Next Directory does email blast to customers vowing 'no postal strike affects'

by Noelle McElhatton, marketingdirectmag.co.uk 29-Oct-09, 07:00

LONDON - High street and catalogue retailer Next yesterday sent current and lapsed customers an email promising that its deliveries are not affected by the postal strike.

The email was sent yesterday afternoon as there was no sign of a breakthrough in the negotiations to avert today's postal strike by Communication Workers Union members.

Next will make its deliveries using local couriers Hernes but has to refer to Royal Mail's mailing system if Hernes does not have couriers covering certain areas.

The major e-commerce sites all have similar statements outlining alternative delivery services or advising of Royal Mail delays.

John Lewis states on its home page that it has made "alternative arrangements to make sure customer deliveries are not affected by forthcoming CWU industrial action".

Amazon tells users that Express Delivery orders are unaffected, and that it has arranged to double available capacity to accommodate customers who choose this option.

However Ebay and Lovefilm are maintaining a commitment to Royal Mail, though Ebay has agreed pricing deals with alternative suppliers for customers who want definite delivery times.

"We've met with Royal Mail where we sought assurances post will continue to be delivered in the event of the industrial action," eBay's UK site states. "Royal Mail is committed to delivering all of the mail which is entrusted to it, but have indicated delays are inevitable."