Read the latest news from Melissa Data concerning Industry News, Announcements and Special Offers, Press Releases, New Products, Support News, In the Works, Newsletters http://www.MelissaData.com/ en-us http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/20/09—Prices for letters and postcards delivered by Deutsche Post within Germany will remain the same next year. The Federal Network Agency has accepted the respective pricing proposal of Deutsche Post. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/20/09—The U.S. Postal Service® today updated the list of retail stations and branches that remain under review for possible consolidation, with only 241 offices still under review. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/19/09—UK Mail (Business Post) has reported an 11 percent fall in revenue from its parcel delivery service - from £9.6m to £80m. The company blamed the fall on the impact of the recession. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/19/09—In its first-ever sustainability report, the USPS® showed a decrease in total energy use of 9 percent from 2005 to 2008. The agency is also increasing opportunities for the public to recycle junk mail and other paper. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/18/09— Twelve years after setting up its base for international air cargo operations in India, FedEx Corp. has begun domestic express service for the Indian market. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/18/09—PMG John Potter used the open session of the Nov. 13 USPS® Board of Governors meeting to press again for structural reform of the agency, by reducing the number of delivery days from six to five per week. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/17/09—Some CWU representatives are claiming that Royal Mail is already breaking the spirit of the peace agreement, leading to speculation that strikes could resume in the coming weeks. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/17/09—The USPS® today filed its 2009 fiscal year-end financial results, showing a net loss of $3.8 billion for the year — despite cost-cutting efforts resulting in $6 billion in cost savings and a $4 billion reduction. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/16/09—The UPU Council of Administration (CA) ended its 2009 session on Friday. The CA approved a proposal to formalize the relationship between the UPU and the International Organization for Migration. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/16/09—Do you pass the droop test? The droop test measures the flexibility of catalogs. The USPS® extended the deadline for the deflections standard implementation from September 8, 2009 to January 4, 2010. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/12/09—French Post deliveries could be hit by disruption later this month when five unions walkout on November 24 in a one day protest about a new law that would turn the post office into a company with shareholders. Thu, 12 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/12/09—The USPS® has announced its 2010 parcel rate shipping prices to take effect Jan. 4, coinciding with rate changes made by FedEx and UPS. The overall average price increase will be 3.3% for Priority Mail®. Thu, 12 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/11/09—A recent report commissioned by TNT Post UK highlights some of the myths surrounding doordrop activity, which has led to a negative perception of the industry in comparison to other media. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/11/09—How would you make over the U.S. Postal Service®? With bankruptcy looming, the USPS® needs a major fix. Inc. 500 CEOs describe how they would approach the problem. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/10/09—Bulgarian Posts will be restructured and stabilized financially by being split into five subsidiaries in which the state will keep 51 percent. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/10/09—The USPS® refurbished existing mail-processing equipment to perform new tasks for only $60,000 per unit, thereby saving them (and the American postal customer) close to $70 million. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/9/09—About 150 postal experts are at UPU head-quarters today and tomorrow to look at how the postal network can help the world’s poor gain access to financial services. Mon, 9 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/9/09— Submitting Postage Statements between Nov. 15 and Nov. 29, 2009: On Nov. 15, the Postal Service® will deploy software to support Full-Service prices. These new prices will apply starting Nov. 29. Mon, 9 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/6/09—The International Labour Organization and the UPU both held ceremonies in Geneva and Berne this week for the winner of the 2009 international letter-writing competition for young people. Fri, 6 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/6/09—The union’s challenge to PMG Potter to set the wages of mail-processing employees, at an amount that is less than the worksharing discounts major mailers enjoy ,has generated some interesting responses. Fri, 6 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/5/09—UPU Director General Edouard Dayan urged United Nations organizations and agencies on Friday to join a UPU campaign to develop efficient addressing systems world-wide. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/5/09—The Postal Service® has announced the 2010 Shipping Services prices will take effect January 4, 2010. A complete listing of 2010 prices is available at http://pe.usps.com under the “Jan. 4, 2010 Price Change” button. Thu, 5 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Thousands of people in the UK have started to use telegrams – one of the earliest forms of long distance communication - for their urgent messages as the national postal strike deepens. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Resident officers met with DPG Pat Donahoe on Oct. 28, along with representatives from NAPUS and the LEAGUE of Postmasters, concerning several issues that had been raised in prior meetings with the Postal Service®. Wed, 4 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 11/3/09—State-run Hellenic Post (ELTA) is to go through major restructuring ahead of the liberalization of the postal services market in 2013. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 11/3/09—InformationWeek interviews CIO and senior VP Ross Philo, as he explains how IT is being applied within the Postal Service® to manage costs, improve operations, and deliver new services. Tue, 3 Nov 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/30/09—Norway Post's revenues are declining as a result of the economic slump and electronic substitution, but extensive efficiency measures are leading to greater profitability at the end of the first three quarters of 2009. Fri, 30 Oct 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/30/09—Facing declining mail volume, workforce cuts through employee buyouts, and the possible closure of hundreds of Post Offices™, the U.S. Postal Service® has a new "get well" remedy: greeting cards. Fri, 30 Oct 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/29/09—Royal Mail today condemned the CWU’s decision to walk away as peace talks were making significant progress and the union’s failure to call off this week’s industrial action. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/29/09—To ensure delivery of holiday cards and packages to domestic destinations by Dec 25, it is suggested to mail no later than Dec. 21 for First Class Mail® and Priority Mail®, and Dec. 23 for Express Mail®. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/28/09—The global postal sector is one step closer to obtaining its own top-level domain name on the Internet, to be known as .post (dot-post). The UPU is the first United Nations agency to negotiate such a contract with ICANN. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/28/09—Despite the U.S. Postal Service's persistent financial distress, Congress appears unlikely this year to approve the postmaster general's cost-cutting proposal to eliminate Saturday mail delivery. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/27/09—New Zealand Post is ensuring its nationwide letter delivery service remains fair for all New Zealanders through proposed changes to its access framework for other postal operators. Tue, 27 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/27/09—The USPS® is working out details for a Winter Sale, similar to the Summer Sale incentive that was implemented earlier this year. The likelihood that the incentive will be approved is at 75 percent. Tue, 27 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/26/09—Royal Mail and the CWU are to resume talks today aimed at bringing an end to a series of national postal strikes. The talks are to be assisted by the head of the Trades Union Congess, Brendan Barber. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/26/09—The Mailers Council, the nation’s largest coalition of mailers and mailing associations, has published a new white paper that warns of USPS® insolvency without significant new legislative reform. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/23/09—Nationwide postal strikes have begun today after last-minute talks between Royal Mail and the CWU collapsed. 120,000 mail center staff and postal drivers are striking today. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/23/09—The Postal Service® will assess a penalty of 7 cent a piece for every piece in a Standard Mail® mailing that is not compliant with the Move Update requirements beginning on January 4, 2010. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/22/09—ICANN and the UPU have reached an agreement in principle for the UPU sponsorship of the .POST Top-Level Domain. Final approval of the agreement is subject to ICANN's public comment process. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/22/09—The stop-gap legislation signed on Sept. 30 reduced the U.S. Postal Service’s $5.4 billion health-care retiree payment for fiscal 2009 to $1.4 billion. That’s a big help, but the USPS® needs permanent change. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/21/09—The president of state-owned Japan Post, Yoshifumi Nishikawa, will resign, as the government prepares to revise a privatization scheme once applauded as a symbol of bold, pro-market reforms. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/21/09—About 18,000 U.S. Postal Service® employees are expected to take $15,000 buyouts to leave their jobs this year—far less than the 30,000 originally projected by the agency. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/20/09—The CWU reacted angrily to Royal Mail’s plans to hire 30,000 temporary staff to help deal with any strike backlog – threatening to take legal action against "inflammatory" strike-breaking plans. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/20/09—The USPS® plans to consolidate and close 65 Stamp Distribution Offices (SDO’s) and the five Accountable Paper Depositories (APD’s). The network will now consolidate into six Stamp Distribution Centers (SDC’s). Tue, 20 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/19/09—The Royal Mail is to recruit twice as many seasonal workers in the run up to Christmas as the war of words surrounding the postal strike continues. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/19/09—Postmaster General Jack Potter tried to restore mailers' confidence in the U.S. Postal Service® by announcing a price freeze for most postal rates in 2010. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/16/09—Despite tough economic conditions, Australia Post's revenue grew by $26.1 million in 2008/09 to $5.0 billion, with growth in all three core business areas. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/16/09—The DMM Advisory says the Postal Service® will not increase prices for market dominant products in calendar year 2010. This includes First-Class Mail®, Standard Mail®, periodicals, single-piece Parcel Post®. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Thu, 15 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/15/09—Next Thursday, the president for the Association of Postal Commerce will tell the business people in the audience that it’s time they tell Congress what they need and what they’ll pay for from the Postal Service®. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/14/09—Royal Mail today condemned the CWU’s threat of a national strike as a blatant and deplorable attack on customers and on the future of the UK postal service. