Copenhagen, Denmark – Denmark is preparing to bring down the curtain on one of its oldest public services, announcing the end of
its paper letter delivery service after nearly four centuries of continuous operation.
This is a step that reflects the profound digital transformation taking place in Danish society.
The last paper letter is scheduled to be delivered on December 30, 2024, marking the end of an era that began in 1624.
Sharp decline
Postnord, the postal operator in Denmark and Sweden, announced the elimination of approximately 1,500 jobs within Denmark.
And the removal of 1500 traditional red mailboxes from the streets,
The decision was justified by the sharp decline in demand for paper letters.
This is in contrast to the continued rise in e-commerce and parcel delivery services.
Paper letter market
Kim Pedersen, the company’s executive vice president, said the decision was difficult after a long history for Danish Post.
But it has become inevitable in light of citizens’ increasing reliance on digital services.
He pointed out that the paper market is no longer economically viable.
The company confirmed that the volume of messages has decreased by more than 90% over the past twenty-five years.
Public auctions
As part of the end-of-service program, Postnord plans to sell its iconic red mailboxes at public auctions,
amid expectations that prices for the historically valuable boxes will rise.
It also announced that the mailing service in Sweden would continue,
with compensation for holders of unused Danish stamps for a limited period.
80 million messages
Despite this shift, paper letters will not disappear entirely from Denmark,
as the private company DAO will expand its operations starting from January 1, 2025.
With expectations that the number of messages delivered will rise from
about 30 to 80 million messages within one year, albeit at a higher cost and with different procedures.
It has sentimental value
In a striking paradox, recent studies indicate signs of a renewed interest among young people in paper letters.
Research shows that the 18-34 age group sends traditional messages at higher rates than others.
This is considered a conscious choice that carries emotional value in an era of rapid digital communication.
