Mailing Industry News

Periodicals delivery to slow

2011-12-10T10:21:00.000-06:00

USPS Cuts First-Class Mail Delivery"... Delivery time to be extended by two-three days, up to nine for some periodicals...."

Article Reference Source: www.foliomag.com

Ruthless Dismantling of the Postal Service

2011-11-29T09:47:00.001-06:00

Postal system's crisis has many sources, says local postmaster; closing services will not help "... " If jobs can be disposed of so ruthlessly, if communities can be disposed of so cynically, if an institution that helped build the country — and that still helps hold it together — can be disposed of so carelessly, we are all in deep trouble."..."

Article Reference Source: www.mountainx.com

Is Postal Service in violation of privacy laws

2011-10-13T21:29:00.000-05:00

USPS’ selling of addresses a privacy concern? "... provided the addresses of customers to direct-mail marketers, an apparent violation of the federal Privacy Act...."

Article Reference Source: ajc.com

Key direct mail months remain stable (Paradysz)

2011-09-08T20:33:00.001-05:00

Paradysz Releases Latest Study of Seasonal Patterns in Direct Mail Usage "...According to the study, key direct mail months and overall seasonal patterns remain relatively stable for most consumer sectors despite continued economic challenges ..."

Article Reference Source: www.piworld.com

Royal Mail "delivered by" mark irks mailers

2011-07-31T10:46:00.002-05:00

DM industry slams Royal Mail "delivered by" mark plans "... the mark is recognition of the “dedication” and “fantastic job” done by postal workers. It will be introduced in September...."

Article Reference Source: www.marketingweek.co.uk

Quad Graphics refinancing loans

2011-06-29T11:15:00.000-05:00

Quad/Graphics seeks $1.5 billion in loans for refinancing "... JPMorgan Chase & Co. is leading the refinancing transaction, which includes an $800 million revolving credit line and a $400 million term loan A, both due in five years, and a $300 million, seven-year term loan B...."

Article Reference Source: www.jsonline.com

Canada Post negotiations stalled

2011-06-21T10:40:00.000-05:00

Postal negotiations stalled, estimated 15,000 layoffs in mailing industry "...while Canada Post has moved on some issues, the crown corporation "continues to dismiss important health and safety issues, as well as rejecting proposals for innovation and service expansion."..."

Article Reference Source: www.mastheadonline.com

More discounts for mailers

2011-06-15T01:07:00.000-05:00

USPS Formally Announces QR Code Discount, Touts Savings from Contract "...Mobile Barcode Promotion that rewards mailers launching campaigns incorporating two-dimensional, smartphone-friendly barcodes with an upfront 3 percent postage discount on qualifying Standard and First-Class Mail letters, flats or cards. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.piworld.com

Purposeful slowing of direct mail solicitations

2011-06-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

Bill would slow lawyers’ direct mail "...pushing a measure that would require lawyers to wait 30 days before they begin filling victims’ mailboxes with solicitations. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.news-record.com

$42 Million Postal Logistics Contract Awarded

2011-05-26T23:25:00.001-05:00

CSC Wins $42 Million U.S. Postal Service Logistics Contract "...he U.S. Postal Service (USPS) awarded the company a contract to provide management, operational and logistical support for its mail transport repair facility located near Los Angeles, Calif. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.sunherald.com

Direct Mail PURLs

2011-04-16T08:50:00.000-05:00

The Top Five Reasons to Add PURLs to Your Direct Mail Marketing "... Postage rates, paper costs, and printing costs are all increasing. Let’s face it: you need a cost-effective way to drive prospects to your dealership. Rather than throw everything imaginable at your customer, mail a package that is unique with personalization, and know that the chances it will be opened and responded to are higher. Get a better response with less mail!..."

Article Reference Source: dealermarketing.com

direct mail is still the most popular marketing tool for many companies

2011-04-06T19:19:00.000-05:00

Surprise report results - direct mail is still on top "...In a world where online is seen to be king, it was surprising to see that direct mail experienced the largest growth in 2010, according to the results of an annual report by the Advertising Association. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.equimedia.co.uk

Discover credit card firm NSA

2011-04-04T23:04:00.000-05:00

USPS agrees $670m mailing deal with Discover credit card firm "...Credit card company DFS has large, but declining billing and statement volumes, but under the new $670m deal, a big push in its advertising mail ..."

Article Reference Source: postandparcel.info

State of Washington passes bill making mail-in ballots standard

2011-03-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

House passes bill making mail-in ballots standard "... The House voted 52-43 Friday to require Pierce County to join the state's 38 other counties that already conduct elections entirely by mail. The Senate narrowly approved the measure March 4. ..."

Article Reference Source: seattletimes.nwsource.com

March 25 USPS Announcement

2011-03-25T11:31:00.000-05:00

This post is courtesy of The Postal Newsgroup

The highly anticipated March 25 USPS announcement is referenced below as found on the USPS' website. The largest majority of the information was put out yesterday (March 24, 2011) detailing the district closings, the Voluntary Early Retirement (VER), The financial incentive programs being offered to eligible career non-bargaining employees in targeted groups at Headquarters, Headquarters-related Field Units, Area Offices and Customer Service District Offices (Administrative). However, the additional information provided in the following announcement that stands out boldly is 'additional staff reductions will occur as the Postal Service makes necessary changes to its network and retail operations. The full scope and financial impact of these personnel actions should be realized in one calendar year — by March 2012.' Read below to see the official release. Stay tuned and we will provide further internal information as it trickles out.

March 25 Postal Announcement

The Announcement
PMG ANNOUNCES CLOSING OF SEVEN DISTRICTS
I am confident we have developed a strong plan that takes a key step toward a leaner and less bureaucratic structure.

As part of the ongoing redesign of the Postal Service, PMG Pat Donahoe yesterday announced USPS will close 7 of its 74 district offices. This reflects continuing alignments within the organization to achieve core business strategies and, when fully implemented, will help realize approximately $750 million of annual cost savings (Link Extra, 3/23).

The district offices scheduled for closure — Columbus, OH, (Eastern Area); Southeast Michigan in Troy, MI, and Northern Illinois in Carol Stream, IL (Great Lakes Area); Southeast New England in Providence, RI (Northeast Area); South Georgia in Macon, GA, and Albuquerque in Albuquerque, NM (Southwest Area); and Big Sky in Billings, MT (Western Area) — house only administrative functions that will be assumed by surrounding district offices. The closures will not affect customer service, mail delivery, Post Office operations or ZIP codes.

“I am confident we have developed a strong plan that takes a key step toward a leaner and less bureaucratic structure. One that is fair to our employees and one that will meet the future needs of our customers and the mailing industry,” said Donahoe.

This organizational redesign builds on previous PMG announcements that include a 16 percent reduction in officer ranks, realigning revenue-generating business units, closing the Southeast Area Office, and further reducing the employee complement by about 7,500 positions.

While yesterday’s announcement focused on the administrative and executive corps, additional staff reductions will occur as the Postal Service makes necessary changes to its network and retail operations. The full scope and financial impact of these personnel actions should be realized in one calendar year — by March 2012.

Reference: usps.gov
emphasis (bold-print) added by The Postal Newsgroup

March 25 Postal Announcement, USPS March 25 Announcement,

USPS overstated savings of ending Saturday delivery [PRC]

2011-03-24T17:17:00.000-05:00

Plan To End Saturday Mail Delivery Overstates Costs, Report Says "... While the U.S. Postal Service estimates that ending Saturday delivery of mail would save $3.1 billion a year, the Postal Regulatory Commission issued a report today saying that figure overstates the savings by about $1.4 billion annually...."

Article Reference Source: www.npr.org

2011-03-12T17:14:00.000-06:00

Four people were taken to a hospital from a Bethesda post office Saturday for skin irritation, but authorities said they found no evidence of hazardous materials "...Direct mail is a tried and true small business marketing method that puts a reminder directly in the hands of the consumer. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.overnightprints.com

RSVP Publications Introduces a Direct Marketing “Game Changer” – QR Code Technology in Direct Mail Packs

2011-03-08T00:03:00.000-06:00

RSVP Publications Introduces a Direct Marketing “Game Changer” – QR Code Technology in Direct Mail Packs "...-RSVP Publications (http://rsvppublications.com), a direct marketing and direct mail company specializing in reaching affluent homeowners, has breathed new life into direct mail by adding quick response (QR) codes to its direct mail ..."

Article Reference Source: www.businesswire.com

Consumers prefer direct mail from charities over any other venue

2011-02-27T09:26:00.000-06:00

Consumers prefer direct mail from charities over any other venue "... In fact, a recent survey by direct mail specialists Onepost, W8data and Fast.map found that consumers prefer receiving letters and print material from charities more than emails, phone calls or contacts through social media, Third Sector UK reported...."

Article Reference Source: www.overnightprints.com

Royal Mail a leader in doing what needs to be done: raising prices

2011-02-24T10:59:00.000-06:00

Royal Mail price increase 'will hit direct mail' "...Last year, the postal regulator proposed allowing Royal Mail to increase the price of business mail, as part of a package of deregulatory suggestions. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.dma.org.uk

Two Sides announces new Mail Sector Group

2011-02-19T06:40:00.001-06:00

Two Sides announces new Mail Sector Group "...Royal Mail's Head of Sustainability, Matthew Neilson, said: “The direct mail industry, with the support of Royal Mail, has made significant strides in reducing the impact of its activities on the environment, both through increased sustainability of ..."

Article Reference Source: whattheythink.com

Economic indicators suggest the dramatic decline in mail volume is over

2011-02-10T09:54:00.000-06:00

REVENUE CONTINUES TO DECLINE "...Total first quarter mail volume of 46.4 billion pieces increased by 707 million pieces (1.5 percent) compared to 45.7 billion pieces in the first quarter of 2010. ..."

Article Reference Source: usps.gov

Direct Mail Industry Booming

2011-01-31T09:40:00.000-06:00

MORE DIRECT MAIL "... According to the Winterberry Group, a marketing consulting organization, companies in 2010 increased direct mail use by 3.1 percent, spending $45.2 billion. ..."

Article Reference Source: usps.gov

Direct Mail Advertising Industry report

2011-01-18T10:41:00.000-06:00

2011 Worldwide Direct Mail Advertising Industry Report "... The Direct Mail Advertising Industry report, published annually, contains timely and accurate industry statistics, forecasts and demographics. The report features 2011 current and 2012 forecast estimates on the size of the industry (sales, establishments, employment) for the 47 largest world countries..."

Article Reference Source: www.researchandmarkets.com

Former Postmaster General to open up global supply chains and logistics

2011-01-13T02:51:00.000-06:00

Former Postmaster General Back at Work "... new project, headed by former Postmaster General of the United States Jack Potter, to open up global supply chains and logistics for American companies...."

Article Reference Source: npmhu317.blogspot.com

Dunavant global logistics operations

2011-01-13T02:40:00.000-06:00

Dunavant global logistics operations "...global supply expertise is derived from managing commodity shipments for one of the largest cotton merchants in the world. Our logistics operation has a broad database of supply chain partners including over 3,000 domestic and international logistics companies. Our strategic partners have a long history with our company and have been pre-qualified to meet stringent standards for safety, performance, and service. Combining smart technology with our global supply chain expertise, Dunavant is uniquely qualified to solve and manage complex problems for any channel of distribution. Dunavant has..."

Article Reference Source: www.dunavant.com

New USPS PMG Lays Out Restructure Plans (Letter)

2011-01-11T10:07:00.001-06:00

New USPS PMG Lays Out Restructure Plans (Letter)

The new Postmaster General has put out a memo regarding organization changes, as well as announcing a Reduction in Force and Voluntary Early Retirement for postal employees. The Mailing Industry would like to thank the workers at the USPS for a fantastic job in getting the mail out in a timely and professional manner and are in hopes that the new Postmaster General will reward the employees with a generous retirement offer. Universal Service to the people and businesses of this great country is a service we cannot afford to damage.

Shipping Consultants Can Lower Shipping Costs

2011-01-07T14:45:00.000-06:00

AFMS Logistics Management Group "...AFMS draws its insight, knowledge and information from a staff comprised of former vice presidents and senior sales and pricing managers from FedEx, UPS, DHL, the USPS and other major carriers of the industry. With over 400 years of collective carrier management experience, AFMS has the knowledge and expertise to help companies reduce logistics costs and bring profits to the bottom line...."

Article Reference Source: www.afms.com

Inside Direct Mail

2010-12-30T10:58:00.002-06:00

Inside Direct Mail goes full-color, printed on glossy stock--for a magazine look.: An article from: The Newsletter on Newsletters "... Inside Direct Mail goes full-color, printed on glossy stock--for a magazine look.: An article from: The Newsletter on Newsletters [HTML] [Digital]..."

Article Reference Source: Inside Direct Mail goes full-color, printed on glossy stock--for a magazine look.: An article from: The Newsletter on Newsletters

10 Best Print Magazines for Marketers

2010-12-30T10:55:00.000-06:00

10 Best Print Magazines for Marketers "... If you use direct mail to promote your company, then you cannot afford not to subscribe to Inside Direct Mail. Each week, you will get information about trends, cost savings and what other people are putting into the mail right now. This magazine is free to qualified professionals...."

Article Reference Source: thesocialrobot.com

U.S. Postal Service to Expand Simplified Addressing for Businesses

2010-12-23T10:56:00.000-06:00

U.S. Postal Service to Expand Simplified Addressing for Businesses "... "Simplified addressing will serve as the on-ramp for many small businesses trying to reach their audiences within a specific geographic range," said Vogel. "It will allow them for the first time to take advantage of the most effective marketing channel there is — direct mail."..."

Article Reference Source: www.prnewswire.com

5 Benefits of Using Direct Mail Postcards

2010-12-21T22:39:00.001-06:00

5 Benefits of Using Direct Mail Postcards "... this new marketing environment seems to bring out a few natural advantages in direct mail postcards. The advantages of direct mail postcards..."

Article Reference Source: www.delivermagazine.com

Twin Rivers Initiates Direct Mail Campaign to Highlight Its Line-Up of Annual Report Papers

2010-12-20T20:59:00.000-06:00

Twin Rivers Initiates Direct Mail Campaign to Highlight Its Line-Up of Annual Report Papers "... As specifiers and printers finalize paper specifications for 2010 annual reports, Twin Rivers Paper Company has launched a direct mail campaign to communicate its affordable, lightweight line-up of annual report papers...."

Article Reference Source: pr-canada.net

Gourmet food mail order industry

2010-12-20T20:55:00.000-06:00

Harry & David has last-minute gift ideas for the holidays "... They soon expanded into mail order, and created towers, baskets and the fruit of the month club. They began the gourmet food mail order industry...."

Article Reference Source: www.abc15.com

DM rallies to fight Royal Mail price hikes

2010-12-20T20:49:00.000-06:00

DM rallies to fight Royal Mail price hikes "... "[Royal Mail] may get away without losing a huge amount of volume in 2011, because for business and bulk mail they still have a captive audience..."

Article Reference Source: www.printweek.com

Profit Down, Revenue Up at FedEx

2010-12-16T13:05:00.000-06:00

www.memphisdailynews.com "... FedEx Corp., the world’s second-largest package delivery company, said its profit fell 18 percent during the Memphis-based shipper’s fiscal second quarter...."