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/14/09—League of Postmasters President Charley Mapa writes a letter to his members asking that they refuse to participate in the US Postal Service’s Voice of the Employee survey. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/13/09—A number of German postal companies are joining forces to take on market leader Deutsche Post. The companies want to build up a nationwide delivery network under the name of Mail Alliance. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/13/09— FedEx Express has unveiled the industry's first onboard automatic fire-suppression system (FSS), elevating the level of safety during international, over-water flights. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/12/09—Posts worldwide drew attention to the importance and value of their services in keeping people and businesses connected on October 9, World Post Day. Mon, 12 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/12/09—The U.S. Postal Service® announces 371 retail stations and branches remain under consideration for possible consolidation. They focus on facilities in relatively close proximity to one another. Mon, 12 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 10/9/09—The New Zealand Post Group is getting behind an initiative to help employers encourage entrepreneurship in their business. Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 10/9/09—Postmaster General Jack Potter has been telling mailers’ groups in recent days that he does not plan to raise postal rates next year. Potter is telling mailers that any increase in 2010 would be “very small.” Fri, 9 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Amazon, one of the worlds largest online retailers, may be about to ditch the Royal Mail ahead of what could soon be national strike action by UK postal workers. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® today launched its annual conservation campaign, with postal officials calling on the mailing industry to “go green” at an event recognizing October as National Energy Awareness Month. Thu, 8 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm More than 90 percent of the two million people who took part in an unofficial citizens' poll this week in France voted against privatizing the postal service. Wed, 7 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx is opening up its SmartPost delivery deal with the U.S. Postal Service® to smaller retailers. Previously, the program was only open to high-volume retailers that shipped several hundred packages a day. Wed, 7 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Mailer groups doubt that last week’s decision to give the U.S. Postal Service® $4 billion worth of temporary fiscal relief was enough to solve its massive financial problems. Tue, 6 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Finland's postal service, now known as Itella, has announced plans to cut 360 jobs by the end of next year. Itella hopes that the majority of the jobs can be reduced through normal staff attrition. Tue, 6 Oct 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Muted rumblings of progress from the CWU last week, gave little away in terms of bringing the present dispute at Royal Mail to an end—not that anyone else cared too much. Mon, 5 Oct 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Approximately 5,000 full-time Postal Service™ employees eligible for retirement ended their Postal careers last week, accepting $15,000 buyout offers as part of a cost-cutting move. Mon, 5 Oct 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Effective October 1, 2009, Georg Pölzl assumes office as the Chairman of the Management Board and Chief Executive Officer of Austrian Post. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In an emotional closing to his speech at the union’s All-Craft Conference Sept. 30, APWU President William Burrus announced that he would not seek re-election in November 2010. Fri, 2 Oct 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Universal Postal Union offered new insights into the impact of the crisis on the global postal sector during the opening session of its World Postal Business Forum in Hannover, Germany. Thu, 1 Oct 2009 11:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® has published unaudited financial results for the month of August showing a net loss of $721 million for the month, resulting in a fiscal year to date loss of $6.3 billion with one month left to report. Thu, 1 Oct 2009 11:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/30/09—Latvian Post is offering new, more affordable prices for direct mail delivery in Latvia, starting with a single tariff in Riga and surrounding regions. Wed, 30 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/30/09—UPS is piloting a first-to-market service called UPS Direct to Door, delivering premium offers and samples from some of the nation's most sought-after brands and retailers to recipients of UPS residential shipments. Wed, 30 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/29/09—Australia Post’s first stand-alone corporate responsibility (CR) report has been praised for its high quality and robust approach to reporting. The report will be released in October. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/29/09—There’ll be no more Saturday delivery of mail, come 2011 or so. The USPS® is serious about cutting back to a Monday to Friday schedule; a plan that can save the cash-strapped agency at least $3 billion a year. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/28/09—CEO Deutsche Post DHL recounts the secret of DHL's success as the world's leading express and logistics provider marks its 40th anniversary. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/28/09—A House-Senate panel included the provisions of H.R. 22 in a stopgap funding bill that would keep the federal government afloat for a month after the new fiscal year starts, which is this week. Mon, 28 Sep 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/25/09—The industrial action at Royal Mail is proving to be an opportunity for alternative delivery businesses that have created services to circumnavigate “snail mail.” Fri, 25 Sep 2009 8:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/25/09—A House-Senate panel has approved legislation to keep the government from closing down when the new budget year starts next week. A $4 billion bookkeeping maneuver has been employed to keep the Postal Service® afloat. Fri, 25 Sep 2009 8:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/24/09—New Zealand Post has delivered a net profit of $71.8 million in a year of mixed results across its diversified group of companies. