Standards retailers can expect from publishers and wholesalers for retailers are to be enhanced with a new Press Distribution Charter.

The Charter, created by Press Distribution Forum (PDF), aims to improve services for retailers and will be published on 22 March.

It was updated using retailer feedback including the direct involvement of PDF member the NFRN. According to a statement from the Forum, the updates strengthen the Charter and simplify the process for retailers to raise complaints.

Currently, stores must go through a three-stage complaints process to raise an issue, starting with an informal discussion and culminating in independent arbitration.

In December, sources confirmed to Better Retailing that work on the new charter was underway, and that PDF members including news and magazine publishers, distributors, news wholesalers and trade groups including the NFRN held a series of meetings, with sources claiming there were up to 72 suggested changes to what is currently a 12-page document.

Changes suggested included updates to paper record-keeping and making it easier for retailers to claim money back due to late deliveries and missing credits.

The new Charter will be its third edition.

Better Retailing has reached out to the Forum for comment on the changes.