Royal Mail has successfully reached its target of 90% automation in its parcel operations, a notable accomplishment that enhances efficiency and service quality. This achievement forms part of the company's broader modernisation strategy, which has introduced substantial changes across the organization.
The company met this automation goal following years of investment, which included:
These enhancements have significantly expedited parcel delivery, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, accommodating the rising demand for next-day delivery services.
Royal Mail's modernisation efforts have even extended to upgrading some of its longstanding products. Recently, the Royal Mail app was enhanced to allow customers to request proof of postage when dropping off smaller parcels at any of the 115,000 postboxes across the UK.
Additionally, the company became the first delivery service globally to implement digital tracking on its containers for letters and parcels, providing real-time data on location, humidity, and temperature throughout transit. In 2023, Royal Mail further modernized by adding digital barcodes to postage stamps, improving tracking and minimizing counterfeits.
Alistair Cochrane, Chief Operating Officer of Royal Mail, stated, “Reaching 90% automation is a key milestone in our mission to deliver a modern, more efficient Royal Mail. We will continue to explore new technologies to enhance our performance and meet the evolving needs of our customers while also supporting our workforce with cutting-edge technology.”