Post offices in minimarkets and cafes
The blueprint for the transition of the Hellenic Post (ELTA) to a new era has shifted from a closure plan to a transformation plan, under the supervision of the Growthfund, concerning 158 post offices around the country. These are the post offices that, just two months ago, were on the list of a total of 204 whose operation would be permanently suspended.
At the core of the solution is the tried-and-tested model of the so-called agencies or shop-in-shop, with certain asterisks. Minister of Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis referred to that during Thursday’s parliamentary briefing.
Local stores are being sought for 113 of the 158 points, such as minimarkets, cafes or bookstores, which could also host ELTA services, by placing relevant signage in the dedicated space. This model is already operating in some areas, enabling professionals to earn additional income, while citizens continue to be served close to their homes.
However, postal agencies offer a limited range of services: They do not provide specialized financial transactions and are mainly limited to bill payments and pension payments. “Only if there is a nearby banking institution or ATM and only if an agent is found will the reorganization proceed,” noted Pierrakakis.
The first asterisk refers to 17 ELTA branches for which it was decided that they will continue operating as they are, since they cover critical banking transaction needs in the areas where they are located.
The second asterisk refers to the remaining 28, which will eventually close for good, as an ELTA Courier branch operates within 100 to 200 meters.
The strategic planning of the long-suffering public company, which continues to face serious financial problems, is moving in this direction. The goal, as stated by the interim CEO of ELTA, Marios Kalogeras-Tempos, is to exit the crisis through the utilization of the significant real estate assets the organization has.
The immediately exploitable properties include a property in Kaisariani, with an estimated commercial value of 6 million euros, in which a large hotel group and Premia – that aims to convert it into student halls – have already expressed an interest.
Kathimerini
