Pitney Bowes seeks alternative site for UK office

Pitney Bowes has decided to open a new UK office in the Hatfield area of Hertfordshire, after deciding the current site in Harlow was not sufficient for expansion plans. The US mail equipment and services company has carried out an internal review suggesting its current office in Harlow, Essex, would require a £44m investment to bring into line with company expansion requirements and local building standards.

An alternative location in Harlow has not been found despite an “extensive” review.

Pitney Bowes, which has occupied its Pinnacles site for more than 45 years, issued a statement to the effect that 450 staff look set to be relocated to the new site, while it will seek “suitable accommodation” for 200 staff in Harlow itself.

The move to alternative premises is set to take place by the middle of next year.

Patrick Jelly, the Pitney Bowes UK managing director, said in the statement: “After so many years based in Harlow we had hoped to find suitable premises close by but this proved impossible given our space requirements. However, we still aim to remain a major employer in the town.”

Local municipal authorities in Harlow have said they will try to help Pitney Bowes keep as many jobs in the town as possible.

Councillor Andrew Johnson, Harlow Council’s Leader, said: “Pitney Bowes has a strong connection with Harlow’s past and present and we want this to continue into the future. Pitney Bowes is a major employer in Harlow and their workers, many from Harlow, will want to stay in the town. The Council will do all that it can to help retain as many of these jobs as possible in Harlow.”

Local MP Robert Halfon said Pitney Bowes had a “historic” presence in the town, and that the search would continue for an alternative site.

He said: “I will continue to work hard with Pitney Bowes over the weeks ahead, to see what can be done. Further to the conversations I have had in the last few days, I will be meeting with employees and management as soon as possible.”