The Post Office has announced plans to transfer its last 108 company-run branches to franchise partners, completing its move to a fully franchised network. The change, due by autumn (subject to government funding), affects around 1,000 staff, who will be offered roles with new owners or voluntary redundancy.

Post Office chairman Nigel Railton has said that the 108 branches will stay in place or relocate nearby.

New franchisees may include Tesco, Ryman, and independent sub-postmasters, which may bring Post Office counters into new retail settings.

Concerns and Reactions

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has criticised the plan as ‘privatisation by the back door’ and called for government intervention. They argue that franchising has already led to a decline in service levels in some areas.

What’s Next

The Post Office says franchising will help save £40m and improve postmaster pay by up to 10%, while still meeting its commitment to maintain at least 11,500 branches across the UK. Local consultation on branch changes is expected in the coming weeks.

Tip for business owners: If your business relies on nearby Post Office services, keep an eye out for local updates and consider alternative access points or digital solutions if service levels change.

See: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd02nr0y0rjo