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/24/09—Beginning on Monday, U.P.S. will experiment in five major markets with a service it calls Direct to Door, giving advertisers and retailers a chance to provide offers and product samples to U.P.S. customers. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/23/09—Postal workers are striking across France over plans to open up La Poste – a move which unions fear will lead to privatization. Although five unions have called the strike, it is not clear how effective it will be. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/23/09—Post Master General John Potter will speak at a National Press Club luncheon on October 8, 2009 to discuss the Postal Service's future, including its environmental footprint. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/22/09—Japan’s new government may act this year to freeze the breakup and privatization of Japan Post, the state-run service that’s also the world’s largest bank by deposits. Tue, 22 Sep 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/22/09—FedEx Corp. will increase shipping rates for FedEx Express by an average of 5.9 percent for U.S. domestic and U.S. export services, effective January 4, 2010. Additional changes will be announced later this year. Tue, 22 Sep 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/21/09—Cuba expressed its satisfaction with the result of the first round of talks with the United States to normalize the postal mail between both countries. Mon, 21 Sep 2009 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/21/09—The PRC has completed its review of the First-Class Mail® Incentive Program. The incentive program starts October 1, 2009 and runs through December 31, 2009. Mon, 21 Sep 2009 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/18/09—The United States and Cuba will discuss today the possible resumption of long-suspended direct postal service in another small step toward seeking better relations after 50 years of hostilities. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/18/09—Is there light at the end of the tunnel? There is now growing evidence that we have passed the bottom in two of the Postal Service's key businesses: delivering advertising and parcels. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/17/09—Royal Mail today attacked the CWU’s strike ballot as totally unjustified, damaging to customers, and a clear attempt to undermine the essential modernization of Royal Mail which is needed to survive. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/17/09—In his annual state of the business address to the mailing industry, Postmaster General John E. Potter outlined a roadmap for recovery and reaffirmed the Postal Service’s focus on adapting to changing customer needs. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/16/09—German publisher Georg von Holtzbrinck has teamed up with private logistics companies to create a 'hybrid mail' service using the Internet for quicker delivery at a lower cost. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/16/09—By a 388-32 vote this afternoon, the House of Representatives approved a substitute version of HR 22, the “United States Postal Service® Financial Relief Act of 2009.” Wed, 16 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/15/09—Canada Post is pleased to confirm Moya Greene’s reappointment as President and Chief Executive Officer until May 2012. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/15/09—The union has updated a document that offers explanations of the Aug. 24, 2009, Memorandum of Understanding offering incentives to USPS® employees who retire or separate in the coming months. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/14/09— With a difficult recession and only months away from Christmas, postal workers are receiving mounting criticism of plans to begin a national postal strike at Royal Mail. Mon, 14 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/14/09—The House of Representatives is expected to vote soon, as early as Tuesday, Sept. 15, on legislation that would provide the USPS® with short-term relief from severe financial difficulties. Mon, 14 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/11/09—Indians working abroad may soon be able to send cash directly to their relatives at their doorsteps through the widespread postal network. The department of posts is set to enter into an agreement with Eurogiro. Fri, 11 Sep 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/11/09—FedEx will begin to leverage Parcel Return Service (PRS) by allowing its customers to return items, originally shipped by FedEx, to participating retailers using the Postal Service for drop off, pickup, and sortation. Fri, 11 Sep 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/10/09—The Communication Workers Union has warned that mail backlogs are likely to increase unless the Royal Mail engages in 'meaningful negotiations' on changes agreed in 2007. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/10/09—The USPS® fiscal year closes Sept. 30, which is when a $5.4 billion health-care retiree payment comes due. If the pending legislation is not passed, USPS probably can’t make this payment. What happens then? Thu, 10 Sep 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/9/09—The government has delayed the Oct. 1 integration of the parcel delivery operations of Japan Post Service Co. saying preparations were inadequate for the Oct. 1 launch and customers would be inconvenienced. