Logistics News

Post office confirms long term commitment to perishables

Acting CEO apologises for uncertainty, thanks ASBFEO Bilson for his help

 

Australia Post has sought to put any lingering concern that it might withdraw from perishable goods transport finally to bed.

The issue flared in April, when the federal government-owned enterprise said “complex food safety and regulatory requirements” meant it could no longer provide the service.

It was the first test of the new Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) Bruce Billson, who stepped in to mediate the issue.

Billson said he was delighted Australia Post will continue perishable goods delivery for small and family businesses across the country, particularly in rural and regional areas.

“This announcement will bring sighs of relief and renewed enthusiasm for producers who can continue to build their businesses with a reliable fulfilment partner and delight even more customers into the future,” he added.

 


Read the ASBFEO’s offer to help Australia Post with perishables issues, here


Australia Post said its commitment to shipping perishable goods nationally was now “long-term”.

It said that the organisation had since “conducted a thorough review of the industry and consulted with customers who are small business food producers”, on the support required to continue shipping perishable goods across the country.

The review also covered consultation with key industry bodies and experts, and Australia Post will update relevant regulators of the outcomes.

Acting group CEO and MD Rodney Boys said the announcement provides certainty to many businesses who rely heavily on Australia Post to ship their produce to customers.

“We understand it’s critical for businesses to meet growing consumer demands for home delivered food and groceries, and Australia Post remains fully committed to supporting both our customers and consumers with the ongoing carriage of food through our network,” Boys said.

“We recognise and apologise for the uncertainty felt by some customers as this review took place.

“The transportation of food in Australia is complex and highly-regulated and we have moved as quickly as possible to provide a clear promise to our customers that there will be no change to how we support them.”

“Our customers will be aware that for some types of food, our ambient temperature network will not always be suitable.

“We continue to encourage our customers to consider using appropriately insulated packaging and additional temperature control devices to help maintain freshness and help ensure the food is in a good condition when it arrives.” 

“I would like to thank the Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson for working with Australia Post and his assistance in helping us reach this outcome in delivering a long-term, sustainable solution to support this growing eCommerce industry.”

 

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