The First Mailing Co Ltd

02/09/2026

We published our thoughts on Royal Mail's proposed price increases recently – and the response has been interesting.

The piece asks some direct questions: where is the additional revenue going, why isn't there a stronger industry response, and whether the current model is actually working for the businesses that depend on the postal network.

If you missed it, it's worth a read – and we'd genuinely like to know what others in the industry think.

The proposed Royal Mail price increases are nothing short of scandalous. And we need to ask why? Is it time to rethink the postal service?

26/08/2026

"What does a mailing actually cost?"

Most people answer with a postage rate. But after 25+ years in physical mail, we'd argue that's the wrong starting point.

The real cost of a mailing isn't the price of a stamp. It's the quality of your data, how well-targeted the audience is, the production and distribution route you choose - and, ultimately, what the mailing achieves.

A 50p mailing that gets no response isn't better value than a £1 mailing that wins a customer.

In our latest article, we look at:

✉️ Why not all mail is "marketing" (subscriptions, statements and renewals all play by different rules)
✉️ How data cleansing can cut costs and improve response at the same time
✉️ Why the cheapest postal route isn't always the right one
✉️ How mail and digital are working together, not competing - JICMAIL's latest figures show 76.3% of mail is read, looked at or glanced at, and 56% of mail-prompted purchases are completed online

Read the full article on our website.
https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/2026/08/21/the-economics-of-physical-mail/

19/08/2026

Some of Royal Mail's proposed price increases reach up to 35%. At a time when businesses are already under cost pressure, that demands a response.

We've published our thoughts on this - and we haven't held back.

We believe in the future of physical mail. It's tangible, trusted, and for many organisations in financial services, healthcare, utilities and regulated sectors, it isn't optional. But if prices keep rising, volumes fall, and prices have to rise again to compensate, we risk a cycle that accelerates the very decline everyone says they want to avoid.

The frontline postal workforce deserves enormous credit - this isn't about them. The harder questions are about where the value is actually going, why collective industry voices aren't responding more forcefully, and whether Ofcom is doing enough when customers have so little choice but to use the network.

We think it's time for a much more open conversation - between Government, Ofcom, Royal Mail and the businesses that depend on the postal service - about price, performance, accountability and the future of mail in this country.

Read the full article and let us know what you think.

https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/2026/08/17/royal-mail-price-increases-who-is-really-paying-the-price/

06/07/2026

Postcard mailings can look simple. The compliance side is anything but.

For Royal Mail Mailmark Economy rates, postcard-style items still need to meet the correct machinable mail specification - including minimum thickness requirements. A postcard that's too thin, too flexible, poorly addressed or incorrectly laid out can quickly become non-compliant, risking delays, surcharges or an unexpected jump in postal cost.

We help customers get this right before production starts - checking format, stock, print layout, address positioning and Mailmark requirements so nothing catches you out further down the line.

Compliance isn't an afterthought. It's part of good mailing design.

Get in touch to discuss your next campaign: https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/postage/
Or call us on 01480 450661

03/06/2026

Postage is usually the biggest line item in a direct mail budget. It's also where the smartest savings are hiding.

The right combination of formats, weights and delivery routes can reduce UK postage costs by up to 60% - without compromising on reach or impact. But those savings only come when postage is built into the campaign from the start, not bolted on at the end.

We work closely with Royal Mail and DSA networks to find the most efficient options for every campaign, balancing cost, quality and delivery timelines. Whether that's taking advantage of Mailmark discounts, optimising pack weights, or choosing the right format for your audience - every decision adds up.

The result: more of your budget available for creative, print and personalisation. Campaigns that land on time and perform as planned.

Postage strategy isn't a logistics afterthought. It's part of how smart campaigns are built.

Find out more: https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/postage/
Or call us on 01480 450661

20/05/2026

Your packaging says something about your brand before your message is even read.

Paper wrapping is fully recyclable, made from recycled or sustainably sourced paper, and lightweight enough to help keep postage costs down. With Mailmark discounts available too, it's one of the most cost-effective formats for high-volume mailings.

But sustainability isn't the only reason to choose it. The wrap itself is prime marketing real estate. Full-colour printing, personalised messaging, unique QR codes linking to tailored content - your audience is engaging with your brand before they've even opened the pack.

We handle everything in-house: printing, wrapping, fulfilment and postage. One team, one process, no juggling suppliers.

If you're planning your next campaign and want a format that works harder on every front, paper wrapping is worth a serious look.

Learn more: https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/paper-wrapping/
Or call us on 01480 450661

13/05/2026

Direct mail works best when it’s part of a bigger, joined-up strategy. Many of our clients combine physical mail with digital channels, driving recipients to landing pages, websites, or online offers.

QR codes, personalised URLs, and trackable vouchers bridge the offline and online worlds, giving measurable results and clearer insights into what drives engagement and conversion. Mail primes the audience, digital captures the action, and together they create campaigns that are harder to ignore and easier to measure.

We help clients plan integrated campaigns that harness both channels for maximum impact, ensuring every pound invested delivers measurable ROI.

Learn more on our website.
https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/digital-marketing/

06/05/2026

Personalisation starts the moment mail hits the doormat, not when the envelope is opened. Variable text and graphics printed directly onto paper wrap or envelopes mean every recipient can see a message tailored to them from the outside in.

From names and locations to membership renewal dates, lifestyle preferences, or holiday interests, personalisation makes campaigns feel relevant and considered. This relevance drives engagement, improves response rates, and makes mail more memorable.

In a world where attention is scarce, personalised mail stands out, connecting with audiences in ways generic campaigns cannot.

Visit our website to learn more.
https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/personalisation/

29/04/2026

Some campaigns involve multiple pieces – brochures, leaflets, vouchers, and more. Accuracy is crucial. Our high-speed envelope inserting lines can handle up to seven items per envelope, while hand-fulfilment takes care of irregular formats or special enclosures.

Every item is collated and packed as planned, reducing errors, saving time, and keeping campaigns on schedule. From welcome packs to promotional kits, envelope inserting ensures nothing is missed, and every recipient gets exactly what you intended.

In-house control over the process means campaigns are simpler, more predictable, and ready to make an impact.

Visit our website to learn more.

Envelope inserting by a team of professionals can take the stress out of your direct mailing campaign. Tailor your mailing today.

22/04/2026

Not every mailing is simple, and not every campaign fits into a standard envelope. That’s where expert fulfilment makes a difference.

From complex multi-item packs to irregular formats or bespoke presentations, our team manages every stage – print, packing, inserting, and postage – in-house. High-speed inserting lines handle standard campaigns efficiently, while hand-fulfilment ensures precision when needed.

The result? Campaigns that arrive complete, on time, and looking great, every time. Whether it’s a welcome pack, membership renewal, or multi-item promotion, we take the stress out of fulfilment, so your team can focus on what matters most – results.

Visit our website to get started.
https://www.firstmailing.co.uk/fulfilment