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 The over 150-year-old Indian postal system is set for a major technological advancement to improve its customer service, deliver new services, and improve operational efficiencies. Tue, 30 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Between now and Christmas Eve, the Postal Service™ will deliver 15.8 billion cards, letters, and packages across the country, and around the world. The busiest mailing day is set for Monday, Dec. 20. Tue, 30 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post launches a free application for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch that will provide customers with convenient and easy access to two of the most popular Web tools at CanadaPost.ca. Mon, 29 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The White House has issued the following “fact sheet” announcing a proposal to freeze the wages of “all civilian federal employees, including those in various alternative pay plans” for two years. Mon, 29 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan Post Holdings Co. has agreed with China Post to cooperate in delivering goods ordered online by Chinese consumers through Japanese Internet mail-order companies. Wed, 24 Nov 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The postal service’s Inspector General recently reviewed how satisfied customers are with the USPS’s Full Service Intelligent Mail® product— here’s the IG’s summary. Wed, 24 Nov 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An Post’s Mail Media Unit is targeting small to medium size enterprises with the perfect Direct Mail tool which is designed to reach customers, increase loyalty, and generate sales. Tue, 23 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The National Association of Letter Carriers responds to the press release the US Postal Service® released on Sunday, calling it “full of spin and distortions aimed at influencing public opinion.” Tue, 23 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Deutsche Post DHL and international, not-for-profit network, Teach For All, will work together on a global basis to expand existing Teach For All organizations in Argentina, Chile, Peru, and India. Mon, 22 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Contract negotiations with the APWU and the NRLCA expired at midnight Nov. 20. While negotiations with the NRLCA resulted in an impasse, both parties agreed to extend the negotiation deadline until Nov. 23 at noon ET. Mon, 22 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Johnny Thijs, CEO for Belgian Post, said this week that he was confident the company was ready for liberalization of the Belgian postal market on January 1, 2011. Fri, 19 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The USPS® has filed a motion to prevent organizations representing some of its customers from intervening in its appeal against the PRC’s denial of the exigent rate increase the USPS requested earlier this year. Fri, 19 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Slovenian Post introduces a new service which allows customers in Slovenia to return packages—postage free—to foreign countries. Currently, the agreement only applies to packages coming from Germany. Thu, 18 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Last week the PRC announced on its website that it has funded six studies examining the social value of mail. The summary of the studies are as follows: Thu, 18 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The first nine months of the 2010 financial year developed very satisfactorily for Austrian Post. It also succeeded in counteracting the downward trend on the basis of efficiency-enhancing measures. Wed, 17 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The head of HR activities for the nation’s second largest employer with well over half a million employees has been selected as the first public sector executive to receive the nation’s top honor in the field of human resources. Wed, 17 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan Post Holdings Co will promote 8,438 non-regular group workers to regular employees on Dec 1. Some 34,000 who met certain conditions, such as working hours, took written examinations and interviews. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General John E. Potter could earn about $5.5 million in deferred compensation, retirement benefits, and accrued annual leave for the rest of his life when he leaves the U.S. Postal® Service next month. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Eye tracking research released by the Royal Mail has provided a unique insight into how consumers interact with door drops and a blueprint for the perfect unaddressed mail campaign. Mon, 15 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Has buying postage stamps over the Internet finally caught on with consumers and businesses? Stamps.com’s earnings have beat analysts’ estimates, as the company has boosted its subscriber base among large businesses. Mon, 15 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Starting Jan. 2011, Israel Postal Company Ltd. will be required to send all incoming parcels to Customs, and will charge the addressees a $10 release fee. Fri, 12 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm From the U.S. Postal Service® Board of Governors meeting: USPS® announces a $8.5 billion loss for FY2010. A full year report will be available on Monday, November 15. Fri, 12 Nov 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT Express announced today it is taking a series of additional measures to protect its customers and their consignments as well as its employees and networks from the threat of bomb-parcels. Thu, 11 Nov 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An upcoming change in the December 6 update of the Domestic Mail Manual will allow attachments on letter-size mail when postage is paid at automation letter prices. Thu, 11 Nov 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail today announced an out-of-the-box e-commerce fulfillment tool, specifically designed to help small to medium-sized retailers save time on order management processes. Wed, 10 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Ruth Goldway, chairman of the PRC, speaks with Direct Marketing News' news editor Frank Washkuch, about how the USPS® can improve its financial situation and consumers' response to possible five-day delivery. Wed, 10 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Lithuanian Post said last week that in order to avoid running at a loss in 2011, it would be increasing the processing costs of press periodicals. The distribution fee increases could be as much as 40 percent. Tue, 9 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Embracing electronic technology to promote the use of direct mail, the Postal Service™ has revamped the companion website to Deliver® magazine, its publication for marketers. Tue, 9 Nov 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Australia Post is supporting Planet Ark's National Recycling Week (Nov. 8-14) by making it easy for Australians to recycle their e-waste through the 'Cartridges 4 Planet Ark' and MobileMuster programs. Mon, 8 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The DC Circuit Court of Appeals has granted the USPS® request for expedited consideration of its appeal against the PRC’s ruling in the exigency rate case. The PRC’s response is due on Jan. 14. Mon, 8 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Data gathered by the UPU from 20 of the world’s largest Posts and Express Carriers suggests that business is picking up after hitting its lowest slump since the Great Depression, mid-way through 2009. Fri, 5 Nov 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® Senior VP Steve Kearney speaks out and vehemently denies accusations that the USPS® is looking at “penalties” as a new revenue stream. Fri, 5 Nov 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An Post has put the ‘i’ back into mail with a newly launched App which brings post and post offices to your fingertips. It lets users track and trace letters or parcels, find the nearest PO, and calculate postage. Thu, 4 Nov 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is ready to help international shippers get a head start on the holidays. It recommends the following deadlines for international delivery of holiday cards and packages by Dec. 25. Thu, 4 Nov 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Australia Post has been selected as the Australian distribution partner for the global launch of American Express's new prepaid, reloadable foreign currency card. Wed, 3 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® announces the new shipping prices for 2011. Prices for Priority Mail®, Express Mail®, and other shipping services will change Jan. 2, 2011. Wed, 3 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Royal Mail today blamed falling mail volume for a loss-making situation in its letters business. The number of letters delivered each day has fallen from 84 million to 68 million. Tue, 2 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postal employees are being asked to identify and hold any mail that appears to have originated in Yemen. These precautionary measures are being taken to protect USPS® employees, customers, and the mail. Tue, 2 Nov 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Mail delivery was delayed throughout Finland on Friday due to illegal strikes by Itella's sorting and delivery staff. Itella announced that the strikes were illegal, as no advance notice of the action was given. Mon, 1 Nov 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® has temporarily suspended acceptance of inbound international mail originating in Yemen effective October 30, 2010, in response to the potential threat posed by suspicious packages. Mon, 1 Nov 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx Corp. today launched the next evolution of its ambitious global advertising effort, “FedEx Delivers to a Changing World.” It’s a digital Web experience that puts global business trends and insights at visitors’ fingertips. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Counterfeiters are inundating the U.S. Postal Service® with fake postage stamps and inspectors can't even say how bad the problem really is. The easiest way to tell fakes from the real thing is the price. Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post introduced Canada Post Comparison Shopper, a one-stop shopping website that helps Canadians instantly find, compare, and purchase products online. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In a 2010 survey conducted by marketing research firm NewMediaMetrics, consumers say the USPS® is 15th-ranked among brands they find the most attractive. Thu, 28 Oct 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Deutsche Post will be introducing price changes for a number of international postal products on January 1, 2011, meaning that on the whole, customers will benefit from price reductions. Wed, 27 Oct 2010 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm John E. Potter writes a farewell letter to all postal employees. “It’s been a pleasure to work with you.” Wed, 27 Oct 2010 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Financial transactions company Itella Information has signed a deal with Norway Post about acquiring full ownership of Itella Information AS in Norway. Tue, 26 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm After nearly 10 years as U.S. Postmaster General and CEO of the U.S. Postal Service®, John E. Potter announced that he will retire on Dec. 3, after 32 years of service. Tue, 26 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Unite, the union which represents thousands of Royal Mail managers, is to ballot its members for possible strike action after the announcement that Royal Mail is to shed 1,500 jobs. Mon, 25 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The USPS® has decided to appeal the Sept. 30 ruling of the PRC denying the Postal Service® exigent price request. Their position is the PRC misread the statute and applied an incorrect standard in evaluating the request. Mon, 25 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT Post has written to the unions saying that it is prepared to reduce the number of involuntary redundancies (4500) by 1400. It will also offer 200 people work temporarily, until the end of 2012. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® starts delivering the 2010 holiday season today with four, new Forever Stamps™ and a single stamp featuring a musical angel at the American Stamp Dealers Association Mega Stamp Show in NYC. Fri, 22 Oct 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail this week launched an improved and extended range of tracked services to smaller retailers to help them improve the delivery experience for their customers. Thu, 21 Oct 2010 8:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS today announced adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.93 for the third quarter of 2010, a 69 percent improvement over the prior-year period. Global revenue saw a 62 percent increase. Thu, 21 Oct 2010 8:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm DHL launched a new range of premium express international delivery services into and out of the United States this week, backed by a major publicity campaign called “Time Definitive” express (TDX). Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited the U.S. Postal Service® with five alleged willful violations at its Columbus processing center. They face $210,000 in fines. Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post will continue to provide free delivery of letters and parcels from family and friends to Canadian troops deployed in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas during the upcoming holiday season. Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The big question from postal employees at or near retirement age is: Will there be another USPS® early retirement incentive this year? The last three early retirement offers have failed to get the needed numbers of employees to retire. Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Austrian Post and Swiss Post are planning to consolidate their international activities in the field of addressed promotional mailings in a joint venture. Fri, 15 Oct 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm OSHA has cited the U.S. Postal Service® for exposing workers to potential electrical hazards at its mail processing facility in Huntington, W.Va. Proposed penalties? $212,500. Fri, 15 Oct 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The UK coalition government has announced it is to push ahead with privatization and present the Postal Services Bill before Parliament. Up to 90 percent of the Royal Mail could be owned by private buyers. Thu, 14 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In an attempt to hold down next year’s increase in postage rates, an alliance of mailers have challenged a “nonsensical” informal ruling issued by a PRC lawyer. Thu, 14 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The China post office launched “Letters to the Future” on Sunday in Beijing. The public can get the envelopes through local post offices or designated partners and deliver their letters in any postal boxes in China. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postage rates are likely to increase about 1.7 percent in January, as a result of a letter that the PRC's chief lawyer issued today. Wed, 13 Oct 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The cabinet approved a bill last Friday morning to reorganize Japan Post. The only change is that the reorganization will be implemented in Apr. 2012, rather than Oct. 2011, as stipulated in the ditched bill. Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm According to Target Marketing, many companies continue to use mail to promote and retain customers. Each year, they publish a list of the top 50 mailers. Here's the top four: Tue, 12 Oct 2010 10:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Last Saturday marked 'World Post Day,' the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the beginning of the free flow of global mail. In the UK, the origins of the postal service date back to 1516. Mon, 11 Oct 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Election 2010: With the Nov. 2 general election rapidly approaching, official election mail and campaign mailings are hitting the mailstream—and, more are on the way. Mon, 11 Oct 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The need to embrace new technologies to improve service and implement a strategy of diversifying the business are the messages from the 2010 Universal Postal Union Strategy Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. Fri, 8 Oct 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® marked yesterday National Energy Awareness Month, with postal officials highlighting savings and encouraging employees, suppliers, and mail industry partners to conserve even more energy. Fri, 8 Oct 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Norway postal employees will pay dearly if the postal market is liberalized. In some countries, wages have fallen by almost 50 percent. The report by Copenhagen Economics is the latest in a series of reports. Thu, 7 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In a letter to the PRC, the Postal Service® asks for clarification regarding the total increase in rates under the cap. Mailers should clearly understand that rates will be rising in calendar year 2011. Thu, 7 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Premium Indian postal services, such as business mails, logistic post and speed post, will get expensive as the Indian government looks for ways to bring down the deficit of the postal department. Wed, 6 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Zumbox announced today it will showcase the latest version of its Zumbox digital postal platform at Post-Expo 2010 in Copenhagen. The company’s CEO, John Payne, will also speak at the World Postal Business Forum. Wed, 6 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Starting as early as November, Canada Post will anchor a new direct-marketing network that will connect advertisers and consumers at a local level. Tue, 5 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The decline in mail volumes, particularly single-piece First Class Mail®, could see the USPS® turn into a one-way communications system. That’s the claim published by the USPS® Office of the Inspector General. Tue, 5 Oct 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post acknowledges the decisions made by the National Council on the new postal legislation. This will create important conditions for Swiss Post to hold its own as a competitive service provider. Mon, 4 Oct 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC’s denial of the U.S. Postal Service’s request for an exigent rate increase could force both the USPS® and Congress to make some fundamental changes about how the service is financed. Mon, 4 Oct 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm CEO of Norway Post, Dag Mejdell, recently held an oral intervention at the UPU Strategy Conference in Nairobi. He spoke about the importance of acting together as a united postal industry. Fri, 1 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General John E. Potter responds to the PRC ruling with a public statement detailing his disappointment with the ruling and vows to “carefully manage every dollar we spend in the upcoming fiscal year.” Fri, 1 Oct 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The state-run postal service provider Korea Post is stepping up its efforts to help local information technology firms enter central Asian markets. Thu, 30 Sep 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Breaking postal news! The PRC, in a unanimous decision, has denied the US Postal Service® the emergency rate increase it requested earlier this year. Thu, 30 Sep 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS is planning to set up a domestic Postal Service™ in China and will submit a license application to the Chinese postal regulator as early as this week. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Security researchers from Vietnamese security vendor Bkis, warn of a new wave of spam emails distributing the Oficla trojan, which pose as package delivery failure notifications from the USPS®. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Brazil's postal service ECT plans to equip its couriers with 1,800 smartphones. The devices will include a Java application developed internally by the company to alert them at the moment of delivery of parcels sent. Tue, 28 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The 2010 holiday shipping dates for APOs/FPOs/DPOs are now available. Go to pe.usps.com and click Postal Bulletins in the blue navigation bar. Tue, 28 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Israel Postal Company announces the NIS 50 million purchase of automatic mail sorting equipment from Italian firm Elsag Datamat. The new equipment will enable 70 percent of mail to be sorted automatically. Mon, 27 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The US Postal Service® quietly submitted its August financial estimates to the PRC late Friday afternoon. The service reported a loss of $1.6 billion in August, bringing its fiscal year to date losses to $7.7 billion. Mon, 27 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail workers will be offered at least 10 percent of the business's shares if it is privatized. If taken up, the workers' share would be the biggest of any privatized UK company for 25 years. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General Hails Carper Legislation “Roadmap to Recovery” for Postal Service™. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm More than 550 delegates from 116 countries representing the worldwide postal sector are meeting at UN headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, today and tomorrow to ponder the sector’s present and future. Thu, 23 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Sen. Tom Carper will unveil a bill today designed to give the Postal Service™ more flexibility on major operational and financial decisions without congressional approval. Thu, 23 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm imail, the leading desktop-to-doorstep hybrid mail solution from UK Mail, has launched an innovative canvassing solution to enable companies to undertake targeted, fast, and cost-effective direct marketing campaigns. Wed, 22 Sep 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Federal Register proposes rule to change the timeframe for providing address correction without charge for First-Class Mail®, Standard Mail®, and BPM pieces that are eligible for Full-Service Intelligent Mail® prices. Wed, 22 Sep 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The need for fresh thinking in the postal sector has never been greater, especially in driving innovation to meet the evolving demands of consumer and business customers. Tue, 21 Sep 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Reducing delivery to 5 days a week may not be enough. There has been some discussion of whether the viable model for the U.S. Postal Service® of the future will incorporate 3-day delivery. Tue, 21 Sep 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Western Union Company and DHL Express today announced their intention to expand their cooperation to introduce international business payment services to DHL customers throughout Europe. Mon, 20 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Two Federal Register notices were published last week, one on the Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode, and the other on Express Mail® Open and Distribute and Priority Mail® Open and Distribute. Mon, 20 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Paper statements are as important as UK-based call centers and local bank branches to customers, according to a study that reveals removing key transactional communications can damage relationships. Fri, 17 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® is conducting a test with a marketing and advertising program for PO Boxes in four markets. The campaign has direct mail, radio, print, Internet, and point-of-purchase retail elements. Fri, 17 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm On Sept. 22-24, the UPU's Strategy Conference in Kenya will explore the future of the worldwide postal sector. The Conference is the most important event of the year for the international postal sector. Thu, 16 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In his annual state of the business address to the mailing industry, Postmaster General John E. Potter stressed that long-term sustainability for the Postal Service™ will be achieved through fundamental change. Thu, 16 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The CWU is laying the groundwork for a battle with the coalition government by bringing out the big guns—calling on the support of other trade unions to help it shoot down plans for a privatized Royal Mail. Wed, 15 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS has launched a communications program to demonstrate how it has vaulted past competitors to offer the broadest range of logistics services in the industry. Wed, 15 Sep 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Alternative parcel delivery service, myHermes.co.uk, has introduced a hot new pricing band to increase its offering for customers sending parcels in the UK. The new price band is valid until October 25. Tue, 14 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® has begun contract negotiations with the National Rural Letter Carriers Association (NRLCA). The current contract expires at midnight, Nov. 20. Tue, 14 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm ONEPOST, the UK’s leading provider of independent postal advice and management, is to launch a new postal service, ONEPOST Connect, at this year’s ECMOD exhibition at Earls Court Oct. 6-7. Mon, 13 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service’s sustainability goals and plans are now available on the White House’s new website. The website presents federal government goals for clean energy, reducing waste, and greenhouse gas reduction. Mon, 13 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Hold up liberalization of Europe’s postal services. That was the call of demonstrators representing more than 150 trade unions from across Europe. Fri, 10 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A total of 638 employees, or about 4 percent, of the 18,000 workers on Capitol Hill owe money to the IRS. That's higher than the 3 percent of overall total of federal workers across government who owe back taxes. Fri, 10 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post International UK has launched an innovative returns solution for distance retailers with an international customer base. Mail order and online shoppers can return small goods free-of-charge from 18 European countries. Thu, 9 Sep 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm What do consumers find in their mailboxes these days? According to this year's Top 50 Mailer list, it's more offers from nonprofits and publishers. Thu, 9 Sep 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Royal Mail has launched what it claims is the world's first "intelligent" stamp. Royal Mail says intelligent stamps "mark the next step in the evolution of our stamps, bringing them firmly into the 21st Century." Wed, 8 Sep 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC will meet in CLOSED session at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 9, to begin deliberations on the USPS® postal rate hike. It will hold an OPEN meeting at 2:30 p.m. on Friday to adopt its Fiscal Year 2012 budget. Wed, 8 Sep 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that Deutsche Post, Germany's national postal operator, does not have to repay $572 million in state aid to the German government. Fri, 3 Sep 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Video of the APWU/USPS contract negotiations opening statements. The U.S. Postal Service® opened contract talks with its largest union Wednesday seeking cost cuts that could reshape the nation's mail-delivery system. Fri, 3 Sep 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post described its half-year profit as 'pleasing'. In the first half of 2010, Swiss Post generated Group profit of 484 million Swiss francs—an increase of 35 percent on the same period last year. Thu, 2 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® will seek to cut costs by paring the size of its full-time workforce in contract talks with its largest labor union. Talks with the 113,000-member National Rural Letter Carriers Association start in two weeks. Thu, 2 Sep 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT Post announced today new rates for sending mail within the Netherlands and destinations within Europe will begin January 1, 2011. The basic domestic-mail rate for the Netherlands will increase by two euro-cents. Wed, 1 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Last week, the Postal Service™ reached an important milestone in its initiative to reach out to employees using technology. Now, all rural carrier postings, bids, and awards are available online. Wed, 1 Sep 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Third Sector reported the results of a TNT Post of a survey it conducted in Great Britain on the effectiveness of mail for gaining contributions by mail. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm How you can help save Saturday delivery: Please write to the PRC and submit a comment in support of Saturday delivery, as the PRC’s support of Saturday delivery will be key in getting congressional support to maintain it. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Letter carriers in B.C. have filed a stack of grievances to protest Canada Post's refusal to backfill them when they take time off work, according to their union. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Traditional forms of communications like word of mouth, direct mail, and newspapers enjoy higher levels of trust among US consumers than social media and other online services. Mon, 30 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Itella will test newspaper reading with the electronic iPad reading device at the end of the year. In the test, the electronic version of the newspaper will be delivered to NetPosti, an electronic mailbox provided by Itella. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Newly released memos of extensive interviews conducted earlier this year by the USPS's office of inspector general with PMG Potter provide a rare look into the operations in the top reaches of the Postal Service™. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post will offer positions for 751 apprentices in 2011. The number of apprentices at Swiss Post has been increasing annually since 2004. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The US Postal Service® lost $764 million in July as First-Class Mail® volume continued to decline, although at a slower rate than in previous months. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm While Express Mail® represents efficiency and speed, and is prevalent in China, there is another type of mail emerging as a new business: "Future mail." Wed, 25 Aug 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Federal Register has published the final rule permitting the mailing of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco to APO/FPO/DPO destination addresses when using Priority Mail® with Delivery Confirmation™ Service. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Government has been urged to drop Royal Mail privatization plans after a new survey showed that most people wanted the Postal Service™ to remain publicly-owned. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An independent federal agency, the U.S. Postal Service® is the only delivery service that visits every address in the nation of 146 million homes and businesses. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Four hundred Postal Corporation of Kenya employees are up for voluntary retirement as the company seeks to restructure itself and improve efficiency. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC will begin consideration of the US Postal Service’s request for an “exigent” rate increase on Thursday, September 9. The latest possible meeting date would be Friday, October 1. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT Post has launched a new service, adMail, to help increase the ROI for marketers of promotional direct mail. AdMail is a reduced cost service that has been specifically designed for promotional direct mail. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Affordable Mail Alliance has filed more comments with the PRC, opposing the USPS® request for an “exigent” rate increase. Among them: USPS position that it’s unable to do more to cut costs without action by the PRC or Congress. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.K. government has appointed investment bank UBS AG (UBS) to advise it on options for the future ownership of Royal Mail, Britain's state-run postal delivery service. Thu, 19 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm With more than 10,000 locations across the country, nearly 50 percent more than last year, it’s even easier to be green by recycling Post Office Box mail. Thu, 19 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx plans to strengthen the company’s international and domestic services across India by launching a new flight from Bengaluru, and establishing direct connections to Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Department of Labor is seeking to consolidate complaints regarding the Postal Service’s ongoing and systemic violations of safe electrical work practices. They’ve invited APWU to participate in settlement discussions. Wed, 18 Aug 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm 21 Grams has won the coveted 2010 Customer Service World Mail Award for it's C/O (Care Of) administration service that provides end to end postage cost control—for mailers to better manage their postage/costs. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® filed a request with the PRC to transfer commercial Standard Mail® Fulfillment Parcels from the market-dominant product list to the competitive product list. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Russian Post vows to provide a free parcels service for humanitarian aid to areas of Russia affected by forest fires. At least 50 people are thought to have perished in the fires. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The US Postal Service® needs to play in the digital world, major postal customers told the organization's executives last week at the USPS' Innovation Symposium. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The European Commission has established the European Regulators Group for Postal Services (ERGP). It will facilitate consultation, coordination, and cooperation. Thu, 12 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Congressman Stephen Lynch, chairman of the House Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service™, and the District of Columbia, opposes the USPS’s plan to eliminate Saturday mail delivery. Thu, 12 Aug 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The UPU’s Global Monitoring System is now up and running. The GMS is a truly global system using affordable RFID technology that is accessible to every Post, from industrialized countries and developing ones. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A recap of today’s PRC case hearing. The focus of the testimony was on Stephen J. Masse, V.P. Finance and Planning, of the USPS®. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS has expanded a partnership with an Indonesian company that will market, pick up, and deliver UPS packages throughout the country. UPS has done business in Indonesia since 1988. Tue, 10 Aug 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® CFO Joseph Corbett has testified before the PRC, that even if the Postal Service™ receives the billions in relief it’s seeking from Congress, it still needs a greater-than-inflation postal rate increase to survive. Tue, 10 Aug 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Dutch postal regulator OPTA remains at loggerheads with TNT over pricing levels for the universal service. The regulator said it had been seeking to establish actual costs of individual services since June 2009. Mon, 9 Aug 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Regulatory will hear from three USPS® finance executives this week as it considers the postal service’s request for an ‘exigent’ rate increase. All hearings will be broadcast live on the Web at 9:30am. Mon, 9 Aug 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Estonian Post's E-invoicing service (digital invoicing) is proving popular with Estonia's public sector. E-invoicing delivers a more convenient Web-based electronic invoice approval process. Fri, 6 Aug 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC says it has received over 12,000 comments from the public on the postal service’s proposal to eliminate Saturday mail delivery. Chairman Ruth Y. Goldway thanked the public on the PRC’s website for their input. Fri, 6 Aug 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post International UK has formed a partnership with Direct Entry Services. As a “Premium Partner,” DES can sell Swiss Post International products and services under the “Swiss Post” brand. Thu, 5 Aug 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® ended the third quarter of fiscal year 2010 (April 1 – June 30) with a net loss of $3.5 billion, compared with a net loss of $2.4 billion for the same quarter last year. Thu, 5 Aug 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Australia Post has partnered with OfficeMax to launch an online office products store. OfficeMax's 10,000 products are now available on the Australia Post website at www.auspost.com/stationery. Wed, 4 Aug 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Saying the Affordable Mail Alliance made “manifestly misleading comparisons,” the U.S. Postal Service® has asked the PRC to deny an alliance request to dismiss the Postal Service’s current pricing request. Wed, 4 Aug 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT came a step closer to a break-up of its postal and express delivery businesses yesterday, after it decided on a full separation of the two divisions as it reported a slump in profit. Tue, 3 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® declined The White House’s suggestion that it conduct a pilot test of five-day delivery, according to a document made public this week. Tue, 3 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT N.V. announces that it has appointed Bernard Bot as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). TNT will notify his appointment as member of the Board of Management to the shareholders in the upcoming AGM in April 2011. Mon, 2 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm For a consumer occasionally shipping packages, especially small ones, the U.S. Postal Service® is often your best choice for price and convenience, experts said. But, that advice comes with many exceptions. Mon, 2 Aug 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva removed the director of the country's postal service yesterday. Radio and television reports indicated that Lula was dissatisfied with the postal service's performance. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The National League of Postmasters sent a letter from the USPS® headquarters announcing all hiring, promotions, and placement of non-bargaining employees at Headquarters, Areas, and Districts are suspended. Fri, 30 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Poste Italiane is introducing a new, more responsive delivery service in order to meet the increasing demand by domestic customers and small business for later and more flexible deliveries. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A congressional panel voted yesterday to make sure Americans keep getting mail six days a week. But, senators on the panel that oversees postal operations opposed the idea. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Russia Post gets fined for late deliveries after a check on express delivery was performed by a state watchdog. Supervisors sent express letters to different regions in Russia and four out of the 10 letters arrived late. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm PMG Jack Potter has named Guy Cottrell the 38th chief inspector of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. He begins his new assignment Aug. 1 and will also serve as chairman of the UPU’s Postal Security Group. Wed, 28 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Union of Postal Workers of Paraguay informed UNI Americas Post and Logistics, that Law 4016 creating the National Direction of Post in Paraguay was enacted, and is full force since July 14th, 2010. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The DMA and the DMANF asked the PRC to dismiss the USPS’s request to increase postal rates by ten times the rate permissible by law. The petition was filed by the Affordable Mail Alliance. Tue, 27 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm As part of a number of changes announced by New Zealand Post today, postage for a Standard Post medium letter will increase by 10 cents to 60 cents starting October 1, 2010. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Economic Policy Institute has created a 9-page brief holding congressional mandates responsible for most of the postal service’s recent losses. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm DMrocket, a direct mail division of SingPost, has produced a direct mail pack branded as “Things Box,” with the tagline “surprises for grabs,” to make direct mail more attractive. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm One year after officially opening its first green roof in midtown Manhattan, the Postal Service™ continues to exceed its energy savings targets. It’s more than two thirds of the way to achieving its goal to reduce energy use by 30 percent by 2015. Fri, 23 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Experts cited serious security risks yesterday in Germany’s new De-Mail system, which is set to let users send official letters and documents over the internet starting next year. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® and the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) have agreed to jointly provide fulfillment, information management services, and customer maintenance to federal agencies. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx Express has won the Institute of Transport Management’s “Best Global Cargo Hub” award for its Memphis World Hub. The Memphis World Hub connects customers to more than 220 countries. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Today, the House Federal Workforce, Postal Service™, and District of Columbia Subcommittee of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, will hold a mark-up of H.R. 5746. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Romanian Post has launched an initiative to encourage more children to read, and has gathered over 15,000 books in 350 urban post offices. The scheme has been called "A book opens a new world." Tue, 20 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is reaching out to e-tailers, with a campaign showcasing the power of catalogs with the potential to double online transactions and achieve revenue lift of over 100 percent. Tue, 20 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Iceland Post recently started to sell and distribute a message in a bottle. The bottle contains a sheet of paper for the sender to write on. The sheet is then inserted into the bottle, and the bottle is sealed and mailed. Mon, 19 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm OSHA has a new website specifically dedicated to its whistleblower protection program at www.whistleblowers.gov. The site is designed to provide workers, employers and the public with easily accessible information. Mon, 19 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Norwegian mail service Posten Norge has been fined NOK 102 million (EUR 12.9 mill) by the European Free Trade Association's watchdog ESA for breach of EEA competition rules. