Denmark’s state-owned postal service, PostNord, is making a strategic shift by phasing out letter delivery by the end of 2025. The decision comes as a response to the substantial decrease in letter volumes witnessed over the past two decades, largely attributed to the digital transformation of society.
Similarly, Canada’s postal service has also experienced a significant decline in mail volume, prompting discussions around potential changes, such as discontinuing home delivery. While Canada may not be ready to completely eliminate letter delivery like Denmark just yet, experts believe it could be an inevitable progression in the future.
In Denmark, where the cost of postage is notably higher compared to Canada, the decline in mail volume has been even more pronounced, with a staggering 90% drop over a similar timeframe. PostNord’s CEO, Kim Pedersen, emphasized the dwindling frequency of letter receipts among Danish residents, highlighting a shift towards online shopping and e-commerce as a major trend.
Denmark’s strong emphasis on digitalization, exemplified by its top rankings in global surveys, has paved the way for the discontinuation of letter delivery. Government services and communications have largely transitioned to digital platforms, with physical mail being reserved as a last resort.
However, concerns have been raised about the impact on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those in remote areas, who may face challenges in accessing digital services. PostNord has assured that private delivery services will step in to fulfill the letter delivery role, but uncertainties remain regarding the accessibility and cost implications for individuals in remote regions.
In Canada, the recent postal strike underscored the reliance on traditional mail for essential services like voter cards and ballots, which are yet to be fully digitized. This lag in digitalization has been attributed to some degree of “tech resistance” within the Canadian government, potentially influenced by concerns over preserving jobs.
Despite these challenges, experts suggest that Canada might eventually follow Denmark’s lead in phasing out letter delivery, albeit with considerations for cultural differences and the unique role of physical mail in certain business strategies. The evolving landscape of digital services and changing consumer behaviors could shape the future of mail delivery in both countries.