed to reduce uncertainty, safeguard against further unplanned closures and build confidence in a sustainable post office network.
Nigel Stapleton, Chairman, Postcomm said, “Subpostmasters have invested their own money in the network and are currently operating in one of the most challenging economic environments for retail business. Unless the Government is able to provide a clear vision for the future of the network, we are concerned that the network will shrink further because of unplanned closures.”
Postcomm welcomes last week’s decision by the Government to allow Post Office Ltd to retain the contract for the Post Office Card Account because it ends one of the uncertainties for subpostmasters.
Postcomm’s report recommends that Post Office Ltd should build on its partnerships with local authorities and ensure the commitment of subpostmasters to a more enterprising network by providing the right training, business advice and incentives.
