As we head into Lockdown 2.0 we'd like to reassure you its business as usual here at MRM. We're continuing to receive stock and process customer orders and as ever, your account teams are happy to support your calls and emails as required. Within the UK, there has been a huge increase in demand for ecommerce services which is impacting on our industry in many ways. Royal Mail for example are taking on an additional 19,000 seasonal jobs to sort Christmas mail and we're already in discussions with our carrier partners planning ahead for the peak pre-Christmas period1. There are a few points we'd like to bring to your attention to ensure we can continue to work together as efficiently as possible.
Courier Networks
UK The carrier networks are already experiencing a spike in deliveries and collections. Research conducted by Whistl suggests that this will continue to increase over the next 7 weeks with 46% of those who bought online for Christmas 2019, plan to increase their online festive shopping this year2.
Therefore, we would recommend that you confirm new campaigns ASAP and allow us to help you plan for earlier deliveries to your customers to guarantee pre-Christmas delivery. In addition, we are seeing a significant increase in the number of returned orders due to offices, retailers / sites being closed. Please do check that your recipient details are correct and operational as every returned order means a charge from the carrier as well as the customer not being able to receive their expected delivery. International International delivery services continue to operate, but please note delivery times are extended in some areas. Things to think about include: Fewer scheduled flights means post and carrier despatches are taking longer than usual and fuel surcharges are rising. The closure of borders is changing regularly – and the requirements for despatch are becoming more onerous. You will need to allow more time and cost for international despatches due to paperwork requirements and border closures.
Packaging
We have stocked up with a wide range of our central packaging options; your Account Manager will be contacting you to advise of any specialist packaging that we use on your behalf where additional stock needs to be ordered in. Our range of packaging includes environmentally friendly and sustainable options – if you’re not already using them and would like to learn more, please contact your Account Manager.
However we are seeing increased lead times for packaging deliveries as we head into peak season and some suppliers are already reporting lower stocks of base materials such as cardboard – A reminder to ask you to forward plan with us as much as possible. If you’re likely to require bespoke printed packaging, please get in touch so we can book in production slots with our packaging suppliers – currently there are 4-6 week lead times for bespoke printed boxes.
We understand your challenges
Here are MRM we are always available to advise and assist. Planning and sending earlier will allow your promotion(s) to run smoothly this Christmas. Don't hesitate to get in touch to discuss your needs: E: [email protected] or call Helen on 01858 414 767
1. https://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2016-12-15/royal-mail-hire-19000-extra-staff-for-busiest-day-of-the-year
2. https://postandparcel.info/128546/news/e-commerce/46-of-online-christmas-shoppers-will-increase-their-online-festive-shopping-this-year/