Article Reference Source: www.memphisdailynews.com

Get listed in the 'Direct Marketing Buyers Guide'

2010-12-16T12:55:00.000-06:00

GET LISTED IN THE DIRECT MARKETING BUYERS GUIDE AND REACH THOUSANDS EVERY MONTH "... The buyers guide is the industry's primary source of product & service suppliers for today's leading direct marketers & multichannel merchants. ..."

Article Reference Source: multichannelmerchant.com

Direct Mail Outlook : Education, Tools Remain Key

2010-12-14T22:54:00.000-06:00

Direct Mail Outlook : Education, Tools Remain Key "... Good news was difficult to find in 2010 for the printers of direct mail, not to mention the direct marketing community. Even the United States Postal Service (USPS) struggled..."

Article Reference Source: www.piworld.com

Nova Direct Mail launches digitally-printed scented mail service

2010-12-08T22:39:00.000-06:00

Nova Direct Mail launches digitally-printed scented mail service "... "We’ve always been innovative at Nova so I wanted to do something with personalised direct mail that went beyond simply putting the recipient’s name in the mailing piece," said Andy Fry, managing director at Nova Direct Mail...."

Article Reference Source: www.printweek.com

Police say postal worker shot near Miami

2010-12-07T18:44:00.003-06:00

Police say postal worker shot near Miami "... postal worker has been shot and critically wounded..."

Article Reference Source: www.weartv.com

Mailer Magnets

2010-12-05T18:22:00.000-06:00

Mailer Magnets "... Magnet mailers are significantly more effective than direct mail pieces without magnets. Whatever your need their graphic designers will design your custom mailer magnets and postcards free of charge! What's more, they can take care of fulfillment, list management, and mailing!..."

Article Reference Source: www.magnets.com

Direct mail 'can work alongside social media'

2010-12-05T11:16:00.000-06:00

Direct mail 'can work alongside social media' "... direct mail can generate sales leads and provide reliable metrics, social media adds "the personal touch" that can encourage brand loyalty...."

Article Reference Source: thomsonlocal.com

10 Marketing Phrases to Avoid

2010-12-01T23:53:00.000-06:00

10 Marketing Phrases to Avoid "... 10 direct mail marketing copy phrases you should ditch..."

Article Reference Source: www.delivermagazine.com

U.S. Postal Service Revamps 'How-To' Direct Mail Website

2010-12-01T23:49:00.000-06:00

U.S. Postal Service Revamps 'How-To' Direct Mail Website "... With approximately 7,000 visitors a month, delivermagazine.com features the latest research, news and commentary for the direct marketing industry. Article topics include brand marketing, prospecting and green marketing, among other direct marketing strategies. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.prnewswire.com

Top 4 Stocks In The Catalog & Mail Order Houses Industry With The Highest Profit Margin (EBAY, STMP, LINTA, NILE)

2010-12-01T01:33:00.000-06:00

Top 4 Stocks In The Catalog & Mail Order Houses Industry With The Highest Profit Margin (EBAY, STMP, LINTA, NILE) "...the top catalog & mail order house stocks on the NYSE and NASDAQ in terms of profit margin..."

Article Reference Source: www.benzinga.com

Direct mail pioneer Robert Jurick passes away

2010-11-23T00:18:00.000-06:00

Direct mail pioneer Robert Jurick passes away "... Robert H. Jurick, one of Long Island’ savviest business professionals and a trail blazer in the direct marketing field, died Nov. 9 in Boca Raton, Fla...."

Article Reference Source: libn.com

Shouldn't we return worksharing to the Postal Service?

2010-11-20T11:00:00.001-06:00

Note: Here is an article on the controversial issue of worksharing. Postal unions claim they can do it less expensively, while mailers want to continue the large discounts they receive for the worksharing.

Postal Service considers customer experience improvements "... the Postal Service regularly looks at simplifying its mail preparation rules and complex rate structure, that effort worries some commercial mailers, who feel it threatens the USPS' worksharing program. That initiative provides discounted postage prices to mailers that do mail preparation work..."

Article Reference Source: www.dmnews.com

5 Tips That Could Save Your Direct Mail Campaign

2010-11-19T12:35:00.000-06:00

5 Tips That Could Save Your Direct Mail Campaign "... Are you worried that your direct mail campaign is stalling? Even though changes may be in store, you are probably closer to success than you ever imagined possible. By following the five tips..."

Article Reference Source: rismedia.com

55% of web users will shop online this Christmas

2010-11-18T17:10:00.000-06:00

But shoppers may be putting themselves at risk

55% of web users will shop online this Christmas "... 48 percent of online Christmas shoppers will use a search engine, such as Google, to find gifts online, and more than half of those claim they trust the first few pages of results. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.networkworld.com

Direct mail 'has had a good 2010'

2010-11-15T11:26:00.000-06:00

Direct mail 'has had a good 2010' "...Direct marketing has had a good year as companies have turned to its "age old attributes of targeting, respond rates and accountability" to bolster their economic recovery, a commentator has said. ..."

Article Reference Source: thomsonlocal.com

Quad Graphics expected closure of six North American printing plants

2010-11-12T08:04:00.000-06:00

Quad/Graphics Reports 3rd Quarter 2010 Results "... Of the six North American plant closures the Company has announced or accelerated since completing the acquisition, three have closed already and the remaining three are expected to close by year end. In total, these plants represent the consolidation..."

