Post Office to Franchise Last 108 Crown Branches in Cash-Boost Move for Postmasters
Post Office Handover Set for Autumn
The Post Office has revealed plans to hand over its remaining 108 directly-owned Crown branches to franchisees by this autumn. This bold step aims to raise extra funds to boost pay for postmasters nationwide. Some branches may be taken over by new businesses, others might close or relocate as franchises move into fresh premises.
Why the Shake-Up?
The Post Office wants to secure its future by turning fully franchised. This revamp is designed to save £40 million and pump an extra £250 million a year into postmasters’ pay by 2030. That translates to pay rises of up to 10% for thousands of workers.
Post Office chairman Nigel Railton said: “Moving to a fully franchised network is one part of enabling the Post Office to deliver a New Deal for Postmasters, helping to create a long-term, sustainable future for the Post Office.”
What This Means for Staff and Customers
The move affects around 1,000 employees at the Crown branches, all currently operated by the Post Office itself, not franchise partners. While some stores will keep serving under new management, others could see closures or be forced to relocate.
Railton assured: “By franchising these branches, we are protecting access to our services for communities right across the UK.”
Branches on the Chopping Block
The 108 branches span across major UK cities including London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Belfast. Key locations slated for transfer include:
- Aldwych, London
- Baker Street, London
- Belfast City, Northern Ireland
- Glasgow West Nile Street, Scotland
- Oxford St Aldates, Oxford
- Croydon High Street, London
- Newquay East Street, Cornwall
The full list covers towns and cities nationwide, signalling a major overhaul for the UK postal network.
Concerns from Communities
Rural customers and local groups have voiced fears that franchising could shrink services or shutter branches, hitting accessibility hard. Unions and community leaders demand more clarity on job security and local impacts as the changes loom.
What’s Next?
The franchise rollout depends on securing Government funding. The Post Office pledges to collaborate closely with local businesses to keep services running smoothly. Staff will get full support and guidance as their roles evolve.
Customers are urged to stay tuned to official updates and prepare for possible branch relocations or closures. This move is a big step in modernising the Post Office and safeguarding public services while boosting profitability.
