News -
Post Office details proposed franchise plans for two Directly Managed Branches in partnership with Ryman
The Post Office has today (30 July) provided details on its proposed franchise plans for two Directly Managed Branches which are operated by the Post Office.
As part of its commitment to deliver a ‘New Deal for Postmasters’, the Post Office had previously announced on 8 April that it was moving to a fully franchised network.
Over recent weeks, the Post Office has published the proposed details for a significant number of Directly Managed Branches to be operated – by independent postmaster scale business partners - from the same premises where they are currently located whilst the long-term arrangements for the branch are finalised. (See notes to editor 1)
Today is the first time the Post Office has published proposed off-site franchise plans for Directly Managed Branches to be operated by Ryman.
Two Post Office Directly Managed Branches – Broadway (Westminster) and Kensington – will, subject to consultation, be operated from a nearby Ryman store in the Autumn.
Neil Brocklehurst, CEO at Post Office, said:
“Moving to a fully franchised network is one part of enabling the Post Office to deliver a ‘New Deal for Postmasters’, helping to create a long-term, sustainable future for the Post Office.
“We’re delighted that Ryman want to expand their network of Post Offices and see them as an integral part of their business. This year is the 30thanniversary of our partnership with Ryman under Theo Paphitis and we will continue to engage closely with them about how we can work together as two businesses determined to ensure millions of people each week have access to our vital cash and banking, parcel carrier and foreign exchange services.
“Our proposed franchise plans will mean customers can continue to access the same Post Office products and services at nearby location whilst at the same time being able to shop for stationery, office storage and many other items at the new location helping to support the high street.”
Theo Paphitis, Ryman Owner and Chairman, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be expanding our long-standing partnership with the Post Office by welcoming two new branches into the Ryman family. As a business with over 130 years of heritage on the UK high street, we understand the vital role Post Office services play in communities.
“At the heart of Ryman is a passion for serving customers, and we’re excited to bring that same commitment to Broadway and Kensington. These new locations reflect our shared mission with the Post Office: to keep essential services accessible while supporting the sustainability of the high street.
“This marks another important step in our 30-year journey together and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the Post Office to serve our communities with the quality service both our organisations are famous for.”
Ryman
Ryman is a leading high street heritage retailer in the UK, established in 1893, known for providing customers across the UK with a comprehensive range of stationery, office supplies, technology, and furniture, as well as a wide range of in store services covering all your printing needs, personalisation and business services with a long history of parcel services and money transfers.
Ryman has been operating Post Offices since 1991, and was bought by Retail Entrepreneur and small business champion, Theo Paphitis, in 1995.
The company prides itself on hand-selecting its products and delivering quality, service, and value to individuals, businesses, and offices, highlighted by the numerous awards they have won with the Post Office, including best branch in 2016 and Best Customer Service Provider in 2022.
Currently offering Post Office services from 8 locations as a trusted partner over the last 30 years:
- Abergavenny PO - Cibi Walk, Abergavenny
- Grays Inn PO - Grays Inn Rd, London
- Newcastle Under Lyme PO - High St, Newcastle Under Lyme
- Regent St PO - Regent Street St James, London
- London Rd PO - London Rd, Southampton
- Southampton Row PO - Southampton Row, London
- Spinning Gate PO - Spinning Gate Shopping Centre, Leigh
- Strand PO - Strand, London
Ryman is delighted to be moving forward with two potential new Post Offices in 2025 and looks forward to continuing its strong relationship with the Post Office and continue to review opportunities to support communities in new areas, where viable.
ENDS
Notes to Editor 1
Announcement for first tranche - Post Office Corporate
Announcement for second tranche - Post Office Corporate
Announcement for third tranche - Post Office Corporate