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/9/09—The U.S. Postal Service® has provided lots of information about the Flats Sequencing System, but has not answered some basic questions that have been kicking around for a couple of years. Wed, 9 Sep 2009 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/8/09—New Zealand Post is launching the KiwiStamp™, which for the first time does not carry a face value. The KiwiStamp holds its value even if postage increases. Tue, 8 Sep 2009 11:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/8/09—The DMM Advisory has posted their September update. Changes have been made to the Intelligent Mail® Barcode Requirements for Qualified Business Reply Mail and Permit Reply Mail. Tue, 8 Sep 2009 11:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/4/09—In the coming year, Swiss Post is offering 750 new apprentices training positions. That’s 30 more than in the previous year. The number of apprentices at Swiss Post has increased steadily since 2004. Fri, 4 Sep 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/4/09— The Postal Service™ has updated the Guides and Specifications in preparation for PostalOne!® release 22 on November 15 to support the Intelligent Mail® Full-Service pricing incentives effective on November 29. Fri, 4 Sep 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/3/09—TNT Post is celebrating five years of success since it launched its services in the UK in August 2004. It has experienced incredible growth from delivering 300 million items in its first year to over 2.5 billion today. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 08:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/3/09—The Postal Service® has narrowed the number of offices facing possible closure to 413. Currently the post office has about 37,000 retail outlets across the country and PMG Potter wants to keep as many open as possible. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 08:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/2/09—Australia Post announced today it will enter the insurance sector by offering competitively-priced car insurance online and via the phone. Travel, home, and contents insurance will be offered in the coming months. Wed, 2 Sep 2009 08:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/2/09—Unaudited financial statements files with the PRC report the U.S. Postal Service® lost an additional $865 million in July. That’s better than the $1.3 billion loss reported in June, but brings the total net loss to $5.6 billion. Wed, 2 Sep 2009 08:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 9/1/09—The CWU says further disruption to mail services will begin next week as thousands of postal workers take strike action over "panic-driven cuts by increasingly aggressive managers at Royal Mail." Tue, 1 Sep 2009 09:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 9/1/09—The Mailers Technical Advisory Committee and the U.S. Postal Service® are asking direct mailers to take an online survey expressing their opinion about the USPS’ plan to move to five-day delivery and processing. Tue, 1 Sep 2009 09:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/31/09—Royal Mail today called on the Communication Workers Union to end its series of local strikes and to resume its involvement with change and modernization throughout the company. Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/31/09—Qualifying customers for the First-Class Mailing Incentive Program can receive a 20 percent credit on presorted and automation First-Class Mail® cards, letters, and/or flats volume exceeding their established threshold. Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/28/09—Australia Postal Corp. will invest $580 million the next three years to expand fast-growing revenue sources, such as identity verification and logistics services. Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/28/09—FedEx Express and the U.S. Postal Service® have announced a new agreement for domestic air transportation of mail through 2013. About $8 billion dollars in revenue is expected over the life of the seven-year contract. Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/27/09—Newly formed Postal Action Committee for Anti-Privatization of the employees of Pakistan Post has vowed to launch a comprehensive campaign to oppose the privatization of Pakistan Post. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/27/09—The U.S. Postal Service® took a small step toward intelligent downsizing yesterday with a buy-out package for up to 30,000 employees, but it needs to do two more things -- quickly: Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/26/09—India’s department of posts (DoP) is set to spend up to $1 billion on its IT-led business revamp over the next five years with top tech firms like IBM, TCS, Infosys and Wipro. Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/26/09— The Postal Service® is offering $15,000 buyouts to employees in an effort to cut costs at a time when the Post Office™ is being buffeted by the recession and the popularity of e-mail and electronic bill payment. Wed, 26 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/25/09—As many as 14,000 postal workers in South Africa were set to walk off the job to protest against an "apartheid" wage gap. The strike started on August 20th and will last until an agreement is reached. Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/25/09—Effective September 8th, 2009, the USPS® is set to update the requirements for booklet tabbing. If you mail out these types of mailers, it’s crucial you know what these changes are. Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/24/09—Global Forwarding has launched a China - Vietnam cross-border trucking service, connecting major origins in China with destinations in Vietnam. Mon, 24 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/24/09—To cope with declining volumes of catalogs and periodicals, the U.S. Postal Service® is adding nearly 300 ZIP codes to the list of areas that will be served by the Flats Sequencing System. Mon, 24 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/21/09—UPS has announced that its suite of integrated shipping tools now is available on DHgate.com, a leading China-based wholesale marketplace that enables global online transactions. Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/21/09—The July/August MailPro is now available. You’ll find informative articles on environmental leadership, new standards for letter-size booklets, U.S. Census Bureau requirements, and Click-N-Ship’s new Bill Me Later option. Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/20/09—The U.S. Postal Service® and FedEx Express have renewed their alliance for Global Express Guaranteed, the Postal Service's date-certain international delivery service to more than 190 countries and territories. Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/20/09—APWU President says closing and consolidating post offices based on recession-level volume is short-sighted, and will leave the Postal Service® with long-term damage. Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/19/09—Thailand Post statistics show the number of letters being posted annually has risen from 1.05 billion in 2005 to 1.13 in 2006 and further to 1.3 billion in 2008. Most are business and direct-sales letters. Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/19/09—In his latest video, Field Updates, DPMG and COO Pat Donahoe concludes his three-part series on the possibility of moving to a five-day delivery week, which he says is “absolutely necessary.” Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/18/09—Helge Israelsen has decided to resign from his position of CEO of Post Danmark A/S which he has held for 21 years. K. B. Pedersen, the current deputy CEO, has been appointed the new CEO of Post Danmark A/S. Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/18/09—Effective January 2010, a Move Update postage assessment will be calculated at acceptance if more than 30 percent of the addresses that should have been updated were not updated. Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/17/09—Industrial action at Royal Mail continues this week at various locations across the UK. The CWU said the action is in direct response to the terms of the 2007 pay and modernization agreement. Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/17/09— The new Move Update advisement policy for First-Class Mail® and Standard Mail® has been posted to the RIBBS Web site. The new Move Update policy is effective January 2010. Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/14/09—Despite talks between Royal Mail and the CWU, union leaders say a fundamental disagreement over ongoing plans to modernize the service has left it no choice but to continue with industrial action. Fri, 14 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/14/09—The Direct Marketing Association originally predicted that direct mail volume would only fall 1 percent this year, but the organization has revised that to as much as 10 percent. Fri, 14 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/13/09—The tendencies shown in the first half of the 2009 financial year confirm the expectation that the international economic crisis will also pose a major challenge to Austrian Post. Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/13/09—Better communication, not additional incentives, is all the Postal Service® needs to entice more employees to retire early, a union leader says. Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/12/09—The UPU’s Global Monitoring System (GMS) is now live, beginning with 21 member countries deploying RFID to measure mail-service quality between participating nations. Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/12/09—The U.S. Postal Service® will offer customers a 20 percent discount off of presort First-Class Mail®. The discounted prices are effective October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009. Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/11/09— Royal Mail’s national First Class quality of service was well above target in July, despite localized industrial action by the CWU. Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/11/09—The PRC public forum on workshare methodologies will be broadcast live here at 1pm today. Links will be posted approximately 10 minutes before the broadcast. Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/10/09—Thailand Post Co Ltd is offering a 5 percent discount on shipment services to the small and medium-sized enterprises on the list of the Office for Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP). http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/10/09—It is clear now that there will be legislation within the next year that will change the business model within which the Postal Service® now operates. This raises two critical questions. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/7/09—Latvian Post will introduce extensive cost saving measures in an attempt to put the service on a stronger financial footing, as well as increasing operational efficiency. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/7/09—The U.S. Postal Service® is seeking permission from Congress to enter new lines of business, hoping to boost revenue at a time when traditional mail volumes are posting double-digit losses. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/6/09—Thomas Kipp will assume the role of the new CEO of DHL Global Mail with immediate effect. He will now oversee Deutsche Post DHL's international mail business. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/6/09—The U.S. Postal Service® in Crisis: Senate subcommittee hearing at 10am today. Watch the hearing here live! http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/5/09—Twenty-one Posts started using the UPU's new Global Monitoring System (GMS) this week to evaluate the quality of their letter-post service using state-of-the-art RFID technology. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/5/09—The U.S. Postal Service® lost $2.4 billion during its third quarter and forecasts a $7 billion year-end loss according to figures released today. Mail volume has dropped 12.6 percent so far this year. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/4/09—FedEx Express announces the arrival in Paris of three state-of-the-art hybrid vehicles. The vehicles will be part of the FedEx Express fleet that manages pick-up and deliveries. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/4/09—Many experts argue that true reform requires the Postal Service® to privatize, which would include opening up the First-Class Mail® business to competition. Privatization has worked in many other countries. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 8/3/09—Paul Murray has been appointed a non-executive director of Royal Mail Holdings as announced today. Mr. Murray, who will chair the Audit and Risk Committee, takes up his role this month. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 8/3/09—If your mailbox is empty more often these days, you’re not alone: Last year saw the biggest decline in U.S. mail since the Depression. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/31/09—The French cabinet took the first step toward a possible privatization of the country's postal service, as it approved a bill that will turn La Poste into a joint-stock company on Jan. 1. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/31/09—The DMM Advisory has extended the requirement date for CASS/MASS Cycle M Certification from July 31, 2009 to September 30, 2009. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/30/09—The future of French postal operator, La Poste, still hangs in the balance after unions promised to fight any move to privatize the company. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/30/09—Lawmakers on Thursday will consider various proposals to restructure the U.S. Postal Service®, just days after government auditors warned that it must quickly address its financial viability. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/29/09—PostFinance posted strong growth again in the first half of 2009. It acquired 65,000 new customers and opened 136,000 new accounts. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/29/09— NALC is aggressively working to support passage of S. 1507, a bill that will provide short-term relief to the Postal Service® by restructuring its payments for future retiree health benefits. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/28/09—Royal Mail plans to reduce MailSort 3 and sustainable rates by around 3 percent by October 26th. This has far reaching implications for Royal Mail’s rivals, who will find that their rates no longer undercut MS3. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/28/09—Quick action is expected on a Senate bill that would provide the Postal Service® emergency, short-term financial relief, and the APWU President is urging union members to ask their Senators to support the legislation. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/27/09—Australia Post has lodged a draft notification with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) proposing to increase the basic postage rate by five cents, effective early 2010. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/27/09—Legislation to provide emergency financial relief to the Postal Service® was introduced in the Senate on Thursday and is expected to be cleared by a Senate panel within days. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/24/09—Canada Post has announced the finalists for the 2009 Canada Post Community Literacy Awards. Included on the list of 50 finalists are stories of perseverance, overcoming great odds and the value of community support for literacy programs and their students. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/24/09—Postal officials are spreading the word that they may seek emergency rate increases next year. Various scenarios have been bandied about, including one that would raise the price of the 44-cent First Class Mail® stamp to 50 cents and other rates by similar amounts. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/23/09—TNT is taking aim at Deutsche Post's domination of the German distribution market by teaming up with regional press groups to combine forces against Deutsche Post. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/23/09—UPS today reported an operating profit of $895 million on a 16.7% revenue decline for the second quarter ending June 30. The quarter's results were adversely affected by continuing weakness in global economic activity. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/22/09—Postal Services Group – a business within New Zealand Post Group – will further enhance productivity by moving to Google Apps, Postal Services chief executive officer Peter Fenton says. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/22/09—The US Postal Service® has announced a public forum on August 11 at 1 PM to discuss work share discount methodologies in First-Class Mail® and Standard Mail®. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/21/09—First-of-its-kind, DHL SCCE is supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board; aims to develop the nation's status as the world's leading logistics hub. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/21/09—The PRC will hold a pre-hearing conference on July 30 at 9:30am to hear public views on the US Postal Service's recent proposal to close some of its retail stations and branches. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/20/09—The CWU will step up strike action next week in an effort to force Royal Mail to renegotiate its modernization plan. Three days of action are planned for July 25th, 27th and 28th. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/20/09—Postal workers say a congressional plan to fix the budget shortfalls at the USPS® is short sighted and have asked the White House to broker a better solution. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/17/09—POSTA Uganda has announced it is going to extend its services to be able to reach the majority of households in Uganda. The initiative will be completed in five years time. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/17/09—The major postal unions have requested a meeting with the White House to discuss the Postal Service’s “deepening crisis.” They want the White House to intervene with Congress or they will run out of money this year. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/16/09—At a time of an unprecedented mail volume decline and challenging trading conditions, there have been 237 redundancies throughout the New Zealand Post Group in the first half of this year. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/16/09—Eligible mailings for the Saturation Mail Volume Incentive Program will now include mailings paid for by pre-canceled stamps, meter imprints, or permit imprints. The deadline for enrollment is August 1, 2009. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/15/09—Australia Post will soon stop supplying plastic bags to customers in its retail outlets to help reduce their impact on the environment. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/15/09—In response to the staggering decline in mail volume, the Postal Service® has implemented significant changes to the postal network, with more to come. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/14/09—The Communication Workers Union has confirmed that strike action will take place on July 17 in London, Edinburgh, Bristol, Darlington, Stoke, Plymouth, Leamington Spa, Norfolk and Essex. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/14/09—A House committee has thrown the U.S. Postal Service® a lifeline, but it won't be substantial enough to allow the agency to fully escape the financial quicksand pulling it under. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/13/09—The U.S. and Poste Italiene jointly establish a cyber-crime force aimed at preventing identity theft, computer hacking, and other computer-based crime. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/13/09—USPS® has informed NALC that it is conducting a study of the impact of switching to five-day delivery and developing an implementation plan. The study was to be completed in 60 days. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/10/09—Postal workers began three days of strike action in London starting Wednesday beginning with delivery workers, distribution and logistics on Thursday, and mail centers on Friday. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/10/09—Who doesn’t love a bargain? Shoppers in the know are heading to their local Post Office™ to enjoy a 75 percent discount on select U.S. Postal Service® merchandise, including matted and framed artwork. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/8/09—Swiss Post is deploying 110 new gas-powered vehicles to ensure environmentally friendly parcel delivery. Swiss Post has the largest gas-powered fleet in the country. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/8/09—Lawmakers from both parties are resisting the Postal Service’s attempts to end Saturday deliveries and close branches in order to make up its budget shortfall. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/7/09—Steve Lawson, editor for Hellmail Postal News, has backed calls for a concentrated effort to make Post Office™ branches a key focal point for banking services. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/7/09—Fewer than 2 percent of U.S. Postal Service® employees who were offered a chance at early retirement last month accepted the offer—far less than postal management expected. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 7/6/09—Canada Post has submitted a regulatory proposal to set the domestic basic letter rate (BLR) for letters weighing 30g or less for a five-year period starting January 11, 2010. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 7/6/09—The laws of economics say the U.S. Postal Service® needs to reduce the number of Post Offices. But the laws of the United States may say otherwise. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/29/09—Canada Post has submitted a regulatory proposal to set the domestic basic letter rate (BLR) for letters weighing 30g or less for a five-year period starting January 11, 2010. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/29/09—A house panel, by unanimous voice vote, approved a version of the H.R. 22 bill that would permit the USPS® to borrow funds for the next three years from its Retiree Health Benefits Fund to pay current retiree health premiums. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/26/09—Happy 200th birthday Australia Post! Two hundred years ago today, Australia’s first Postmaster collected 36 letters which had just arrived from England. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/26/09—The House unanimously approved a bill that could increase the pensions for hundreds of thousands of federal employees covered by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/25/09—The owners of Post Danmark A/S and Posten AB have completed the work to prepare the establishment of a joint group with 50,000 staff members and revenues of SEK 45 billion. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/25/09—The US Postal Service® processed 2.8 billion fewer pieces of mail in the month of May than it did in the same time period a year ago. The steepest decline was in advertising mail, down 24 percent. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/24/09—Internal affairs minister Tsutomu Sato may review the four-way split of Japan Post services, saying it needs to be managed based on the current situation. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/24/09—The U.S. Postal Service® is preparing some price breaks for the money-losing Periodicals class, possibly a revamping of the “ride-along” pricing and regulations. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/23/09—Beginning next week, it will be even easier and cheaper to mail your letters with Swiss Post thanks to the reduced number of weight classes. All letter prices will include VAT. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/23/09— The PRC has adopted final rules on the treatment of non-public materials provided to the Commission by the USPS® and other parties. The final rules meet statutory standards. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/22/09—The CWU’s strike action in parts of London today is completely at odds with its repeated claim to support modernization and "to introduce new ways of working throughout the business." http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/22/09—The U.S. Postal Service® is projecting a loss exceeding $6 billion for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, which puts retiree health benefit contributions in jeopardy unless a bill is passed by the U.S. Congress. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 6/19/09—Royal Mail today emphasized an urgent need to continue making changes to its business in a "calm, measured, and structured way" and invited continuous involvement and dialogue with its unions and employees. http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 6/19/09—FedEx, the nation's second largest package shipper, lost more money in the last quarter, as consumers and businesses downsized shipments and the company took over $1 billion in one-time charges.