Article Reference Source: www.marketwatch.com

More USPS direct mail discounts

2010-11-12T07:51:00.000-06:00

USPS proposes direct mail discounts "...The United States Postal Service is looking to introduce a series of discounts for companies that send high volumes of direct mail to consumers, reports the print blog What They Think. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.overnightprints.com

Copalletization Versus Commingling Mail: What is the benefit?

2010-11-02T00:54:00.000-05:00

Copalletization Versus Commingling Mail: What is the benefit? "... copalletizing mail yields savings by reducing trucking costs and providing more efficient use of space in transportation required for drop shipping mail to Postal destinations. But there are even deeper discounts that can be realized by commingling mail..."

Article Reference Source: www.npisorters.com

Direct mail 'may drive further marketing growth'

2010-11-02T00:47:00.000-05:00

Direct mail 'may drive further marketing growth' "... Direct mail could be among the marketing formats to be experiencing promising growth at present, it has been suggested...."

Article Reference Source: directmarketing.thomsonlocal.com

Priority Mail

2010-11-02T00:43:00.000-05:00

Priority Mail Flat Rate "... Take the guesswork out of shipping with Priority Mail® Flat Rates. Whatever fits in the box or envelope ships for one low rate—anywhere in the United States. There's virtually no weighing or calculating. And your packages reach their destination in 2-3 days. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.usps.com

Postmaster General Announces Retirement

2010-10-26T06:50:00.001-05:00

A LETTER TO ALL EMPLOYEES FROM POSTMASTER GENERAL JACK POTTER "... Pat Donahoe, Deputy Postmaster General and Chief Operating Officer, will become our new Postmaster General when I “end tour” Dec. 3...."

Article Reference Source: usps.gov

Commingling Mail

2010-10-23T22:17:00.001-05:00

IWCO Direct Expands Its Commingling Capabilities at Hamburg Facility "... IWCO Direct pioneered single-pass commingling in 1995 and continues to lead the industry in commingling capacity and technology. Commingling is the automated sorting of multiple mailstreams into a common mail tray to drive the highest level of postage discounts. Commingling results in reduced postage costs and faster time to market, which can lead to increased response rates...."

Article Reference Source: www.piworld.com

Catalog & Mail Order Houses Industry With The Highest Cash

2010-10-22T22:30:00.000-05:00

Top 4 Stocks In The Catalog & Mail Order Houses Industry With The Highest Cash (AMZN, EBAY, IACI, LINTA) "...top catalog & mail order house stocks on the NYSE and the NASDAQ in terms of cash. Amazon.com ..."

Article Reference Source: www.benzinga.com

Postal Service slow in delivering ballots

2010-10-20T11:34:00.000-05:00

Postal Service slow in delivering ballots "... “It was explained to me that the post office has reduced its processing capabilities,” he said. “The post office is struggling...."

Article Reference Source: The Postal Newsgroup

Walk sequence mailing software - Occupant/Residential Lists

2010-10-17T23:09:00.000-05:00

Walk sequence mailing software "... Easily saturate a neighborhood and get the lowest postage rates possible with inexpensive occupant/residents lists. These lists include all the addresses in a geographic area, and contain the address, city, state, ZIP + 4 and carrier route code for all deliverable addresses. Melissa Data occupant lists come in walk sequence order and include our 100% deliverability guarantee...."

Article Reference Source: www.melissadata.com

3 Simple Ways to Reduce Business Junk Mail

2010-09-27T23:42:00.000-05:00

3 Simple Ways to Reduce Business Junk Mail "...The real tragedy is that 44% of that mail goes directly to landfills without ever being opened, representing 2 million tons of solid waste and 44 million trees——all for nothing. ..."

Article Reference Source: ecopreneurist.com

Direct mail 'most attractive to 15 to 24-year-olds'

2010-09-07T11:09:00.000-05:00

Direct mail 'most attractive to 15 to 24-year-olds' "...According to the recently published Marketing Agencies Association Agency Barometer, 87 per cent of marketers feel positive about the future ..."

Article Reference Source: www.qas.co.uk

TNT survey reveals a third of donors give after receiving direct mail

2010-08-31T23:49:00.000-05:00

TNT survey reveals a third of donors give after receiving direct mail "... One-third of people who make donations to charity are prompted to do so by receiving direct mail from the organization in the post,..."

Article Reference Source: www.thirdsector.co.uk

Direct Mailings

2010-08-31T23:46:00.000-05:00

Direct mail remains compelling to recipients, says expert "... most people tend to make a point of properly going through their mail. Speaking to Pitney Bowes Direct Connect, he said: "There's something about getting that piece of mail...."

Article Reference Source: directmarketing.thomsonlocal.com

Waltz, Nationally Recognized in Postal Industry, Named Cathedral's VP for Postal Affairs and Business Development

2010-08-23T11:30:00.000-05:00

Waltz, Nationally Recognized in Postal Industry, Named Cathedral's VP for Postal Affairs and Business Development "..."Kim's extensive knowledge of the postal industry and its communications network, including her ability to analyze postal issues, offers a tremendous resource for Cathedral customers," said Marianne W. Gaige, President and CEO of Cathedral Corporation. "Her standing within the postal service and insight into future strategy will help our customers gain a competitive advantage in this area." Waltz, who has amassed more than 30 years experience in the mailing industry in the Northeast..."