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm What a difference a month makes! More than 92 percent of the comments submitted to the PRC in June regarding the number of mail delivery days favored six-day delivery. Fri, 16 Jul 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post Corporation announces the completion today of its successful inaugural public debt issue. Net proceeds of the offering will be used primarily to finance the company’s modernization program. Thu, 15 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 49 percent of adults believe the cost of stamps is already too high, even as the USPS® hopes for a two-cent hike in the cost of a First-Class™ stamp in January. Thu, 15 Jul 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Local Major German email providers are readying for the new De-Mail system that will let users send letters and documents over the Web that are as legally binding as printed material delivered by post. Wed, 14 Jul 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm From July 14 through July 27, the PRC will conduct and audio broadcast five hearings on five day delivery, and three technical conferences on the exigent rate case. Links to the audio will be posted at prc.gov. Wed, 14 Jul 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post’s electronic letterbox is ready for the holidays. Swiss Post Box, which enables users to receive and process their mail electronically, regardless of place and time, is now available to the public. Tue, 13 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Officials with the USPS® and U.S. Department of Commerce are leveraging their strategic partnership to launch a business plan aimed at empowering American businesses interested in exporting as a pathway to growth. Tue, 13 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Itella will acquire the parcel business of SmartPOST OÜ, based in Estonia. SmartPOST OÜ has established parcel sending and delivery based on self-servicing parcel terminals and doing business online. Mon, 12 Jul 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm If Congress waives the Postal Service’s annual $5.5 billion payment for retiree health benefits before its scheduled Sept. 30 adjournment, withdrawing the exigent rate case “might be something to consider.” Mon, 12 Jul 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Six months after the earthquake, Haiti Post picks up pace as its new mail processing centre opens in the capital. The new postal installation was built as part of an emergency aid project managed by the UPU. Fri, 9 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The launch of a business partnership agreement between the U.S. Postal Service® and the U.S. Department of Commerce is to occur on July 12. The business partnership will support the National Export Initiative. Fri, 9 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT is increasing rates within Europe for its Express services by an average of 3.5 percent as part of a global yield improvement program. Thu, 8 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Volume discounts and free additional weight are included in the proposed price changes the USPS® filed with the PRC this week. Price changes for the majority of products and services fall between 4 percent and 6 percent. Thu, 8 Jul 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Letter Post Compendium is now online. It enables postal retail employees to more easily consult the range of letter-post products offered by Posts around the world and better serve their customers. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Yesterday the Postal Service™ proposed a major change in its rate structure through an exigent rate case. The proposal represents a fairly bold rethinking of regulatory pricing and past economic thinking. Wed, 7 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Marc Courtois, Chairman of the Board of Canada Post, is pleased to announce the appointment of Stewart Bacon as interim President and CEO of Canada Post. His appointment is effective July 15. Tue, 6 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The USPS® has announced a new rate hike proposal. The PRC must approve the recommended price changes. The increases would not go into effect until Jan. 2, 2011. Tue, 6 Jul 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Finland has become the first country in the world to force its ISPs to treat broadband like postal services and telephone connections. Every citizen now has access to a reasonably-priced connection with a minimum speed of 1Mbps. Fri, 2 Jul 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® overfunded its pension accounts by $50 billion, because of the way in which its obligations have been calculated, according to a new audit. Fri, 2 Jul 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Korea Post, the state-run postal service agency, will expand financial services to mid- and low-income customers, as part of efforts to support the underprivileged and maintain its status as profit-seeking public firm. Thu, 1 Jul 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An independent review says the USPS® is owed at least $50 billion for CSRS overpayment. See the full report to the PRC here. Thu, 1 Jul 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post has been chosen as one of Canada’s Best 50 Corporate Citizens for the second year in a row by Corporate Knights magazine, who recognized the corporation’s dedication to social programs, environmental initiatives, and community involvement. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm When it comes to safeguarding personal information, Americans continue to trust the U.S. Postal Service® above all other government agencies. For the sixth consecutive year, the Postal Service™ has been named the “Most Trusted Government Agency” by the premier privacy trust study in America. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm New Zealand Post has just been named New Zealand's most trusted retail brand for the fourth time in five years in the Readers Digest Most Trusted Brand survey. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Ruth Goldway, chairman of the PRC, swears in the first panel during yesterday's hearing in Buffalo, NY, on the halting of Saturday mail delivery. This was the seventh and final public hearing for the commission. Tue, 29 Jun 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Dutch express and postal group TNT is rumored to be in talks with Luxembourg-based private equity firm CVC Capital Partners about selling a stake in its mail unit. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® posted a net loss of $642 million in May, including $458 million in funds allocated to a Congressionally mandated “trust fund.” That brings the year to date net loss for the USPS® to $2.9 billion. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post is continuing to develop its IncaMail service for the secure and verifiable dispatch of e-mails. The new version, IncaMail 3.0, is based on a new architecture and includes additional functions. Fri, 25 Jun 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postal Service™ employees are asking Congress to cut the Postal Service's mandatory retiree health benefit prepayments, instead of Saturday mail service, as an area to save money for the troubled agency. Fri, 25 Jun 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Beginning in November 2010, Canadians will be able to reset or change their personal identification number (PIN) at no charge on select chip-enabled credit cards at most post offices across the country. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® will face opposition from consumers and its employees if it eliminates Saturday delivery, panelists told lawmakers on Wednesday, June 23. Thu, 24 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm As Romania introduces austerity measures, Romanian Post (which employs around 35,000 people) has announced that it is to lay off a proportion of staff as part of a restructuring and modernization strategy. Wed, 23 Jun 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm "Having Their Say: Customer and Employee Views on the Future of the Postal Service" is the name of today's hearing, which will bring together the House Oversight and Government Reform subcommittee. Wed, 23 Jun 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An online service allowing marketers to take a more intelligent approach to unaddressed mail campaigns was unveiled today by Royal Mail, reinforcing the business’s commitment to improved targeting, relevance, and effectiveness. Tue, 22 Jun 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm When companies say they are reducing their reliance on promotions, vendors should see this as the beginning of a conversation about mail, not the end of one. Tue, 22 Jun 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK) has had to consider making at least 2,000 employees redundant to remain profitable. It’s weighed down by a US $25 million debt to pensioners and other creditors. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® has decided to liberalize the “ride-along” rules that have prevented product samples and certain other advertising gimmicks from running in U.S. magazines. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The winners of the prestigious 11th World Mail Awards were announced at an Awards ceremony in Copenhagen. The World Mail Awards took place on the eve of the World Mail and Express Europe Conference. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm To comply with legislation passed by Congress and signed into law by the President, cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products will be subject to new mailing regulations effective June 29, 2010. Thu, 17 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Wireless phones and services may be offered by Canada Post at its 6,500 retail locations nationwide in the future. This would be an expansion of Canada Post’s existing phone-related products. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm With the Postal Service® facing another challenging year, employees must continue to focus on reducing work hours and operating expenses. One of the primary goals is to cut 93 million work hours. Wed, 16 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm PosTech, the industry leading postal technology conference, is heading to India this year, taking place in New Delhi December 5-7. Triangle Management Services is the event organizer. Tue, 15 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The National Newspaper Association (NNA) today filed its formal opposition to the USPS’s proposal to end Saturday mail delivery. The NNA is a community newspaper organization of over 2,000 members. Tue, 15 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Switch Media, an established ISP, has reduced its mail overheads by 36 percent by using leading desktop to doormat delivery solution, imail, to send physical letters direct from a computer to business addresses. Mon, 14 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® Board will meet in a closed session in Louisville, KY June 21 and 22 to discuss strategic issues; financial matters; pricing; personnel matters; and compensation issues. Mon, 14 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm New Zealand Post is considering cutting mail deliveries to save money. Saturday-morning mail deliveries are under review, but the favored option is to cut deliveries to every two days. Fri, 11 Jun 2010 8:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The National Envelope Company, the largest envelope manufacturer in the US, filed for bankruptcy today. The company is family owned. Fri, 11 Jun 2010 8:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An Post has launched postfone, Ireland’s new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), with leading pre-pay ‘any network, any time’ rates, a range of easy-to-use mobile phones, and accessible mobile services. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® expects the USPS® Summer Sale to generate up to 1 billion new mailpieces during the sale period of July 1 to Sept. 30. Applicants in 2009 numbered 1,200. This year, 1,478 mailers applied. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Russian Postal Service™ is to install satellite tracking equipment in Post Office™ vehicles. In a joint project, 10,000 postal vehicles will be equipped with on-board satellite GPS. Wed, 9 Jun 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A majority of the people who contacted the Postal Regulatory Commission in April and May about ending Saturday mail delivery favor the proposed change, the commission revealed today. Wed, 9 Jun 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm About 10 percent of retail customers´ and small companies are using Estonia Post's new Web environment kuller.post.ee, which opened last month as a very user-friendly, online solution. Tue, 8 Jun 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Stamps.com announces its new USPS® shipping integration with Zen Cart, the popular open source e-commerce shopping cart software. Users can import customer order data and print shipping labels for all mail classes. Tue, 8 Jun 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post Corporation achieved a major milestone today in its multi-year program to modernize the Canadian postal system as it formally opened its new state-of-the-art mail processing plant in Winnipeg. Mon, 7 Jun 2010 8:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Despite the United States Postal Service’s recent reports that general mail volumes being down, direct mail is on the rise, according to direct marketing intelligence firm Mintel Comperemedia. Mon, 7 Jun 2010 8:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan's Lower House of Parliament passed legislation this week to reverse the privatization of the nation's sprawling postal services, likely intensifying tensions with U.S. and European officials. Fri, 4 Jun 2010 10:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm MailPro May/June issue is available for viewing at USPS.com. The newsletter is published bimonthly at no charge for mailing professionals. Fri, 4 Jun 2010 10:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Australia Post welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announcement that they have no objection to increasing the basic postage rate by five cents, effective on June 28. Thu, 3 Jun 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General John E. Potter announced Susan Plonkey, VP of Sales, as Acting President of Mailing and Shipping Services. Plonkey brings a strong customer-oriented and operational background to the position. Thu, 3 Jun 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Moya Greene, currently President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canada Post Corporation, is to become the new Chief Executive at Royal Mail. She becomes the first woman to hold the post. Wed, 2 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Listen to a new interview with Jim Cochrane, USPS® vice president for product visibility and operational performance, on FederalNewsRadio.com. Wed, 2 Jun 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm New Zealand Post Group's corporate responsibility achievements have been recognized with an award presented in Canberra last night. The Group received the Best Progress, Silver Category. Tue, 1 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® entered into an international tri-lateral agreement in Shanghai, China with eBay Greater China and Southeast Asia (eBay GC) and China Post Express and Logistics Corporation. Tue, 1 Jun 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Czech Post has introduced tighter checks on individuals collecting, storing, or sending money through its systems. The measures are to help pinpoint potential money laundering and terrorist financing. Thu, 27 May 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Small- and medium-sized business exporters are confident about their companies' futures, especially when it comes to international sales, according to this year's