The 33rd Conference on Postal and Delivery Economics, jointly organised by the Centre for a Digital Society and the Universal Postal Union (UPU), took place from 21 to 23 May 2025 in Limassol, Cyprus.
Over the course of three days, more than a hundred participants gathered to discuss how postal services can be built and adapted to function efficiently in an increasingly digitalised world and a rapidly evolving market. As letter volumes continue to decline and parcel demand grows, the rationale for what should be guaranteed, to whom, and how is being redefined. Today’s postal and delivery services must respond to users’ changing needs and behaviours, which have been fundamentally transformed by digital technologies and shifting lifestyles—making it evident that the traditional model of universal postal service is in need of a modern overhaul.
At the same time, even as digital communication channels expand, the physical presence of postal services continues to play a crucial role (particularly for vulnerable and geographically dispersed communities) acting as the last in-person service point in many regions.
“As the world is more interconnected, the postal and delivery sector becomes not just a service, but a strategic asset for economies and communications,” noted Petros Galides, Deputy Commissioner of Communications at the Office of the Commissioner of Communications, Chairman of the European Mediterranean Regulators Group, and a long-standing member of the postal community.
“It is no longer just about regulating what is postal, it is about re-thinking how platforms and markets integrate into the sector and ensure fair competition and accountability. We do not need more regulation, we do not need less regulation either, we need the right regulation. (...)”, he added.
Throughout the conference, key explored themes included how to pursue meaningful postal sector reforms, balance the Universal Service Obligation with changing consumer expectations, address cybersecurity challenges, promote sustainable delivery practices, and unlock the untapped potential of in-person postal networks and financial services.
In addition to discussions on regulatory frameworks—many of which have not kept pace with market developments, including in the EU—this year’s Conference placed special emphasis on the evolving role of postal financial services. Postal networks are uniquely positioned to serve individuals in areas where traditional banking infrastructure is lacking. As a result, there is renewed interest in rethinking the concept of a 'postal bank' and how postal operators can continue to support access to cash and basic financial services.
Running in parallel with the conference, an ‘Innovation Challenge’ (organised by the Universal Postal Union in partnership with the Centre for a Digital Society) brought together global experts from diverse fields. They collaborated on innovative, practical solutions that leverage artificial intelligence and big data within the postal ecosystem —focusing on digital wallets, the circular economy, and the modernisation of the Universal Service Obligation—which they presented on the final day.
“Many important events are knocking at our door. Important reforms and market changes are happening in the EU, in the US, and worldwide. Our historic Postal Conference, representing academics, regulators, and stakeholders, must be ready to continue the discussion engaging in a sector with a broad scope for development,” said Pier Luigi Parcu, Director of the Centre for a Digital Society, during the closing remarks.
The next edition of this international event will take place in Cologne in May 2026. Some of the papers presented in Cyprus will be considered for inclusion in a collective book published annually by Springer. Books from previous editions can be accessed here.