ACM: intended combination of postal networks PostNL and Sandd requires a license
The Hague - The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has announced that the intended combination of the postal networks of PostNL and Sandd requires a license. This decision concludes the first phase of the approval process. PostNL and Sandd will now file their request for such a license with the ACM.
Reliable, accessible and affordable
PostNL and Sandd announced their intention to combine both postal networks on 25 February 2019. The transaction would assure companies and consumers in the Netherlands of a future postal delivery service that remains reliable; accessible, also in rural areas and declining regions in the Netherlands; and affordable for senders of mail, while continuing to meet the high-quality standards they expect. Consolidation will also bring more job security for thousands of mail deliverers and makes it possible to address the declining postal market in a socially responsible manner.
Regulatory clearance
The ACM has the authority to review the aspects of the transaction relating to competition law. The second phase of the ACM review process has a legal term of a maximum of 13 weeks, with a possible extension in case the ACM requires further clarifications. A judicious and swift approval process is important for the continuity of the postal service and employment in the postal sector.
About PostNL
We are PostNL, here for everyone, bringing it all together for 225 years. With an extensive network of nearly 5,800 PostNL points, 11,000 letterboxes, and over 900 automated, also open to various carriers, along with millions of users of the PostNL app, we're always close by. We aim to be everyone's favourite deliverer by making it as easy as possible to send and receive parcels and mail. With nearly 34,000 colleagues working with us, we are part of society. We offer a range of services, including mail and parcel delivery, logistic e-commerce solutions, and cross-border solutions. On an average weekday in the Benelux, we deliver 1.1 million parcels and 6.9 million letters. We are commitment to customer satisfaction, providing opportunities for our employees, and generating value for our stakeholders through growth, digitalisation, and sustainability.
We optimise and support our physical networks through the use of smart digital solutions and introduce new propositions that add value for our customers. And aim for sustainable employment relationships by being a good employer to all people working with and for us. We focus on sustainability, making many journeys on foot and by bicycle, increasingly using cleaner fuels and electric vehicles, and offering innovative city logistics. PostNL N.V. is a publicly traded company with a turnover of €3.2 billion in 2023, 62% of which e-commerce related.