03/09/2009 - Post offices must be 'transformed'
An industry group believes post offices should become "small business hubs", offering services such as banking, to secure the future of the branches.
The Federation of Small Businesses says the Government must help "transform" post offices, establishing a business desk in every branch able to offer advice on banking, insurance and other services.
FSB chairman John Wright explained: "Post Offices are at the heart of many communities and act not only as a place to send invoices or to collect parcels, but as somewhere for small firms to network.
"However, small firms are not being given a fully operational service and are severely let down by the lack of business services available. Making post offices into small business hubs -including dedicated business desks and a full range of financial services - will not only ensure the survival of the country's post offices, but also the communities that they serve.
"The Government has committed to the importance of sustaining local communities and must now step up and support the Post Office to become a small business hub."
Copyright © Press Association 2009
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