The Federation of Independent Retailers (the Fed) has welcomed confirmation that retailers will not face an additional carriage charge when Smiths News begins distributing News UK titles from 8 July, 2027.
In a letter to its new customers, Smiths News has addressed immediate concerns that retailers currently supplied by InPost could face two sets of carriage charges when Smiths News takes over distribution of The Sun and The Times.
Concerns Over Dual Carriage Charges
The Fed has consistently raised concerns about the potential impact of dual carriage charges on independent news retailers, making it clear that retailers should not be expected to pay twice for the same distribution service. The retail body warned that additional costs could threaten the viability of newspaper sales and accelerate the decline in the number of retail stockists.
Fed national president Hemanshu Patel said: “I am pleased that Smiths News has listened to the concerns we have consistently raised about the prospect of a second carriage charge.
“We have made it clear that this was simply not acceptable and that failing to address it could accelerate the decline in newspaper stockists and sales.
“This confirmation is therefore welcome news for independent retailers and demonstrates the importance of making sure retailers’ concerns are heard.”
Further Clarity Still Needed
Craig Etchells, the Fed’s national vice president and chair of its news operations committee, said: “This is another hurdle overcome, and for anyone in doubt, this news reconfirms that Go National will be happening. It is important that retailers have certainty as the industry prepares for these significant changes to newspaper distribution.”
While welcoming the announcement, the Fed stressed that further clarity is still needed as additional distribution agreements come into effect. Smiths News has indicated that it will continue reviewing its charging arrangements as newspaper volumes transfer, with any potential delivery service charge expected no later than January 2028.
Brian Murphy, the Fed’s news and operations director, said: “We remain very mindful that confirmation will still be required as other contracts commence.
“The Fed will continue to engage fully with the supply chain to ensure that the interests of independent retailers are protected and that any requirement for dual carriage charges from 2028 is avoided wherever possible.”
Go National Project and Next Steps
The Go National project will see Smiths News expand its distribution network to supply thousands of additional retailers across Britain, with further agreements involving other publishers and magazine distributors expected.
Patel added: “Our First Port of Call services are open and available to discuss any concerns or questions that our members may have. We will continue to represent their interests throughout this transition and ensure their concerns are heard.”
Retailers affected by the changes are being asked to provide their business details to Smiths News by 14 November, 2026, through www.smithsnews.co.uk/register-account to help ensure a smooth transition.