Article Reference Source: www.prnewswire.com

Unusual bunch of foes to postal rate increase unites as Affordable Mail Alliance

2010-08-11T21:02:00.001-05:00

Unusual bunch of foes to postal rate increase unites as Affordable Mail Alliance"... The alliance has hired a prominent Democratic-leaning media firm, SKDKnickerbocker, to handle its communications strategy. SKD partner Anita Dunn recently returned to the firm after serving as President Obama's communications director; another partner, Bill Knapp, produced television ads for the Obama campaign. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.washingtonpost.com

USPS Asks PRC to Reject AMA’s Request

2010-08-05T20:49:00.000-05:00

USPS Asks PRC to Reject AMA’s Request"... The Postal Service has proven extraordinary circumstances: Precipitous, unprecedented and unforeseen drops in mail volume are inarguable and meet the definition and spirit of the law. The worst recession since the Great Depression meets this criteria, according to the USPS. ..."

Article Reference Source: multichannelmerchant.com

us postal service rates - Calculate Business Postage

2010-07-27T08:30:00.002-05:00

Calculate Business Postage "...Calculate domestic postage for all volume discount mail for postacard, letter, flat, and parcel ..."

Article Reference Source: www.usps.com

Affordable Mail Alliance Calls on Postal Regulatory Commission to Dismiss Postal Service Rate Hike Request

2010-07-26T23:16:00.002-05:00

Affordable Mail Alliance Calls on Postal Regulatory Commission to Dismiss Postal Service Rate Hike Request"...The PAEA limits the average postal rate hike to inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). There is an exception to the CPI cap only for "exigent circumstances" when the Postal Service could not continue operating without overall price increases above the CPI. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.affordablemailalliance.org

Netflix supports postal rate increases

2010-07-19T08:22:00.002-05:00

Rate increases outrage mailers"...rate increase, Netflix expressed support for the rate changes. “We support the US Postal Service's total recommended changes, or restructuring. We are in support of that because we believe in a stronger Postal Service with affordable rates and predictable service is in the country's best interests, certainly in Netflix's best interests, rather than a weakened Postal Service that is facing such huge deficits,” said Steve Swasey,..."

Article Reference Source: www.dmnews.com

More Hypocrisy as Big Mailers Decry Rate Hike

2010-07-19T08:16:00.001-05:00

More Hypocrisy as Big Mailers Decry Rate Hike "... commercial mailers have been permitted to influence postal management beyond the scope of their contribution. While direct mail accounts for an ever-increasing share of mail volume, its contribution to USPS revenue is a pitiful 20 percent. But the voice of the average citizen, who pays 44 cents postage per letter, is drowned out by those who have access to USPS decision-makers...."

Article Reference Source: www.apwu.org

Stamp Increase

2010-07-07T02:44:00.000-05:00

Stamp prices going up again - 46-cent rate asked

"...Under the proposed increases, in addition to the 46-cent rate for the first ounce, the cost for each additional ounce would go up a penny to 18 cents. The cost to mail a postcard would go up 2 cents to 30 cents...."

This Article is From: www.federalnewsradio.com

Caught Like a Burglar With the Goods in Hand

2009-12-16T07:55:00.002-06:00

Caught Like a Burglar With the Goods in Hand
"...workshare discounts have actually increased from 7.6 percent of the postage rate in 1976 (a one-cent discount on the 13-cent cost of a first-class letter) to 23.9 percent in 2009 (a 10.5-cent discount on the 44-cent cost of a first-class letter). These discounts diminish the USPS return on investment. Notwithstanding the activity of the major mailers and others, postal employees must perform further sortation to achieve the 11-digit sortation that directs the mail to the appropriate Letter Carrier and into “walk sequence” for delivery. The work performed by the mailer that allegedly justifies the discount does not complete the preparation of mail for delivery and serves little purpose. The postal system would do just fine if the mailers performed no mail-processing activity and paid the uniform rate. Spare me the justification that mail volume will suffer if mailers are required to pay the legal rate. The loss of mail volume does not justify violations of the uniform rate standard: Management and the mailers must change the law or comply...."

Article Reference Source: www.apwu.org

Postal Service says Killing Small Periodicals...

2009-12-16T07:24:00.002-06:00

Postal Service Says Killing Small Periodicals Is a "Win-Win"
"... Elijah Cummings was angry. The Democratic congressman from Baltimore represents a district that is home to the Afro-American Newspaper, a weekly publication that is in jeopardy of going out of business due to the United States Postal Service's recent rate hike on small periodicals...."

Article Reference Source: motherjones.com

Mail and marketing groups launch online forum on Postal Service's future

2009-12-02T12:06:00.001-06:00

Mail and marketing groups launch online forum on Postal Service's future
"... The goals of PostalJournal.com are to explore the evolution of the USPS as part of the nation's economic and communications infrastructure and to create an exchange of ideas about the industry, without consideration to professional affiliations...."

Article Reference Source: www.dmnews.com

CIO Ross Philo On 'Post Office' In Your Home

2009-11-20T19:36:00.001-06:00

CIO Ross Philo On 'Post Office' In Your Home
"... going to completely transform that the way the mail can be used by these large mailers. InformationWeek: What's the status of the Intelligent Mail..."

