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Postal strikes could cost small businesses up to £5,000

National postal strikes could cost small businesses in the region anywhere between £500 and £5,000, a poll by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has shown.

In a survey of over 1,200 small businesses, nearly half (46%) estimate the postal strikes could cost them between £500 and £5,000. In the run up to Christmas, one of the most crucial times of year for a small business owner, four out of ten said that they could lose trade (42%) and 40% said that their business reputation could be damaged.

Half of small firms are considering leaving Royal Mail but feel they are “held to ransom” because alternative carriers are too expensive and do not meet their needs. The FSB is urging Royal Mail management and the Communications Workers Union to reach an agreement as soon as possible so small firms can get back to business.

Colin Stratton, FSB Regional Chairman for the North East, said: “National postal strikes have a devastating impact on already struggling small businesses. The wildcat strikes across our region have already cost small firms dearly, with many predicting the cost to their business reaching several hundred pounds, but these national strikes are having a much more damaging impact.

“Small firms rely on the Royal Mail to send their business post but they are caught in a classic Catch-22 situation with many considering deserting Royal Mail because the service is unreliable, but at the same time are unable to afford alternative carriers. The FSB is urging both sides to come to an agreement immediately.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .