Royal Mail takeover: Potential benefits and risks to the UK’s National Postal Service

The Royal Mail, a 508-year-old British institution, is on the brink of a significant transformation as its board has agreed in principle to a takeover bid from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky. Valued at £5 billion, the deal, which is set to be voted on by shareholders in September 2024, has sparked a heated debate over the future of the UK’s national postal service.

Historical significance and current context

Royal Mail, employing around 150,000 people, has long been a cornerstone of British life.