Article Reference Source: www.informationweek.com

Mailing Industry Executive Business Administration program (MIEBA)

2009-11-11T00:32:00.002-06:00

Mailing Industry Executive Business Administration program (MIEBA)
"...The in-depth six day MIEBA program is targeted for printers who currently mail, printers who are expanding into mailing, or the mailing company that is looking to enhance existing capabilities, reduce current expenses and increase future profits. MIEBA attendees learn how to survive and thrive in the business of mail. The program, which often qualifies for state and county education/training grants, includes hands-on learning instruction as well as exercises in classrooms and computer labs at The Bennett Group's Mailing Training Institute in Rochester, NY...."

Article Reference Source: www.the-bennett-group.com

Congress should preserve postal service

2009-11-02T10:35:00.001-06:00

Congress should preserve postal service
"... The USPS, the third largest employer in the nation, is the center of America’s trillion-dollar mailing industry that employs over 8 million people...."

Article Reference Source: www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/opinion

Mailing Industry Executives Tell Workers to Sacrifice

2009-10-16T14:35:00.000-05:00

Mailing Industry Executives Tell Workers to Sacrifice
"...postal employees have made tremendous sacrifices as the USPS confronts financial difficulties. More than 40,000 jobs have been wiped out in the last year; thousands of employees have been reassigned to work sites hundreds of miles from their homes; and part-time employees have had their hours slashed. ... I have issued a challenge to the Postmaster General: Discontinue the exorbitant postage discounts that are offered to large mailers — which are currently as high as 10.5 cents per letter — and allow members of the APWU to perform all mail-processing functions at the rate of 10.4 cents for every letter and flat. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.apwu.org

Postmaster General Begins National Dialogue

2009-10-08T19:44:00.001-05:00

Postmaster General Begins National Dialogue
"... Acknowledging that the Postal Service has seen steep mail volume declines in the past two years because of the recession, electronic diversion by the internet, and changing customer needs, Potter asked the multi-billion dollar mailing industry to join him and come to the table without preconceptions, except one - “the Postal Service has to offer affordable, universal service for the nation.”..."

Article Reference Source: www.enewspf.com

First-Class Mail prices proposed by the Postal Service fail to comply with the statutorily imposed workshare requirements of 39 U.S.C. § 3622(e)

2009-09-15T08:20:00.004-05:00

DISSENTING OPINION OF COMMISSIONER GOLDWAY
"... This unilateral decision on the part of the Postal Service is far reaching in that it directly influences the design of economically efficient rates, the distribution of hundreds of millions of dollars in workshare discounts, and potentially could lead to Postal Service decisions that place an unequal, and potentially unfair, price burden on single-piece mailers...."

Article Reference Source: docs.google.com

Direct mailers sponsor survey on 5-day mail delivery

2009-09-08T00:23:00.001-05:00

Direct mailers sponsor survey on 5-day mail delivery
"...The USPS projects that moving from six- to five-day service, if approved by Congress, will save more than $3 billion annually. ..."

Article Reference Source: www.btobonline.com

USPS Offering $15,000 Retirement Incentive

2009-08-25T14:36:00.000-05:00

USPS Offers $15,000 Retirement or Resignation Incentive
The United States Postal Service is offering a $15,000 Retirement or resignation incentive to certain employees. The first installment will be $10,000 in November 2009 and the other $5000 will be one year later. Mailings will go out in the next few days to eligible employees. Stay tuned for more details. Update coming soon. The Postal Newsgroup

Eye Opener: Postmaster General On Obama's Postal Comments

2009-08-25T08:12:00.002-05:00

Eye Opener: Postmaster General On Obama's Postal Comments
"... Despite the comparisons and suggestions that the Postal Service lags behind UPS and FedEx, Potter noted that the two leading shipping companies fly most domestic mail while postal carriers deliver UPS and FedEx throughout rural America...."

Article Reference Source: washingtonpost.com

USPS Early Retirement Program Suggestion

2009-08-05T09:44:00.001-05:00

Excellent Suggestion Found on Online Postal Employee Community Forum
"...USPS should offer some type of liberal leave policy, as well as permitting a liberal "Leave of Absence" program, both designed and published as a program coinciding with the VER. This would give adequate time to find a job, go through the hiring process, and begin the new employment in an effort to ease the transition into a new life...."
Reference: postal-newsgroup.blogspot.com

USPS Layoffs?

2009-08-03T08:56:00.001-05:00

Stopping Saturday mail delivery could mean layoffs for USPS
"... If Congress eliminates Saturday mail delivery to help the cash-strapped U.S. Postal Service, then layoffs are a possibility, a top USPS official acknowledged to House lawmakers on Thursday...."

Article Reference Source: www.govexec.com

Rumors about USPS payroll

2009-07-24T09:53:00.000-05:00

A Postal News Website Attempts to Squash Rumor of the USPS Being Unable to Make Payroll in October

"...unable to confirm the validity of the postal service not being able to make payroll in October. ..."

