Royal Mail was today facing revolt from small business owners outraged at how late their post is delivered.
Following last week’s news that Royal Mail had failed all 15 of its delivery targets despite increasing profits by £400 million in 12 months, the Federation of Small Businesses has challenged its members and other small firms to demand a better service.
The lobby group has focused on the claim by Royal Mail that the new Single Daily Delivery would allow more flexibility at local level so that staff on the grounds can meet local needs. The FSB believes this should include adding small businesses to the early morning business round or placing them near the beginning of the residential round.
In order to test Royal Mail’s claim, the FSB wants business owners to tell their local delivery managers about the effects that delayed mail and unpredicatable delivery times have on their businesses and demand they are made a priority.
John Walker, policy chairman for the FSB, said: “We are encouraging our members to go to their delivery managers and ask to be included on the business round or at the very least preferential treatment on the residential round.
“Small businesses need a predictable mail service. Royal Mail said that SDD will encourage flexibility rather than precipitate disruption and we want to hold them to this promise.
Postwatch, the postal service regulator, has backed the campaign and offered to accompany business owners that decide to approach their Royal Mail delivery managers.
For more information, visit the FSB website: www.fsb.org.uk or contact Postwatch on 0845 601 3265