New analysis from Consumer Scotland shows younger people are among the most frequent users of Post Office services, highlighting the continuing importance of the network.
Consumer Scotland’s survey of more than 1000 consumers found 18-24‑year‑olds were the most regular users of the Post Office, with 70% reporting they had used at least one post office service once a month or more over the past year. This compares with 60% of 25-34‑year‑olds and 51% of people aged 75 and over.
The data suggests younger people are using post offices for a large range of services including sending and receiving parcels, paying bills, collecting benefits and withdrawing cash. Younger age groups also used the post office to access government services.
Separate data has highlighted the growing role of online marketplaces, including Vinted and Depop - in driving an increase in parcel‑sending.
These usage patterns underline the importance of ensuring the Post Office network continues to meet the expectations of younger consumers as their service needs evolve.
The UK Government recently announced a commitment to maintaining a network of at least 11,500 post offices across the UK – and will also ask post offices to introduce minimum branch standards from the 2026/2027 financial year – one of a series of recommendations made by Consumer Scotland to the government.
Consumer Scotland Head of Post Grace Remmington said:
“Our findings show that younger people are not only regular users of the Post Office, but that they rely on it for a wide range of important services.
“For many younger consumers, the Post Office is a practical point of support that helps them manage everyday tasks such as sending and receiving parcels, accessing financial services such as withdrawing money and dealing with key pieces of administrative paperwork - with key services such as passport and driving licence renewals and making payments for utilities or council tax.
“The growth of online marketplaces like Vinted and Depop has further increased the number of younger people using Post Office branches, as these platforms depend on reliable parcel services for sending and returning items. As their needs continue to evolve, it will be essential the network adapts to reflect how younger people live, shop and manage their lives. Ensuring the Post Office remains relevant and accessible for this generation will be vital to its long‑term sustainability.
“At the same time, it is essential that provision remains accessible and supportive for all age groups. A strong Post Office network must continue to meet the needs of all consumers, regardless of age or circumstance, and provide a reliable place where essential services can be reached locally.”
Consumer Scotland will continue to monitor consumer experiences of postal and administrative services to support a resilient, accessible Post Office network for all.
Background
The future of the post office – Consumer Scotland key findings
The total sample size was 1,037 adults. Fieldwork took place in September 2025. The figures have been weighted by age, gender and region.
Our research showed that for monthly Post Office use:
- The leading group are 18–24-year-olds, with 70% of them using a service at the Post Office at least once a month in the last year
- 60% of 25–34-year-olds and 51% of 75+ year olds reported using the Post Office monthly
- These age groups were generally frequent users of the Post Office, for financial and administrative services as well as postal services