British magazine publishers scramble to deal with possible postal strike

British magazine publishers are scrambling to respond to the impending postal strike, set to occur nationally on Thursday October 22 and Friday 23 (sporadic local stoppages have already begun, particularly in London). The Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) has distributed information to its members about alternative delivery means and a list of service providers should they decide to produce digital editions.

The Royal Mail says that talks continue with the Communications Workers Union (CWU) and national strike action is "not inevitable".

"We are really sorry for the impact and inconvenience the CWU strike action continues to have on customers in London and the further uncertainty the announcement of national industrial action will cause all customers. We are continuing to urge the CWU to call off all strike action and concentrate with us on supporting customers during the Autumn and Christmas peak mail period."

The CWU membership voted for a strike mandate on October 8. On Tuesday 13th the union tabled a proposal that was rejected by Royal Mail managing director Mark Higson.

"Our offer included the opportunity for a three year deal that would bring stability to customers, business and the workforce," said Dave Ward, CWU deputy general secretary. "This industry is crying out for stability and yet Royal Mail rejects out of hand a genuine attempt to deliver it. We reiterate that offer today and ask that Royal Mail look again. Making progress on some key elements of that offer would mean an immediate strike could be avoided."