Local retailers are being encouraged to work with Guernsey Post and its RockShopper scheme.
Political concerns over the scheme were aired last week – with some deputies questioning why a States-owned utility is promoting off-island shopping.
Deputies David de Lisle, Simon Vermeulen, and John Gollop were among those raising the issue in the States meeting, as they debated Guernsey Post’s Annual Accounts, for the year ending March 2024.
Deputy de Lisle – who owns shops in town – dubbed it ‘RockStopper’ and said it was “undermining efforts to boost the local retail industry”.
Deputy Vermeulen said islanders need no encouragement to shop off-island while Deputy Gollop described it as “odd” that a public entity is encouraging consumers to do that.
In response Guernsey Post has reiterated that it wants to work with local retailers, not against them.
Chief Executive at Guernsey Post, Steve Sheridan said his company is also working against various challenges.
“Like many commercial companies and organisations, Guernsey Post has had no choice but to adapt its business model in response to the significant strategic challenges and opportunities that the digital era has created, with traditional postal volumes falling 50% in the past 10 years alone,” said Mr Sheridan.
“Identifying opportunities to diversify our existing revenue streams, with a strong focus on developing our growing parcel business in line with consumer demand, has been a fundamental part of our strategy as reflected with the recent launch of The RockShopper and MyUK Address initiatives.
“The RockShopper Directory and social media channels are not just targeted at off-island retailers, but importantly also provide an opportunity for local retailers to expand their online offerings and presence. Local retailers can access our specially discounted rates for on island postal deliveries, and provide a tailor-made alternative distribution channel, with the intention to absolutely encourage Guernsey residents to use their services.”