Retailers affected by the closure of Smiths News’ Pass My Parcel service say they have been left in the dark and fearing lost trade, despite being told it is ‘business as usual’ until they hear otherwise.

Following a ‘very disappointing’ financial performance, Smiths News revealed last week it would wind down its associated network of retailers, as discussions take place for an effective withdrawal.

Les Wood from L&J News in Greater Manchester, told RN he risks his store’s reputation being damaged.   

“This is a footfall driver for my store and has given us access to a whole new level of customers,” he said. “All of a sudden I am facing not being able to offer the service. I don’t think retailers have been considered.”

Weston-super-Mare retailer Ray Monelle said a lack of communication from Smiths News meant he had felt forced to investigate alternative suppliers to protect his trade from the service. “Pass My Parcel brings in £10 to £15 for me a week, and any loss of turnover is bad. I have scheduled meetings next week with PayPoint and Collect+ to secure a different service,” he said. 

However, NFRN head of news Brian Murphy told members to expect financial support.

“We are working with Smiths News to make sure members get all monies due to them. We will assist any retailers who had benefited from being a parcel shop and want to continue, by helping to make them aware of alternative suppliers,” he said.

Meanwhile, Gary Winter, parcel services director at PayPoint, has encouraged retailers to contact alternative suppliers, amid predictions of further market changes.

He told RN: “We were disappointed by Connect Group’s decision to close the Pass My Parcel business. It is becoming harder and harder to run a standalone parcel click and collect service successfully. We’re already opening our Collect+ service to other carriers and brands and, in the current market, we expect more consolidation to take place.”

Read more: Smiths News to close Pass My Parcel