Influence of the regulatory framework on the pattern of competition in EU postal markets
The presentation gives information about the following subjects:
• Business models of entrants
– Typology introduced by Dietl & Waller 2002
• Developments in four EU countries (Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, UK)
– Regulatory framework (reserved area, network access, VAT, mandate of the regulator)
– Development of competition and business models observed in practice
Conclusion
• Clear interaction between regulatory framework and pattern of competition
• End-to-end competitors reach 8-12% market share in addressed mail delivery in 2006 (DE, NL,ES)
• Convergence in business models in DE, NL, ES
– Main competition from mass mail provider with elements of networked local mail provider; increasing scope of services offered
– Local mail providers and niche service providers active as well
• Pattern of competition different in UK
– Chosen access regime favours access competition over end-to-end competition (also in medium term)
Presented in the 15th Conference on Postal and Delivery Economics, 31 May-2 June 2007, Semmering, Austria.
