Mark Fletcher has seen a dramatic drop-off in business with the recent industrial action by Royal Mail staff but can now look forward to better Christmas trade. (Picture by Tom Tardif, 0853826)
BUSINESSES which rely on the postal system are looking forward to Christmas after news that Royal Mail national strikes have been called off – for now.
Postal workers were due to strike yesterday and on Monday, but industrial action has been delayed until the new year to allow further talks.
Mark Fletcher, owner of Fletcher’s Freesias by Post, said local companies could now breathe a sigh of relief.
‘It is good news and we can now send our Christmas brochures out,’ he said. ‘We have had 50,000 brochures ready to go, but up to now there has been no point in sending them with the risk of strikes.’
Mr Fletcher, who is also the chairman of the Guernsey Postal Flower Association, said his business had been hugely affected by the dispute. ‘We have seen a 50% reduction in trade because of the strikes,’ he said. ‘Usually, we would be sending around 400 to 500 boxes out a week at this time of the year but that has gone down to 100 a week. That just shows how bad the problem has been.’
And his fingers are crossed for the future. ‘At least we now know that there is no threat for at least seven weeks and hopefully trade will pick up for the Christmas period.
‘It [Christmas trade] is our lifeline for the rest of the winter.’
But he believes the threat has not gone away.
‘They have called this the “cool-off” period and it’s a chance for them to have more negotiations.
‘They need to sort this out for their businesses and also for the smaller businesses it is affecting.’
He added that mail order companies that relied on Royal Mail were already looking at alternative delivery businesses.
Guernsey Post operations director Boley Smillie said it was good news for it and its customers.
‘Items sent by Special Delivery continue to be given priority.
‘However, until we are notified by Royal Mail that the guarantee is back in place, items sent using the service are not guaranteed next working day delivery.’
Article posted on 7th November, 2009 - 2.29pm
Most Commented: