The Greetings Card Industry Needs You!
The UK greetings card industry has long been a significant part of British culture, reflecting the nation's affection for personal, tangible expressions of love and connection. Despite challenges such as digital alternatives and economic fluctuations, the industry has demonstrated resilience and adaptability.
The UK spends 1.51bn on greetings cards every year, with 94% of us buying in the sector - and they are only becoming more popular, with more and more younger people sending cards than ever.
Brits spend £1.51bn on greetings - PG Buzz
The Power of a Card in Supporting Someone Through a Difficult Time
Greeting cards serve as more than mere conveyors of messages; they are tangible tokens of empathy, love, and support. During challenging periods, receiving a physical card can provide a profound sense of connection and comfort. Unlike digital messages that can be fleeting, a card offers a lasting reminder of someone's care and concern.
That’s precisely why we have created LoveLossDiscoballs. After so much loss - and experiencing the tragedy that can happen when someone is suffering in silence - we realised just how much those small, thoughtful moments matter.
The act of sending a card requires thoughtfulness - selecting the right design, penning a personal message, and physically posting it. This process displays to the recipient that they are valued and loved. For individuals facing hardships such as illness, loss, or loneliness, a card can be a beacon of hope, reminding them they are not alone.
The physicality of a card allows recipients to revisit the sentiments expressed, providing ongoing solace. In an increasingly digital world. The tactile nature of a greetings card stands out, offering a personal touch that electronic communications often lack - we still have cards proudly on display in our home from many years ago, and they’re a wonderful reminder of how someone made us feel loved.
GCA Campaign on Proposed Royal Mail Changes
But now, Royal Mail wants to cut deliveries. Ofcom has proposed scrapping Saturday post and reducing the more affordable second-class deliveries to every other day. That means that cards won’t always arrive when they need to - right before a big anniversary, on a hard day or just when someone could really do with a reminder that they’re loved.
The Greeting Card Association (GCA) has been actively campaigning against these proposed changes.
To address these concerns, they have launched a petition urging the government to require parliamentary scrutiny for any changes. The petition highlights that any changes should be contingent upon comprehensive assessments of the social and economic implications, ensuring that the service continues to meet the needs of all users.
For more information on the GCA's campaign and to sign in the petition, please visit:
Let’s get this to 10,000 signatures!
Final Thoughts
The UK greeting card industry remains a vital component of personal connection, offering comfort and support during challenging times. However, proposed changes to postal services pose potential challenges to this cherished tradition. Engaging with initiatives like the GCA's campaign is crucial to preserving the accessibility and reliability of our wonderful industry in the future - and to keep our connections being made just when they are needed.