The Communications’ Workers Union has raised the prospect of more strike action from Royal Mail workers. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that companies like Amazon are looking to alternate couriers — an especially important consideration as we head towards December. Will they be tempted to return to Royal Mail once the strikes have ended?

Part of the union’s problem is their lack of political support, as the leadership of all three main parties are in favour of moves to sell part of the company. They have been less than candid about the reasons for this, but there remains a consensus that will be tough to break.

As public irritation with the strikes grows, more people will find it easier to contemplate changes to Royal Mail’s structure. This process will snowball as private providers start picking up more of Royal Mail’s old business. Whatever the exact result, it’s unlikely to please the Communications’ Workers Union.