Postal Digest – news from US, Czech Republic, Croatia, Italy
Rounding up more postal industry news from around the world…
Czech Post to increase rates for parcels
Czech Post has announced price increases for standard and registered parcels, which will take effect on October 1.
The operator said yesterday that prices will rise across all weight categories by nine korun (36 euro cents) for ordinary parcels, and across all weight categories of registered packages by 10 korun (40 euro cents).
Czech Post said the last time these prices were changed was January 2009, and since then fuel prices and processing costs have risen.
US celebrities set for a place on postage stamps
The US Postal Service looks to be adding a touch of celebrity glamour to its stamp sales – it has changed its self-imposed rule that had prevented honouring living people in its stamps.
From next year, it is promising acclaimed musicians, sports stars, writers, artists and other nationally-known figures will feature on U.S. postage stamps. USPS is inviting the public to use social media to submit their ideas for individuals to feature.
“This change will enable us to pay tribute to individuals for their achievements while they are still alive to enjoy the honour,” said Patrick Donahoe, US Postmaster General. “Honouring living individuals expands the interest in stamp topics and keeps our program timely, relevant and contemporary.”
Croatian Post launches Facebook app for tracking mail
Croatian registered mail can now be tracked via Facebook
Customers of Croatian Post can now track their shipments via Facebook, thanks to a new app on the social media platform.
The Post said it was extending the functionality of its call centre service with the new app, which offers a simple form for users to track domestic and international registered mail.
Croatian Post said the new app was “another step forward” in its efforts to encourage a new generation to make use of the “traditional” medium of communications, while making the most of opportunities offered by modern technology and social networks.
Poste Italiane closes free email service
Poste Italiane has put a few noses out of joint with an abrupt end to its free digital mail service, Postemail.
The Italian operator issued notices to its Postemail customers earlier month stating that they were no longer able to send emails through the service, which offered email addresses ending “@poste.it”. Emails sent to customer email addresses will still be available until January, while archived documents will be available until the end of March.
Poste Italiane is planning to launch a premium secure email service, MyPoste, which will be available for a 12 euro annual fee, although postal banking customers will have free access for three years.
