Businesses and consumers alike are angered at the fact that the Royal Mail is refusing to sell stamps in large quantities and this is being construed as a ploy to hold out until prices rise later in the month. Many post offices and high street chains are saying that their supply of stamps is running out because consumers have taken to stockpiling them.
It was confirmed by Royal Mail that they are indeed imposing a cap on how many stamps shops could buy because they are claiming that retailers are exceeding their limits. The Shadow Postal Affairs Minister, Ian Murray, has stated his intention to send a letter Ofcom in regards to what he calls “shameless profiteering” by Royal Mail at the public’s expense.
Mr. Murray further claims that the rise in the cost of postage is disproportionate and its impact on low income consumers and small businesses will be significant. He understands that those who will be impacted most would want to stock up on stamps before the announced price rise. He feels that the rationing of stamps prior to the price increase is directly opposed to the spirit in which prices were deregulated by Ofcom.
Other public figures such as Adrian Bailey Commons Business, Innovation and Skills Committee chairman, has declared that restrictions and rationing is “absolutely outrageous.” He calls this a restriction of trade, but even so it doesn’t appear that anything can be done about the huge increase in price that is still set to take effect at month’s end.
In March it was announced by Royal Mail that first-class stamps would rise from 46p to 60p, which is an increase of 30%. Second-class stamps will go from 36p to 50p which is a rise of 39%. Royal Mail has capped what each retailer can purchase it and they are only being allowed to buy 20% of their annual allocation.
Royal Mail further admitted that they were limiting supplies in order to protect revenues which of course will increase in accordance with higher prices. However, the company did say they would continue discussions with any retailers who feel they have a real need for greater supplies to meet the needs of their customers.