::► Source: postal-newsgroup.blogspot.com

Decline Mail Decline

2009-07-21T09:11:00.000-05:00

The Case Of The Missing Billions: Interpublic Giveth, But Mostly, It Taketh Away
"... the medium that takes the biggest methodological hit, is not one many agencies and media vendors normally think about: direct mail. Under Wieser's new math, the direct mail industry has shrunk by $39.2 billion, from $58.4 billion in Coen's last estimate, to $19.2 billion in Wieser's revised projection. ..."
Article Reference Source: www.mediapost.com

Mailing Industry News: Company Announces New Blog

2009-07-19T07:01:00.000-05:00

BCC Software: Mailing Industry News
"...blog you’re reading is not the first of its kind in the mailing industry, nor will it likely be the last. But as a company on the move, we expect it will contain insights on timely topics that you will be hard-pressed to find anywhere else..."
Article Reference Source: blog.bccsoftware.com

Tags: Postal News, Intelligent Mail, Move Update timelines, ongoing barcode quality improvement

Biz Spotlight: Postal Pete ...#1 Postal Jeep Dealer in the World!

2009-07-17T14:22:00.000-05:00

Postal Pete ...#1 Postal Jeep Dealer in the World!

If you are looking for a postal Jeep there are many dealers specializing in this area. One dealer is Postal Pete at postalpete.com. Here's what
Rosean & Pete have to say about their experience in the postal jeep business:

"Selling Postal Jeeps has broadened our horizons and introduced us to hundreds of interesting people. We have found that the people who work for the postal industry are friendly and honest. In this business, as in the postal carrier delivery business, the people you deal with day to day make the difference between enjoying your occupation or not. God bless you all and hey, be careful out there."

Fred Smith: capitalist criminal

2009-06-29T10:41:00.000-05:00

FedEx CEO makes billions exploiting workers, but still wants more
Fred Smith: capitalist criminal
"... added another $44.49 million from his compensation as CEO. FedEx’s, and Smith’s, contribution to the mailing industry has been to undermine the union wages and conditions won by the U.S. postal and UPS workers...."
Article Reference Source: www.pslweb.org

Local direct marketing company says it takes 'junk' out of junk mail

2009-06-17T07:48:00.000-05:00

Local direct marketing company says it takes 'junk' out of junk mail
"... Baber specializes in variable-data printing -- direct-mail campaigns that are tailored to individual recipients by including in the sales message relevant information like proper names and imagery that appeals to various demographics defined by gender, age and race...."
Article Reference Source: www.commercialappeal.com

FedEx's Anti-Union Drive

2009-06-12T09:43:00.000-05:00

FedEx's Anti-Union Drive
"... "This bill puts FedEx on the same footing as UPS." The Teamsters union is pushing for the bill as a way to create what it calls a level playing field for workers at the two companies. ..."
Article Reference Source: www.businessweek.com

FedEx campaign targets UPS support of labor bill

2009-06-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

FedEx campaign targets UPS support of labor bill
"... A multimillion-dollar ad campaign was launched today by FedEx to target UPS' support of legislation that would make it easier for FedEx employees to unionize. The campaign includes a Web site, brownbailout.com, which asks consumers..."
Article Reference Source: www.dmnews.com

The Latest Direct Marketing Market Report is Available Today

2009-06-12T09:14:00.000-05:00

"... Direct marketing employs a number of channels to deliver the sales message. The traditional channels of direct mail, inserts, door drops and telemarketing have been in decline in recent years, although direct mail has continued to take the largest share of the direct marketing wallet. ..."
Article Reference Source: www.earthtimes.org

Study reveals secret of successful direct mail

2009-06-12T09:08:00.000-05:00

Study reveals secret of successful direct mail
"... too little attention is being paid to ensuring direct marketing arrives at a time when the recipient is most likely to respond and buy.”..."
Article Reference Source: www.data-strategy.co.uk

Direct mail 'the least effective' form of fundraising, study claims

2009-06-12T08:16:00.000-05:00

Direct mail 'the least effective' form of fundraising, study claims
"...The research, conducted by charity comparison site Intelligent Giving, found that printed material such as newspapers and direct mail returned the least amount of donations per pound spent, at £2.99 and £5.08 respectively. ..."
Article Reference Source: www.printweek.com

Can Sending Direct Mail Boost Website ROI?

2009-05-14T07:34:00.000-05:00

Can Sending Direct Mail Boost Website ROI?
"... The results of a 2007 Multi-Channel Direct Mail Study by comScore highlighted that 67% of prospects whom have received direct mail and printed catalogs were persuaded to visit company websites...."
Article Reference Source: thedirectmarketingvoice.com

Postal service inspector general seeking data on sick time views

2009-05-01T09:13:00.000-05:00

"...The OIG is collecting the data as anecdotal information, and it may be used as part of an ongoing audit on attitudes in the postal service, an OIG spokesperson said. According to the blog, the USPS indentified about 35,000 of its 640,026 employees who had 20 or more unscheduled absences last year, which translates to 5% of employees with nearly one absence for every pay period...."

This Article is From: www.dmnews.com

New Slim-Jim Standards to Kick In May 11

2009-04-29T06:54:00.000-05:00

New Slim-Jim Standards to Kick In May 11
"... catalogers rely on the slim-jim books to keep costs down. But the USPS says slim-jims jam sorting machines, so it has developed revisions for the physical characteristics of letter-size booklets. To view the new standards for slim-jims (federal register notice #39 CFR part 111)..."
Article Reference Source: multichannelmerchant.com