Norway Post explores newspaper-mail co-distribution

Norway Post is working with three major publishing industry players to explore a possible joint newspaper distribution partnership. The national postal operator is working with Aftenposten, publisher of Norway’s biggest newspaper, and publishing group Amedia along with the publishing firms’ jointly-owned distribution technology firm, Distribution Innovation.

Initially, the four companies are working on three pilot projects, two testing out distribution of mail and newspapers in Hallingdal and Andebu, with a third testing out Distribution Innovations’ online route optimization system in the delivery of newspapers in Lofoten.

The companies said with the sharp fall in volumes for both mail and newspapers with the transition from paper to electronic communications channels, they wanted to look at the benefits of co-distributing mail and newspapers.

Gro Bakstad, executive director of Norway Post, said: “It is natural to look at the distribution of newspapers and mail in the same network.

“This way, we can ensure a good post and newspaper service across the country, while maintaining mail and newspaper distribution in a profitable way.”

Norway Post said the results of the pilots will determine whether it will go ahead with a partnership with the newspaper distributors.

Distribution Innovation is 60% owned by Aftenposten and 40% by Amedia. Amedia’s distribution business includes around 1,700 delivery staff delivering newspapers, magazines, books and advertising to about 850,000 households in Norway.

Norway Post currently delivers to more than 2m homes and businesses, six days a week.