The postal operator said it was “shocked and greatly saddened” by Fastway’s receivership and the impact on its workers, but warned it may not be able to accommodate all additional service requests from new customers at this time.
An Post said its Christmas peak operations had been planned for months, with resources already allocated to meet strong e-commerce demand.
The company said it is instead focusing on helping existing small business customers who already have delivery accounts, advising them to resume their service or use Advantage Card labels through the post office network.
An Post said operations had been planned for months. Stock Image
Today’s News in 90 Seconds – Friday, November 7
It confirmed that parcel volumes are running high and announced it is bringing forward the latest posting date for Christmas deliveries within Ireland and to the UK to December 16.
An Post added that it is working on some additional emergency solutions for businesses but gave no details on whether it would assist those left without delivery options following Fastway’s collapse.
The development follows a warning from the Irish SME Association (ISME) that businesses are being left in limbo as parcels remain stuck in Fastway depots nationwide.
Practicable steps must be taken to protect innocent third parties
As reported by the Irish Independent earlier this week, ISME called on the appointed receivers to release or return goods immediately, saying many firms face mounting financial losses at a critical trading period.
“Goods in transit do not form part of Fastway’s assets and are not subject to the receiver’s charge. Practicable steps must be taken to protect innocent third parties,” ISME CEO Neil McDonnell said.
“These goods belong to small businesses that already operate under extreme cost pressures. Resolution of this issue months from now will be too late for many and could threaten their viability.”
Fastway, one of Ireland’s largest courier networks, entered receivership last week, disrupting deliveries for thousands of small businesses and online retailers.
In response, joint receivers Mark Degnan and Brendan O’Reilly from financial advisory firm Interpath said they are working to manage what they described as a highly complex situation following Fastway’s receivership.
“We understand the significant concern and disruption caused by the receivership of Fastway Couriers and its associated brands, and we are working diligently across all areas of the business to manage what is a highly complex situation in an orderly and fair manner,” they said.
