In a historic move, Danish postal service PostNord is set to discontinue letter delivery across Denmark by the end of 2025, marking the end of a service that has been part of the country's fabric for over 400 years. The decision comes as a result of a dramatic shift in consumer behavior letters have fallen from 1.4 billion at the start of the century to just 110 million last year, driven by the rapid adoption of digital communication methods.
PostNord will remove approximately 1,500 mailboxes nationwide, with the last letters scheduled for delivery by December 29. The change is part of a broader transition as more Danes opt for digital alternatives; while 95% already use digital mail services, roughly 271,000 citizens still depend on traditional postal deliveries for essential communications such as hospital appointments and government notices.
The move will impact the company’s workforce in Denmark, where about 4,600 employees are employed. Of these, around 1,500 are at risk of losing their jobs, though approximately 700 may be offered new roles within the organization. Meanwhile, PostNord will continue to operate its letter services in Sweden.
Critics argue that the decision, accelerated by increased VAT on mail and the opening of the postal market to competition, could disproportionately affect vulnerable groups and residents in remote areas. As Denmark further embraces digitalization, the government and PostNord are under pressure to ensure that all citizens maintain access to vital communications during the transition.
