Market opening timetable

Postcomm was responsible for setting the timetable that led to the opening of the UK mail sector for full competition on 1 January 2006. Since then, licensed postal operators have been able to compete fully in all parts of the mail market, bringing choice to customers for the first time in Royal Mail's 350-year history.

Key dates

2002 
Initial market opening timetable published, suggesting a three-stage approach to liberalisation. Full market opening planned for 2007.
January 2004 
First "Competitive Market Review" published, setting out how the market was developing, explaining trends and asking for views on the main barriers to entry.
First quarter 2004 
Extensive market research survey of mail customers, gathering their views on competition and how it should progress.
5 May 2004 
Consultation letter issued to stakeholders, asking for views on the state of the market and on barriers to entry, as well as the prospects for further competition.
May-September 2004 
Discussions with a variety of stakeholders around the UK, including Royal Mail, Postwatch, postal operators, mail customers and postal sector trade unions.
20 September 2004 
Revised market opening proposals published.
September - December 2004 
Further discussions on market opening with stakeholders around the UK.
20 December 2004 
Deadline for responses to our revised market opening proposals.
18 February 2005
Decision to bring forward full market opening to 1 January 2006. 
1 January 2006 
Full market opening.