World Post Day

World Post Day History

World Post Day aims to raise awareness of the critical role postal services play in connecting people and businesses across the globe, fostering communication and delivering essential services with efficiency. By acknowledging the importance of the postal sector and the dedication of postal workers, World Post Day demonstrates the significance of postal services in socio-economic development and helps maintain a solid global postal system.

World Post Day, established by the Universal Postal Union Congress in 1969, has significant relevance to the United Kingdom as one of the pioneer nations in modern postal history. In 1840, the UK introduced the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black, and facilitated the expansion of an efficient and accessible postal system that revolutionised communication. Moreover, the British Postal Museum archive preserves over five centuries of postal developments, providing insights into the rich history of the postal system and its impact on everyday lives in the UK.

In the United Kingdom, World Post Day is observed with various activities, events and awareness campaigns with a focus on the vital role of postal services in everyday life. The Royal Mail, for example, often uses the occasion to highlight their latest initiatives and express gratitude to their employees. Additionally, the British Postal Museum hosts exhibitions, guided tours and interactive experiences, allowing visitors to learn about and celebrate the impact of the postal service on the UK's communication history. World Post Day is celebrated annually on October 9th.

World Post Day facts

• The USPS processes and delivers 472.1 million mail pieces each day.
• Benjamin Franklin was the first Postmaster General.
• The USPS owns the largest civilian vehicle fleet in the world, with over 227,000 vehicles.
• The Post Office introduced pillar boxes (mailboxes) in the UK in the 1850s. The colour scheme, originally green, was changed to the now iconic red in 1874 to make them more visible.
• The UK Post Office introduced the first-ever postage stamp, known as the Penny Black, in 1840. It was the first adhesive stamp in the world and it allowed letters of up to 14 grams to be delivered at a flat rate of one penny.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Post Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Post Day

• Explore the history of the British postal system, learn about the development of mail communication, and take a ride on the Mail Rail, a subterranean train that once transported letters and parcels across London.
• In the spirit of celebrating postal services, send handwritten letters or postcards to friends, family members, or even strangers, sharing appreciation, memories, or exciting news.