CohereOne: Matt, postal affairs seem to be a hot-button issue these days. What’s been happening in the industry?
Matt Jensen: Absolutely. Since 2021, we’ve had eight postal rate increases, including another one set to take effect this July. The compounding effect of these hikes has far outpaced the Consumer Price Index and caused real disruption for many mailers. While Midland isn’t a mail service provider, we saw a clear need to step up and offer leadership and insight in this space.
CohereOne: What role do you play in supporting mailers through all this?
Matt Jensen: At Midland, I serve as our Postal Affairs Manager. I keep our internal teams up to speed on postal rates, promotions, regulations, and legislative updates. I’m also available to support our clients directly—whether that’s providing guidance, answering questions, or sharing updates. Beyond that, I’m heavily involved in industry groups like the American Commerce Marketing Association (ACMA), where I chair the postal committee and represent Midland at their forum and in meetings on Capitol Hill.
CohereOne: That’s great advocacy work. What recent developments should our clients have on their radar?
Matt Jensen: A few key things:
- June 9: The Postal Regulatory Commission issued an order for the USPS to move to just one rate increase per fiscal year. The case is still under review, so we’re watching closely.
- June 24: Some big industry voices—Mike Plunkett from PostCom/ACMA and Jim Cochrane from the Package Shippers Association—testified before the House Government Operations Committee about the USPS’s path forward.
- July 13: The new postage rates take effect. On average, we’re looking at an 8.51% increase for Marketing Mail Letters and 9.61% for Marketing Mail Flats.
- July 14: David Steiner will officially step into the role of Postmaster General.
- October 1: The new Catalog Insights Promotion begins. It’s a great opportunity for catalogers to save 10% on postage—and potentially 12% if they take advantage of add-ons.
CohereOne: That Catalog Insights promotion could be a game-changer. How can clients make the most of it?
Matt Jensen: Planning ahead is key. If catalogers align their campaign strategy with the requirements of the promotion, they can lock in significant savings. And of course, I’m happy to help clients navigate those details or determine eligibility. Just reach out!
CohereOne: Thanks, Matt. We appreciate the work you’re doing for the industry—and for helping our clients stay ahead.