Postal network performance in CEE
The first issue of the "CEE Postal Snapshot" explores the networks of twelve Central- and Easterneuropean postal incumbents and analyzes the various methods used to improve their efficiency in order to be more competitive in the future. In light of the upcoming market liberalization postal incumbents try to optimize their networks to reach higher efficiencies.
One measure that incumbent providers have been taking to improve their efficiency is to streamline and optimize their office networks through closing down several post office locations. The first locations incumbents tend to consider for closure are offices in remote, rural areas that are generally unprofitable. However, as a result of the universal services obligation the incumbent needs to ensure the continuous provision of postal services in those areas. Due to this in many cases incumbents contract entities – such as individuals, small grocery stores, local authorities – to act as postal partners in order to ensure the provision of universal services.
Nevertheless, not all incumbents are utilizing these methods to ensure their competitiveness. Some other nations are planning to strengthen their position through measures such as restructuring and transforming their incumbents from state-owned companies into privately held or joint stock companies. Additionally, incumbents build comparative advantage through improving their mail-sorting centers or electronic post centers. Almost all universal services providers in the region have realized the need to invest into their infrastructure.
One measure that incumbent providers have been taking to improve their efficiency is to streamline and optimize their office networks through closing down several post office locations. The first locations incumbents tend to consider for closure are offices in remote, rural areas that are generally unprofitable. However, as a result of the universal services obligation the incumbent needs to ensure the continuous provision of postal services in those areas. Due to this in many cases incumbents contract entities – such as individuals, small grocery stores, local authorities – to act as postal partners in order to ensure the provision of universal services.
Nevertheless, not all incumbents are utilizing these methods to ensure their competitiveness. Some other nations are planning to strengthen their position through measures such as restructuring and transforming their incumbents from state-owned companies into privately held or joint stock companies. Additionally, incumbents build comparative advantage through improving their mail-sorting centers or electronic post centers. Almost all universal services providers in the region have realized the need to invest into their infrastructure.
