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RoyalMail's Performance Under Scrutiny as CEO Apologizes to Parliament

Financial Times Companies •
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Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský, CEO of EP Group, apologized to UK lawmakers for Royal Mail's poor performance during a rare parliamentary appearance. EP Group paid £5.3bn for Royal Mail's parent company in 2024. Křetínský expressed regret over late deliveries, stating only 74.9% of first-class letters were on time this year, falling far short of the 93% target. MPs highlighted that 219 million letters are expected to arrive late, impacting national life.

The group recently returned to adjusted profit after three years, driven by automation and locker deliveries, but faces criticism over adapting to online shopping and strained worker relations. USO reform is needed, Křetínský said, rejecting unconditional commitments to improve service. The Communication Workers Union described chaotic conditions, denying workers prioritize parcels over letters, though Křetínský saw no evidence. He affirmed the company's future, stating: 'I truly believe it has a future and deserves a future.'.