Business Monitor US survey commissioned by UPS. Thu, 27 May 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx Trade Networks has opened three additional offices in its Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. This is the latest step in the company's ongoing global expansion plan. Wed, 26 May 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Direct mail volumes in the banking and investment industries grew markedly during the first quarter of this year, suggesting such sectors are looking to boost their marketing outreach as the economy recovers. Wed, 26 May 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm After five months of negotiations, the Israel Postal Company has been accepted as a non-full member in Visa Europe, and has been authorized by Visa Europe to issue Visa cards. Tue, 25 May 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In a strategic organizational shift designed to achieve long-term business objectives, PMG Potter announced last week realignments within two groups representing key areas of revenue growth for the U.S. Postal Service®. Tue, 25 May 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Italy and Egypt begin work on a Postal Service™ upgrade. The agreement marks the first phase of the reorganization of Egypt's postal service. The initial phase of the project will last seven and a half months. Mon, 24 May 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Looking for signs that the economy is heading in the right direction? Recent financial results from the major players in the global shipping market indicate things are picking up a bit. Mon, 24 May 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm IPC has developed a Web-based tool for exchanges and approval of Terminal Dues accounting information. The Web-based tool, iPep, is used for exchanging and approving letter mail accounting information. Fri, 14 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm On May 17, the Postal Service® will issue a monarch butterfly stamp, the first butterfly stamp design that will be issued for use on large-size greeting cards. Fri, 14 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS and P and T Express have established UPS Vietnam as a joint stock company to expand UPS's footprint and better serve customers in Vietnam. Thu, 13 May 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postage discounts for major mailers are illegal and “self-defeating,” APWU President William Burrus told lawmakers yesterday. They “deprive the USPS® of revenue that is essential to maintain the nation’s mail network.” Thu, 13 May 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Sri Lanka Minister of Posts Jeewan Kumaratunga says that all the post offices in the country will be networked and equipped with modern facilities in order to provide a better service to the people. Wed, 12 May 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® released its 2009 annual report on sustainability performance in which Postmaster General John E. Potter credited postal employees for the agency’s environmental achievements. Wed, 12 May 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Portugese postal operator CTT has revealed its new green strategy and investment plans ahead of full liberalization of the Portugese postal market in seven months time. Tue, 11 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Commission members will gather information at the seven meetings, then present their findings to Congress in October. The commission isn’t taking a position on how to solve the Postal Service’s budget problems. Tue, 11 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Zumbox, Inc. announces the availability of its Zumbox paperless postal platform, as a locally deployable, carrier grade white label software offering for license by postal authorities and commercial entities internationally. Mon, 10 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The way Postmaster General John E. Potter sees it, he has less than six months to convince Congress and the nation of the urgent need to retool the U.S. Postal Service® for the 21st century. Mon, 10 May 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx and Chunghwa Post, Taiwan's official postal service, announced their commercial alliance yesterday on FedEx International Priority service, which will extend to 1,000 Chunghwa Post outlets starting July. Fri, 7 May 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Signs of the Times national small business survey reports that small business owners are eager to lead the charge out of the country's protracted recession. This is a marked improvement over the survey's findings last year. Fri, 7 May 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Hybrid mail service Blue Mail Central saw a 35 percent increase in business when European flights ceased to operate as a result of the volcanic ash cloud from Iceland. Thu, 6 May 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service®, which has said it may lose $7 billion this year, narrowed its fiscal second quarter loss to $1.6 billion. Mail volume dropped 6.3 percent in the past six months. Thu, 6 May 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Haiti is partially resuming international mail services for the first time since the January earthquake ravaged much of the country’s national institutions, with support from the United Nations postal union. Wed, 5 May 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm PRC Chair Ruth Goldway told attendees of the IDEAlliance Print Distribution conference that the Postal Service’s proclamation that it will lose $238 billion is an “unsubstantiated figure with no connection to reality.” Wed, 5 May 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm With a SuisseID from Swiss Post, customers can present electronic proof of identity and make legally binding signatures on documents such as contracts and licenses, just as with a traditional signature. Tue, 4 May 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The nation’s largest annual food drive to Stamp Out Hunger will be conducted Sat, May 8. On that day, U.S. Postal Service® letter carriers will collect non-perishable donations from homes as they deliver mail along their routes. Tue, 4 May 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT sees a modest improvement in the economy for 2010. Express volumes, revenues, and results are expected to be well above 2009 levels. Mon, 3 May 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm If FedEx and UPS are so much more efficient than the U.S. Postal Service®, how did the USPS® manage to beat its private rivals for an exclusive deal with the nation’s toughest customer? Mon, 3 May 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post Corporation tabled its 2009 annual report today in Parliament, reporting a profit for the 15th consecutive year. The Corporation met or exceeded Delivery Service Performance targets. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC is inviting public comments on a Postal Service™ proposal to end carrier street address delivery, collection at blue collection boxes, and incoming mail processing on Saturdays in the United States. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 8:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post is taking over MCM Direct Limited, a local mailing services provider. This move will make it a direct provider of cross-border letter mail and press dispatch services from and to the United Kingdom. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm With the reopening of international airports across Europe, full service for international mail has resumed, and the temporary restriction imposed by the U.S. Postal Service® since April 21 has been lifted. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail warmly welcomed the vote by members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) in favor of the recent agreement with the union leadership, Business Transformation 2010 and Beyond. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Thirteen companies were recognized by the U.S. Postal Service® for superior supply chain performance and delivering best-value solutions that reduce costs, enhance performance, maintain high levels of service. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Portugese population had been largely unaffected by strike action after postal workers began what is expected to be five days of industrial action in protest against a reduction in their salaries. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service® will meet in open session May 6 at Postal Service™ headquarters. The public is welcome to observe the meeting beginning at 8:30 a.m. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Czech Post reports that since it introduced an electronic mail system (the 'Data Box') in Czechoslovakia less than six months ago, users have already sent some 10 million data messages. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Sen. Tom Corburn (R-OK), a frequent critic of the US Postal Service®, emerged as an unlikely champion of the agency's 10-year plan to revise its business model at an April 22 Senate subcommittee hearing. Mon, 26 Apr 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UK direct mail service company 'PostForce' is offering free mailing on large letters. The offer is open to anyone sending 500 or more large letters at a time. Fri, 23 Apr 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm PMG John E. Potter told a Senate subcommittee yesterday that legislative change is still needed to put the Postal Service® back on the path to financial stability. Fri, 23 Apr 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® is using all available airlift, rerouting mail through alternate airports, and booking available ground transportation to move international mail in response to the ongoing closure of airports throughout Europe. Thu, 22 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm On the eve of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, the U.S. Postal Service® unveiled its green newsroom, a one-stop shop for all its environmental information. Thu, 22 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan's government has unveiled details of its plan to reform the nation's postal system, by choosing the radical option of expanding its offering of financial services. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Federal Register final rule on the upcoming 2010 Standard Mail® Incentive Program (aka 2010 Summer Sale) is now on Postal Explorer®. Invitation letters will automatically be sent to eligible customers by May 1, 2010. Wed, 21 Apr 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Itella's mail delivery trial to test alternative future mail delivery methods started last week. The objective is for the trial to be in full swing within two weeks and end at the close of 2010. Tue, 20 Apr 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm What is the most important service factor for the Postal Service® to maintain? If you have an opinion, cast your vote here! Tue, 20 Apr 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Universial Postal Union (UPU) has a new website! Read the latest news and surf through the new website. Mon, 19 Apr 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Hallmark announces the company’s first postage-paid product, Postage-Paid Postcards. The postcards were developed with the USPS® and use a new barcode technology that eliminates the need for consumers to apply a stamp. Mon, 19 Apr 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Deutsche Post mail customers continue to enjoy a significant savings compared to other countries. This was again the case in the most recent annual edition of European letter price comparisons. Fri, 16 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm As Postmaster General John E. Potter met with lawmakers Thursday to discuss his plans for restructuring the U.S. Postal Service®, he acknowledged that the mail agency could further reduce its workforce. Fri, 16 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm As the World Trade Organization (WTO) forecasts a global trade growth of 9.5 percent in 2010, DHL Express announces a further expansion of its import services on a worldwide basis. Thu, 15 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Speaking this week at National Postal Forum in Nashville, Vice President of Expedited Shipping Gary Reblin told mailers the Postal Service® is in the shipping business and that shipping is key to its future. Thu, 15 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Australia Post has lodged a formal submission with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to increase the basic postage rate by five cents starting June 28, 2010. Wed, 14 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Attendees at the National Postal Forum learned firsthand about the effectiveness of the Postal Service's Intelligent Mail® Barcode system this week, as it was being promoted as a great way to communicate with customers. Wed, 14 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postal deliveries in Australia could be scrapped and residents forced to collect mail from automated community post boxes under a new system. Tue, 13 Apr 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General John E. Potter gives a keynote address at the 2010 National Postal Forum in Nashville, TN. The NPF runs through tomorrow, April 14. Tue, 13 Apr 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Norway Post is implementing a new organizational structure to ensure realization of operational synergies and positioning for Nordic growth. The new structure will be fully operational before the summer. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service’s new business model, five day delivery, and other hot issues facing the mailing industry (along with the experts to address them) await attendees at this year’s National Postal Forum live today. Mon, 12 Apr 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT, the Dutch mail and express delivery company, says it will spin off its mail operations in preparation for a possible partnership or listing of the business. Fri, 9 Apr 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Veterans will be able to safely dispose of expired and unused prescriptions and help the environment at the same time under a program offered by the U.S. Postal Service® and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Fri, 9 Apr 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UK Mail Group’s fourth quarter saw solid progress, with Group revenues for the period increasing by some 2% year on year, leading to Group revenues for the full financial year being in line with the previous year. Thu, 8 Apr 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm DMA continues to be your advocate and is addressing issues that touch your business every day. This week, two issues are of extreme importance: Colorado House Bill 1193 and PRC Approves Summer Sale. Thu, 8 Apr 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A union representing 2,000 Canada Post employees says it will fight the Crown corporation's plan to privatize parts of its operations. The plan would eliminate more than 300 jobs across the country. Wed, 7 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Officials with the U.S. Postal Service® are asking members of the public how they would feel if Saturday mail was canceled. Members of the public are invited to share their views on the commission website at www.prc.gov. Wed, 7 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Door-to-door postal services on the nation's urban fringe face extinction as Australia Post prepares to roll out fully-automated community mail centers. Tue, 6 Apr 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm May will be a good month: There will be no First-Class postage increase this year! A once-ounce letter will still cost 44 cents, with additional ounces costing 17 cents. Postal cards are still priced at 28 cents. Tue, 6 Apr 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The final selection for a successor for Adam Crozier, chief executive at Royal Mail, is underway. Royal Mail is about to step up its plans for survival with its new, unnamed, successor. Mon, 5 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm In this C-SPAN video, Ruth Goldway talks about how the U.S. Postal Service® is adjusting to the modern era of communication and shrinking volume of letters... and its proposal to pare mail service to five days a week. Mon, 5 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post is planning to outsource call center jobs in a move that will impact about 300 employees across the country. The cuts are expected to begin by the first quarter of 2011. Fri, 2 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Read about all the key elements of the USPS’s five-day delivery request filed with the PRC earlier this week. The site is separated into sections for business mailers and households, and features answers to FAQs. Fri, 2 Apr 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Itella, formerly Finland Post, will begin an entirely new postal service experiment, which involves opening the customers’ letters. The letters will then be scanned and emailed to the receiver. Thu, 1 Apr 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm As the U.S. Postal Service® proposes to trim its weekly mail service to five days, the deputy postmaster general addresses employee morale. Thu, 1 Apr 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Czech Post has already doubled its investment in new technology and instigated a massive restructuring in its post office network in order to be ready for full liberalization in 2013. Wed, 31 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC today established Docket N2010-1 to thoroughly review whether the U.S. Postal Service® plan to eliminate Saturday delivery should be implemented. Wed, 31 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Today Conservation International (CI) announced a major investment by FedEx Corp. to support environmental projects in China. FedEx will donate US $600,000 to CI to run 10 community conservation projects. Tue, 30 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Cutting Saturday mail deliveries would save the U.S. Postal Service® $3.3 billion in its first year and about $5.1 billion annually by 2020, officials said Monday as they prepared to file their plans with postal regulators. Tue, 30 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm If you do business locally or want to enter a new market area quickly, you don’t want to overlook the value of a saturation mailing within a radius of your business or across a specific ZIP Code™. Mon, 29 Mar 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postcomm’s latest research reveals the majority of people in the UK—ranging from the ordinary householder, to a small business, and all the way to a large corporation—are happy with their postal services. Mon, 29 Mar 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Japanese government will begin the process of privatizing Japan Post. The decision leaves the USPS® alone as having a business model with many characteristics of a government department. Fri, 26 Mar 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Five-day delivery is one of the Postal Service’s best options to significantly reduce its costs to partially offset its unprecedented mail volume and revenue declines, with Saturday being the best day to eliminate carrier delivery. Fri, 26 Mar 2010 9:35:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Russia's Post Service has proposed changing the country's International Post customs to round-the-clock operations to expedite postal deliveries to Russia, following delay complaints by global postal operators. Thu, 25 Mar 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® recently launched a new measurement system designed to better understand customers’ total experience doing business with USPS® at every level of the organization. Thu, 25 Mar 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A strike Tuesday in France is expected to disrupt trains, transport, postal services and schools, as unions aim a new blow at President Nicolas Sarkozy following his party's drubbing in regional elections. Wed, 24 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® Board of Governors today approved management’s request to move forward with its five-day delivery proposal and to file a request for an advisory opinion with the PRC on March 30. Wed, 24 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Greek postal regulator EETT is to hold a Workshop on "Future of the Postal Market: Regulatory Challenges and Tools for Development" on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at 9:30 at the Hotel Divani Caravel. Tue, 23 Mar 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The financial data unveiled along with the FedEx earnings report revealed how closely tied the fortunes of FedEx and UPS are tied to the Postal Service®. FedEx is one of the Postal Service's largest suppliers. Tue, 23 Mar 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Following the establishment of an agreement between the CWU and Royal Mail, CWU leaders are touring the country explaining what the new deal will mean and why workers should vote in favor of the agreement. Mon, 22 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The end of Saturday mail delivery gets closer to reality in the next 10 days, as Postmaster General John E. Potter plans to formally present his proposals to his board of directors and postal regulators. Mon, 22 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Universal Postal Union (UPU), the International Post Corporation (IPC) and PostEurop, a UPU restricted union, have finalized the greenhouse gas emission inventory standard for the postal sector. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service® will meet in open session March 24 at Postal Service™ headquarters, 475 L’Enfant Plaza, SW. The public is welcome to observe the meeting beginning at 8:30 a.m. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm International 3/18/10—Quality of letter mail service in Europe continues to far exceed both the European Union’s speed objective of 85 percent of intra-EU mail delivery within three days, and its reliability objective of 97 percent within five days. Thu, 18 Mar 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm US 3/18/10—According to verifications performed by the U.S. Postal Service® since January 2009, 95 percent of mailings with the Intelligent Mail® barcode (IMb) are quality, readable barcodes. Thu, 18 Mar 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Technopost Africa, opening today in Tunis, will focus on the role of modern technology in building more modern, prosperous Posts for Africa. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC is seeking actuarial expertise to evaluate the postal service’s liability for some of its employee’s civil service pensions. The USPS® is seeking the PRC’s opinion under the postal reform act passed in 2006. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Of the 15 most important countries compared, Swiss Post ranks fifth in terms of counter prices for letters. It is the second least expensive parcel service provider in Europe. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is searching for a business model that will stop a downward spiral in revenue as Americans move their mail and bill-paying to the Internet. Tue, 16 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postal experts from Canada, France, Senegal, and the United States will travel to Port-au-Prince in early April to help Haiti jumpstart its postal services, paralyzed since the January earthquake. Mon, 15 Mar 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The USPS® filed a request with the PRC last Friday to change the designation of some Post Office™ Boxes from monopoly to competitive designation—a move to allow greater flexibility to meet the needs of customers. Mon, 15 Mar 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm State-owned Hungarian postal company Magyar Posta plans to begin offering some of its services in other central and eastern European countries by January 1, 2013. Fri, 12 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Direct Marketing Association (DMA) and the American Catalog Mailers Association (ACMA) have come to an understanding of their common goals in protecting the catalog segment from legislative and regulatory threats. Fri, 12 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT Express announces the worldwide launch of its new Express Import system which gives customers complete control over their import shipments. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 8:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm With more than 7 billion pieces of mail processed and $2 billion in revenue generated for the U.S. Postal Service®, the Intelligent Mail® Full Service program has been a success story for business mailers, too. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 8:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The CWU has reached a deal with Royal Mail which brings a pay rise in excess of 6.9 percent over the next three years, reduces the working week, and brings greater job security to postal workers while delivering business transformation. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Here are seven misconceptions about the Postal Service’s long-range action plan gleaned from news accounts, conversations, and the Postal Service’s own presentation. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail today welcomed the agreement reached with the Communication Workers Union on business transformation which paves the way for a strong and successful future for Royal Mail and its people. Tue, 9 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm PMG John Potter announces the appointment of Janet Klug to serve on the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC). Klug will join the committee in April. Tue, 9 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Businesses can now send physical mail direct from their computer to addresses across the UK for less than the cost of a second class stamp following the launch of an economy service from imail. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Today, the USPS® and the USPIS® join with federal, state, and local government agencies and consumer protection organizations to announce the 12th annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 7-13. Mon, 8 Mar 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is expanding its date-certain, guaranteed Express Mail® International (EMI) to France through Le Groupe La Poste, and Singapore through Singapore Post. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® did something for the first time last year, and it was so successful, they’re planning to do it again: launch a summer sale. The 2010 Summer Sale is scheduled to run July 1 through Sept. 30. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 9:25:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) has signed a joint declaration with Egyptian National Postal Organization (ENPO), officially establishing the bilateral partnership in the field of postal services. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Instead of agreeing to a cut in Saturday service, Congress and the PRC are more likely to free the agency from a government-mandated requirement—a significant cost-cutting measure. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm DHL, UPS, FedEx, and TNT, the largest express deliverers around the globe, will be able to enjoy a mechanism for regular communications with the Chinese government. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is at a tipping point due to the combined effects of the economic recession, increased use of electronic communications, and its obligations to prepay Retiree Health Benefits. Wed, 3 Mar 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm French postal operator La Poste, officially became a limited liability company on March 1. The change of status was approved by the French parliament in January - despite opposition by French unions. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General John E. Potter today outlined an aggressive plan of cost cutting, increased productivity, and an array of legislative and regulatory changes necessary to maintain a viable USPS®. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail’s First Class quality of service performance fell below target in the autumn of 2009-2010, a period marked by repeated national industrial action. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® finances marked steady improvement on a month-by-month basis in its first fiscal quarter. These improvements allowed it to earn a small operating profit in Dec. and a smaller-than-forecast loss for the quarter. Mon, 1 Mar 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm New Zealand Post Group has recorded a net profit after a difficult half year that ended Dec. 31, 2009. The current period's net profit was an acceptable result given the significant impacts of the global economic downturn and increasing competition Fri, 26 Feb 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is installing Flats Sequencing System machines at a rapid pace, but is still overhauling the schedule for future installations. Fri, 26 Feb 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Post Danmark reported an operating profit of DKK 136 million in 2009, down from DKK 817 million the year before. The lower profit is due to general economic decline and a decline in volume of letters and parcels. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® is expanding its partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce to support the newly established National Export Initiative (NEI). Thu, 25 Feb 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Bhutan Post has developed numerous postcodes with help from the universal postal union (UPU) after finally settling on a five digit numeric postcode, based on the country’s administrative division. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postmaster General Potter will host a conference to address the future of the U.S. Postal Service® and to announce new business model on March 2, from 9am-12pm in Washington D.C. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 9:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post says it will eliminate 100 jobs around the country before the end of the year. The cuts will come in the express and courier divisions where 260 people are currently employed in eight cantons. Tue, 23 Feb 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Jan./Feb. MailPro is now available. You’ll find informative articles on the transition of bulk mail centers (BMC), to network distribution centers (NDC), return addressing, streamlined postage statements, and more. Tue, 23 Feb 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm According to Austrian Post, four strategic cornerstones provide a clear orientation for further development of Austrian Post. Austrian Post also wants to exploit future growth opportunities. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® released final “droop” regulations this week that give small newspapers a break, but are otherwise full of problems for mailers of catalogs, magazines, and other flat mail. Mon, 22 Feb 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Despite a fall in revenue as a result of the financial crisis and economic slump, Norway Post significantly increased its earnings in 2009. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Under its revised plan to cut mail delivery to five days a week, the US Postal Service® would eliminate delivery to street addresses and some processing on Saturday, but it would not close post offices. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS Freight has stretched its two-day delivery network from Montreal and Toronto as far south as Atlanta and St. Louis. This continues a 2009 initiative that reduced nearly 1,000 transit times between Canadian points and the US. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® says local mail delivery is 90 percent back to normal after this month's back-to-back snowstorms in the Washington D.C. area. The twin storms made many area streets inaccessible. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Pan African Postal Union has successfully wrapped up its 30th anniversary celebrations, attracting a record number of postal-sector ministers and top policy-makers from international and regional organizations. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm If you have not yet attended a Plant Verified Drop Shipment (PVDS) webinar, the DMM Advisory is offering the chance to take part in one this Friday, Feb. 19, beginning at 12:30 p.m. (EST). Wed, 17 Feb 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The government of Japan is making final arrangements to abolish the 10 million yen limit on the amount of postal savings that can be held by each depositor through a postal reform bill. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Public Representative performed a service for postal stakeholders in their estimates of the required rate increases to return the Postal Service to break even by 2011. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A new global initiative has been created to connect representatives of the postal and express shipping organizations with experts in the field of automatic identification from around the world. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The ailing U.S. Postal Service® will experience a net loss in fiscal 2011 similar to that of 2010, according to agency estimates in President Obama's budget. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm For the first time in Brazil, post offices will join efforts to prevent new HIV infections. The local take on the global campaign “Post Offices Fighting Against AIDS”, was launched earlier this week in Brasilia. Fri, 12 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Valassis, one of the nation’s leading media and marketing services companies and a partner with USPS® in the “Have You Seen Me” program to recover missing children, says shoppers saved nearly $3.5 billion with coupons last year. Fri, 12 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Despite an unfavorable economic climate, Croatian Post saw the end of a long period of operating with a financial loss, finally seeing in 2009, an operating profit of 169 million HRK from its core business. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® says it will resume service to most of the D.C. area today. Ten percent of people in the D.C. area haven't received mail since the weekend. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has appointed Royal Mail to develop an integrated Dialogue Mail campaign to promote the use of the Government’s electronic services for renewing car tax. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® ended the first quarter of this fiscal year (Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2009) with a net loss of $297 million, while posting continued high scores in quarterly delivery performance. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Portuguese postal company CTT-Correios de Portugal is due to start operating in Mozambique before the end of the first half of this year. CTT plans to invest some 2 million euros in its internationalization. Tue, 9 Feb 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The public meeting of the Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service® scheduled for Feb. 9, 2010 has been canceled, due to transportation issues related to severe winter weather in the Washington, DC, area. Tue, 9 Feb 2010 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT is expanding its e-commerce activities with the acquisition of e-fulfillment specialist TopPak, effect today. With this acquisition TNT is strengthening its position as market leader through its Parcel Service business. Mon, 8 Feb 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm This April, more than 4,000 mailing industry professionals will attend the National Postal Forum (NPF) and gain cutting-edge strategies and techniques for helping their organizations thrive in today’s marketplace. Mon, 8 Feb 2010 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm DHL has announced its new joint venture in Bangladesh and that it will invest $10 million over the next few years to enhance its logistics capabilities in the country. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm President Obama’s fiscal 2011 budget proposal requires the continuation of six-day delivery by the Postal Service®. The administration will work with postal unions to keep the Postal Service strong for years to come. Fri, 5 Feb 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Swiss Post International Group unit is acquiring two long-term sales partners based in Madrid. This latest acquisition demonstrates Swiss Post International's commitment to pursuing its growth strategy. Thu, 4 Feb 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service® will meet Feb. 9 at Postal Service headquarters. The public is welcome to observe the Board’s open session, scheduled to begin at 1:30pm. Thu, 4 Feb 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail revealed that mailings delivered under its Sustainable Mail™ service have reached the 100 million mark nine months after its launch. To qualify for the Sustainable Mail product, mailers must meet certain specification criteria. Wed, 3 Feb 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service’s Initial Management Inquiry Process (IMIP) is a six-step process that helps managers resolve harassment problems and ensure employees have a harassment-free work environment. Wed, 3 Feb 2010 9:20:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The United States is urging Japan not to discriminate against U.S. competitors in areas of insurance, banking, and express delivery services, as Tokyo re-examines the future of its giant postal system. Tue, 2 Feb 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm When UPS partnered with the Postal Service® to offer Parcel Return Service (PRS), it recognized the strength of the USPS® network and the efficient service it provides to every address, every day. Tue, 2 Feb 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The CEO of Lithuania Post has presented a plan to provide a 10 percent increase in pay for its postal workers. The pay increase is effective July 1, 2010. Mon, 1 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® has filed an update with the PRC indicating that 162 offices remain under review for possible consolidation under the station and branch consolidation initiative. Mon, 1 Feb 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm After two years time and three court proceedings, the Federal Administrative Court in Leipzig, Germany, has ruled that the ordinance on the postal minimum wage of EUR 9.80 is null and void. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm More than six months ago, published reports warned about a problem with Intelligent Mail® barcodes. Today, the Postal Service® is addressing and correcting the problem. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Austrian Post has presented the Post.Partner Concept 2010, the first cornerstone of its drive to improve customer service. Austrian Post is offering all municipalities the chance to establish a postal service point. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Because a viable postal sector is critical to any nation’s economic stability, U.S. Postal Inspectors are being sent to Haiti to help prepare for the restoration of mail service to the earthquake-ravaged country. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The European Commission has closed its investigation into a special government guarantee to France's postal company, La Poste, because a new law will put an end to it. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® is proposing to revise Mailing Standards of the USPS® Domestic Mail Manual to reflect changes in the processing of hard-copy postage statements. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail announces the creation of a new Strategic Mailing Partnership™ to drive developments and shape the future of the mailing house industry. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A report showing the USPS® overpaid its CSRS obligation by $75 billion has been released. If the federal government righted this payment, these funds could potentially save the Postal Service® from fiscal insolvency. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 8:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm An agreement concerning the future organization of postal deliveries in Belgium was concluded within the Joint consultative committee last week. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Chinese Post Office currently has 20 executives touring the US, trying to figure out how to grow direct mail industry here. They are interested in the US direct mail industry, because it is one of the most vibrant industries in the world. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The UPU International Bureau has set up a task force to bring together postal experts from across the globe to coordinate efforts directed at helping the Post of Haiti, severely crippled by last week’s earthquake. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Parcel Magazine releases rate analysis for the top three shipping companies: U.S. Postal Service®, USS, Fed Ex. No matter which carrier you are using, you’ll need clear visibility into your package distribution pattern. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm TNT has signed an agreement to sell, with immediate effect, its German unaddressed mail business to its current management team. TNT Post Germany will continue to focus on the addressed letter business. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm This report provides an overview of the U.S. Postal Service’s financial condition, recent legislation to alleviate the USPS’s financial challenges, and possible issues for the 111th Congress. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A recent LinkedIn poll conducted on behalf of ONEPOST, reveals 65 percent of companies will increase their use of direct mail this year, particularly as part of an integrated marketing strategy. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A study just released by the U.S. Postal Service’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) shows that the current system of funding the Postal Service’s Civil Service Retirement System pension responsibility is inequitable. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm For the past year, customers of Swiss Post have had the opportunity to send their letters, parcels and goods consignments with the "pro clima" surcharge, to be invested in a climate protection project. Tue, 19 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® salutes the Lunar New Year with a commemorative 12-stamp souvenir sheet. All 40 million 44-cent first-class stamps are available nationwide or online at www.usps.com/store. Tue, 19 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Germany's national postal service Deutsche Post has finalized the details of its new “hybrid mail” service. The combination of e-mail with traditional "snail mail" will be €0.09 cheaper per letter. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® has placed a temporary hold on all mail destined to the nation of Haiti. Mail addressed to Haiti is continuing to be accepted, and will be held until transportation arrangements become available. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The move to turn French postal operator La Poste into a limited liability company was approved by the French parliament this week, despite opposition by French unions. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC has ordered the Postal Service® to terminate two non-postal services and issued guidelines for the sale of licensed CDs and DVDs by the Postal Service®. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post’s new rate for domestic basic Lettermail™ took effect Jan. 11. The new stamp rates were outlined in the rate plan publicly proposed last June. The Government of Canada approved the plan in Oct. 2009. Thu, 14 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm It took seven months to hit the 1 billion mark, but only four more weeks to hit 3 billion. That’s the number of Intelligent Mail® Full Service mail pieces processed by the USPS® since the program’s implementation last May. Thu, 14 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Royal Mail announces Alan Cook, Managing Director of Post Office Ltd, will retire in May after more than four years at the helm of the company. Wed, 13 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® consolidation is coming in several forms. Besides the operational changes at the processing plants, retail stations and branches are being examined. Wed, 13 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan’s top logistics provider, Yamato Transport, has arrived on Singapore's doorstep and could pose a challenge to market leader SingPost for half of the domestic-delivery pie. Tue, 12 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm If it had implemented a five-day-per-week delivery schedule years ago, the U.S. Postal Service® would have saved more than $2 billion during the its 2008 fiscal year. Tue, 12 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Norway’s post offices are to be modernized so that they meet customer needs now and in the future. The transition to electronic mail and banking services is the main reason for the change. Mon, 11 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® proposes to revise Mailing Standards of the USPS®, DMM® to clarify that a proposed new standard to allow for the mailing of replica or inert explosive devices be sent by Registered Mail™ only. Mon, 11 Jan 2010 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Postal deliveries in Northern England and Scotland are being disrupted due to the weather. Much of the South has yet to see further snow, but many roads remain icy and treacherous. Fri, 08 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS plans to cut 1,800 jobs, saying profits exceeded their forecast. The cuts underscore UPS’s efforts to defend market share which generates about two-thirds of revenue and has posted declining volume for seven straight quarters. Fri, 08 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm De Post-La Poste, Belgium's national postal operator acquired a majority stake in MSI Worldwide Mail, a U.S.