The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has released a study indicating that the Dutch postal service is on a path to becoming structurally loss-making without significant changes. To keep the service affordable, cutbacks are necessary, which will likely involve reduced delivery speeds while enhancing reliability for all types of mail.

According to ACM, reliability is the top priority for both senders and receivers. The study, commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, highlights that the current target reliability rate of 95% has not been met for years, particularly for business mail, which lacks statutory protection. ACM suggests that general statutory reliability requirements should be included in the Dutch Postal Act to ensure timely delivery of all mail.

While reliability remains paramount, the study also indicates that affordability and delivery speeds are important, albeit to a lesser extent. Scenarios tested in the study suggest that reducing delivery speeds may be the most viable option, potentially decreasing the frequency of door-to-door deliveries from five days a week.

ACM acknowledges uncertainty regarding the financial implications of these changes on PostNL, the main postal operator. The authority emphasizes that any potential subsidies from the legislature should come with clear conditions regarding reliability and delivery speeds.

Despite the challenges, the study reveals that many users still wish to utilize paper mail in the future, as digital alternatives may not be suitable for everyone. ACM notes that while a full-fledged competitor is unlikely to emerge soon, the transition towards a broader delivery market is underway, with parcel and flyer networks beginning to compete with traditional mail services.