The Greeting Card Association (GCA) has welcomed Ofcom’s proposal to extend the price cap on second-class stamps for another year, until 31 March 2028
The announcement follows the GCA’s ongoing campaign for Royal Mail to demonstrate improvements in its service before being granted further pricing freedoms.
David Falkner, CEO-elect of the GCA, said: “Our members are keen for them to succeed. They depend on a reliable and affordable service, and they acutely understand the importance of restoring the service back to the standards required by Ofcom.”
The GCA has consistently argued that it would be premature to introduce further changes to pricing controls or delivery targets before Royal Mail demonstrates the benefits of reforms already introduced. Ofcom’s consultation acknowledges these concerns and specifically references the GCA’s submission.
This is a welcome step by Ofcom that recognises the significant cost pressures on consumers and small businesses as the government focuses on measures to address the impact of cost-of-living challenges for families.
David Falkner, CEO-elect of the GCA
The GCA’s Postal Sub-Committee, led by Pip Heywood, managing director of Thortful, has played a key role in advocating for affordable postage.
The association estimates that protecting just 1% of greeting card volumes retains more than £15 million in value within the industry, highlighting the importance of affordable postal services as the busy Christmas card-sending season approaches.
The Ofcom announcement is a proposed extension, with the regulator consulting on the plans. If implemented, it would provide greater certainty for families, small businesses, retailers and greetings card publishers that rely on affordable second-class postage.
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