-based mail and parcel delivery company. The company will continue to operate as MSI Worldwide Mail. Thu, 07 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The US Postal Service® ended the calendar year with 599,655 career employees, a drop of 57,118, or 8.7% from the same period last year. Thu, 07 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Britain's Home Delivery Network said it would buy DHL's UK parcel delivery operations, DHL Domestic, from Deutsche Post DHL, growing its market share in a sector profiting from a boom in online shopping. Wed, 06 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The PRC has asked the Postal Service® and others parties to comment on whether the Annual Compliance Report shows that postal rates and fees comply with the pricing requirements and objectives. Wed, 06 Jan 2010 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm State-owned Hungarian postal company Magyar Posta has increased its prices by an average 4.9pc. Magyar Posta's guaranteed delivery services will keep their prices, but packages will be sent for a higher price. Tue, 05 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Apple® Computer’s App Store℠ online store now offers a new free U.S. Postal Service® application for iPhone® and iPod touch® mobile digital devices. Tue, 05 Jan 2010 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm A government draft of new plans to convert the Japan Post group into a three-company system and boost the government's involvement in Japan's postal system has been unveiled. Mon, 04 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm New prices for Priority Mail®; Express Mail®; Global Express Guaranteed; Express Mail International; Priority Mail® International; Parcel Select® and Parcel Return Service, are effective today, Jan. 4, 2010. Mon, 04 Jan 2010 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Nearly all Dutch send their New Years’ greeting by post cards, according to a poll by TNT Post released on Tuesday. The poll shows that 96 percent of the Dutch send their New Year’s wishes by post, rather than online. Wed, 30 Dec 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Move Update assessment charges for automation and presort First-Class Mail® and all Standard Mail® mailings effective January 4, 2010. Here is a background summary and descriptions of the changes and procedures. Wed, 30 Dec 2009 9:05:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Pakistan Post is committed to make secure and timely delivery of mail, money, and material at the doorsteps of the customers at affordable cost. Letter mail is the basic, traditional service of the Pakistan Post. Tue, 29 Dec 2009 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The US Postal Service® posted a net loss of $255 million for the month of November, bringing the fiscal year to date loss to $476 million after the first two months of FY 2010. Tue, 29 Dec 2009 8:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post processed around 15 million packages in the pre-Christmas period. Swiss Post will still be forwarding parcels for those in need to the Swiss Red Cross free of charge until January 9, 2010. Mon, 28 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Although we often take it for granted, the Post Office™ is a government agency that works. For 44 cents, you can send a letter anywhere in the continental U.S. within three business days. Mon, 28 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Canada Post letter carriers at a downtown station say they've been Scrooged out of their Christmas cheer. Decorations in the workplace are being deemed a health and safety hazard. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® says it will lose more than $3 billion this year and $8 billion next year. Can anything be done to save it? Bill Radke gets the views of LA Times business columnist David Lazarus. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The "London 2010: Festival of Stamps" kicks off in January 2010, and is a year long festival of exhibitions and events celebrating stamps, their design, and postal heritage. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The demise of direct mail has been predicted for a decade now. But as individual sectors of the economy are beginning to emerge from recession, advertising trends show that direct mail is far from obsolete. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Swiss Post and the trade unions Kommunikation, Transfair, and Comedia, have agreed on a collective employment contract (CEC) for the early delivery of newspapers. The CEC will begin on March 1 2010. Mon, 21 Dec 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The U.S. Postal Service® would become the guinea pig for testing 20,000 electric vehicles under House legislation introduced Dec. 17. If approved, the bill would help the Postal Service green its large mail delivery fleet. Mon, 21 Dec 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Fair Work Australia has ruled in favor of Australia Post and ordered planned strike action by the postal union to be stopped. Mail and parcel delivery is returning to normal. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Customers searching for reliable overnight delivery of holiday gifts can look to Express Mail® from the USPS® to get it under the tree in time. The last recommended day for mailing holiday gifts by Express Mail® is Dec. 23. Fri, 18 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The European Commission has endorsed a Polish scheme intended to compensate the Polish Post for net losses incurred in discharging its public service obligations between 2006 and 2011. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm President Barack Obama has appointed Postal Service™ Board of Governors member Alan C. Kessler of Philadelphia to a second term that will expire Dec. 8, 2015. Thu, 17 Dec 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Board of Directors of Swiss Post have appointed Jürg Bucher as the new Chief Executive Officer of Swiss Post with immediate effect. He succeeds Michel Kunz, who is leaving Swiss Post by mutual consent. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Post Offices will be open on Christmas Eve, December 24, and New Year’s Eve, December 31; however, many will shorten retail lobby hours and close at 12:00 noon. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 9:15:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Despite numerous promises to the contrary, the CEPU is still holding strike action over the heads of the Australian public in the lead up to Christmas. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Purolator USA, a Canada Post subsidiary, is slowly expanding its domestic United States business as a complement to its cross-border business. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The UPU is the first United Nations agency to obtain a piece of real-estate space on the Internet for the global industry it represents. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Today marks the Postal Service’s busiest mailing day of the year with more than 830 million pieces of mail entering the system. This represents an increase of more than 40 percent in the average daily volume of 583 million pieces of mail. Mon, 14 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The postal industry today became the first services sector to set a global emissions target for the industry. 20 postal operators will work together to collectively reduce their carbon emissions by 20 percent by 2020, based on 2008 levels Fri, 11 Dec 2009 7:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm One hundred and nine commercial mailers can’t be wrong. That’s the number of mostly high-volume mailers who helped the U.S. Postal Service® deliver one billion pieces of mail using Full Service Intelligent Mail®. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 7:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The CEPU must declare what impact industrial action will have on the public's Christmas mail after serving industrial notices on Australia Post declaring a Christmas strike. Thu, 10 Dec 2009 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Arriving just in time for the holidays, the U.S. Postal Service® has added a special Priority Mail Flat Rate Gift Envelope to its lineup of flat-rate mailing products. Thu, 10 Dec 2009 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The former banker ousted as head of Japan's postal-services group is striking back at the new government, blasting plans to halt privatization of the agency, which doubles as the world's largest savings bank. Wed, 9 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Calling it “absolutely the wrong way” to pay for healthcare reform, APWU President William Burrus was among leaders of federal and postal unions objecting to the Senate bill’s proposed excise tax on many insurance plans. Wed, 9 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The annual earning of Pakistan Postal Service (PPS) has shown an unprecedented rise of around 25 percent in its yearly revenue earning for 2008-09, swelling total income to Rs 7.7 billion. Tue, 8 Dec 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx Corp. said its fiscal second- quarter profit exceeded its forecast as international and ground shipments rose, bolstering economists’ assessments that a global recovery is under way. Tue, 8 Dec 2009 8:45:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Japan passed a law Friday to halt the privatization of the country's postal service, holder of $3.446 trillion in Japanese investments and household wealth. Mon, 7 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm This holiday season the U.S. Postal Service® is reminding customers to take the hustle and bustle out of holiday shipping by using the online Post Office™. Mon, 7 Dec 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The head of the UN agency urges the worldwide postal sector to act to reduce emissions and grow the business at the same time. Fri, 4 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm FedEx Corp. will raise shipping rates for its Ground and Home Delivery units by an average of 4.9 percent in 2010 — 1 percent lower than the hike this year. All of the rate increases will go into effect on Jan. 4. Fri, 4 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The UK Government is promoting new financial products and services that could be offered via the Post Office, ranging from a business account to children's savings. Thu, 3 Dec 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Postal Service® has a goal to cut petroleum usage by 2 percent annually through 2015, compared with a 2005 baseline. Yet petroleum consumption increased 4 percent between 2005 and 2008. Thu, 3 Dec 2009 8:55:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The International Post Corporation has released its 2009 report on the state of the global postal industry. The IPC Global Postal Industry Report is the most comprehensive report of its kind. Wed, 2 Dec 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm What do the U.S. Postal Service®, the Muppets, and Santa Claus have in common? Neither rain nor snow nor heat nor gloom of night will keep them from delivering dreams this holiday season. Wed, 2 Dec 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm On World AIDS Day, the HIV-prevention campaigns launched so far in the Post Offices of six countries continue to raise awareness of the deadly virus. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The following Postal Service® report, “Assessment of the U.S. Postal Service® Future Business Model,” represents just one aspect of that consultation process, and serves as a starting point for an ongoing discussion. Tue, 1 Dec 2009 9:00:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The CWU may call for more strikes before Christmas, despite an interim agreement to establish a period of calm. Postal workers are concerned further strikes will alienate them from the general public. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm USPS® aims to protect privacy of needy Letters to Santa writers, after an incident last year in which a registered sex offender obtained the address of a child. Charities scramble to adjust. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 9:50:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm The Swiss are very satisfied with Swiss Post's letter delivery service, according to a survey of 15,000 customers carried out by Swiss Post. Scoring 92 out of a possible 100, the overall delivery performed very well. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Ruth Goldway, PRC Chairman, talks about the future of the U.S. Postal Service® in this C-Span video, as it considers cutting service days. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 9:30:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Russia's state postal operator Pochta Rossii plans to cut 33,000 personnel down in 2010 as part of a campaign aimed at streamlining company management. The postal operator currently employs 415,000 people. Tue, 24 Nov 2009 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Every year, some tax-refund checks mailed out by the government are returned by the U.S. Postal Service® due to what the IRS refers to as "mailing address errors." Tue, 24 Nov 2009 9:40:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm Ceska Posta, the Czech Republic postal service, has just launched a new international parcel service. EPG is a new express service offering a favorably priced solution to Czech customers needing to mail parcels abroad. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 9:10:00 PDT http://www.melissadata.com/whatsnew/index.htm UPS has issued its 2010 rate change information. Visit the UPS Web site starting December 18, 2009 to download the 2010 UPS Rate and Service Guide. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 9:10:00 PDT 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.