Nationwide support for UK mailing houses in partnership’s 10th anniversary year

In its 10th anniversary year, the Strategic Mailing Partnership (SMP) now has members in all four corners of the UK, from Scotland and Tyneside to Devon and Northern Ireland.

The partnership, which is the only known specialist supply chain network for post in Europe, has around just around 10% of its membership based in London.

The majority of member mailing houses are located in the Midlands, followed by the South East then Yorkshire, the North East/West and central England. Seven are based in Scotland, three in Wales and one in Northern Ireland.

Regional diversity is reflected in the make-up of the organisation’s board, with representatives from Edinburgh, the North East, North West, Yorkshire, the Midlands and Oxfordshire, with just a single London-based board member.

This year’s annual summit in London attracted more than 100 members from all four corners of the UK.

What’s more, organisations are represented regardless of size or turnover, therefore niche concerns can enjoy the same benefits and advice as large, multi-site operations.

The group ensures that members’ specialist skillsets and knowledge are made visible to Royal Mail in order to achieve a consultative approach to its products, operations and market development.

SMP Chair Judith Donovan CBE said: “In contrast to some associations, which are dominated by representation in London and the south east, just 16 of our 150+ members are based in the capital. That means we can share our insight and expertise with members across the UK, regardless of geographical location or indeed size.

“Since we launched in 2008, we have worked tirelessly to help our members engage with Royal Mail no matter where they are located, for the good of the industry and we look forward to continuing this vital strategic relationship into the future.”