Online shopping from UK retailers experienced a 28% increase in parcel volumes in the last week up to Christmas in 2012, compared to the same period in 2011. A similar increase is expected in 2013, particular with the release of new postal sizes for small parcels from 28th October 2013. Together with this, Boxing Day sales and the increasingly important returns business, are expected to have record volumes during the period between Christmas and New Year (based upon 2011 to 2012 showing 69% increase)
In 2012, Christmas spending was driven by the increase in internet use as 2.8 billion visits went o online retail sites during December, up by 30% from 2011. This was mainly driven by convenience and UK businesses can expect this to continue during 2013. On this basis postal volumes through small parcels and letters should top those experienced last year.
The most cost effective method for most business to send parcels and letters is still through a franking machine, and it is expected the uptake of these will mirror the increase in seasonal postal volumes during the period. Particularly at the entry level of the market, it is expected a large upturn of new franking machine users. With this in mind, many franking suppliers are beginning to create special offers tailored to this market.
Andrew Parmenter, Marketing Manager from The Mailing Room commented: “As online shopping becomes an important part of most retailers’ strategies, the use of a franking machine to fulfill this will be a core essential ingredient. The Royal Mail has supported this by introducing a number of new cost reduction initiatives, including improving the sizes of small parcels and increased discounts for volumes of mail.”
“As we enter the festive period, The Mailing Room intends to promote the Royal Mail’s plans and ensure all UK business users are aware of the benefits.”
For more information on the franking machines, please contact The Mailing Room on 0800 0192 033 or visit www.themailingroom.com