The Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) has welcomed confirmation that retailers will not face an additional carriage charge when Smiths News begins distributing News UK titles from 8 July next year.
In a letter to its new customers, Smiths News addressed immediate concerns retailers currently supplied by InPost could face two sets of carriage charges when it takes over distribution of The Sun and The Times.
Consistent concerns
The Fed has consistently raised concerns about the potential impact of dual carriage charges on independent news retailers, making it clear that they should not be expected to pay twice for the same distribution service. It warned additional costs could threaten the viability of newspaper sales and accelerate the decline in the number of retail stockists.
The Fed’s national president, Hemanshu Patel, said: “I’m pleased that Smiths News has listened to the concerns we’ve consistently raised about the prospect of a second carriage charge.
“We’ve made it clear this was simply not acceptable and that failing to address it could accelerate the decline in newspaper stockists and sales. This confirmation is therefore welcome news for independent retailers and demonstrates the importance of making sure retailers’ concerns are heard.”
Hurdle overcome
Craig Etchells, the Fed’s national vice president and chair of its news operations committee, added: “This is another hurdle overcome, and for anyone in doubt, this news reconfirms that Go National will be happening. It’s important that retailers have certainty as the industry prepares for these significant changes to newspaper distribution.”
The Go National project will see Smiths News expand its distribution network to supply thousands of additional retailers across Britain, with further agreements involving other publishers and magazine distributors expected.
While welcoming the announcement, the Fed stressed further clarity is still needed as additional distribution agreements come into effect.
Smiths News has indicated it will continue reviewing its charging arrangements as newspaper volumes transfer, with any potential delivery service charge expected no later than January 2028.
Confirmation required
Brian Murphy, the Fed’s news and operations director, also said: “We remain very mindful that confirmation will still be required as other contracts commence. The Fed will continue to engage fully with the supply chain to ensure that the interests of independent retailers are protected and that any requirement for dual carriage charges from 2028 is avoided wherever possible.”
Retailers affected by the changes are being asked to provide their business details to Smiths News at this link by 14 November, 2026 to help ensure a smooth transition.
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