Royal Mail announces plans to axe up to 2,500 jobs in major review

Royal Mail has announced that up to 2,500 roles will be cut as part of an organisational review.

The job cuts, which will affect head office and support function roles, will take place by the end of 2027. Around 130,000 people are employed by the postal service.

The company said it was undergoing a “significant transformation” as the business implements universal service reform and adapts to a rapidly-changing market.

Letter volumes have declined by more than 70 per cent since their peak while customer demand for faster and more convenient parcel delivery services continues to grow, it said.

Alistair Cochrane, chief executive of Royal Mail, said: “We have been working hard to reduce costs and simplify processes across all areas of the business as we transform to win in a very competitive market.

“These proposed changes remove duplication and allow us to invest further in the service we deliver for our customers.

“We are committed to treating everyone fairly and respectfully throughout this process, working closely with our trade unions.

“The proposed changes will not be easy, but they are an important part of building a stronger, simpler and future-ready Royal Mail for our customers and colleagues.”

The news comes as postal regulator Ofcom continues to investigate Royal Mail over its persistent failure to meet crucial delivery targets over the past year.

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