Last month, An Post announced a range of price increases that came into effect at the start of February. Photograph: GettyWe have long championed small Irish businesses on this page and have frequently highlighted the importance and the benefits of shopping locally, so we were alarmed when alerted to a dramatic increase in delivery charges imposed by An Post. As you many be aware, last month An Post announced a range of price increases that came into effect at the start of February. She said many creative enterprises “really want to keep their shipping Irish, but the numbers are pushing them towards foreign‑owned couriers and online brokers”. She added that the price hike and the pressure it placed on small businesses was “especially painful for those relying on their local post office as their only realistic shipping access point.

Source: The Irish Times February 17, 2026 15:00 UTC