The Postal Service continued to build on the strength of its Priority Mail product line in 2014. We looked creatively at ways to “put our best box forward” and highlight our expedited shipping options, as well as enable businesses to promote their brands in tandem with USPS. For the holidays, the Postal Service introduced limited-edition Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes that featured a red ribbon and bow printed on them. For this effort, 6.5 million boxes were distributed through USPS retail offices. In addition to adding a touch of holiday cheer to packages, customers who used the boxes got improved tracking, day-specific delivery information and up to $50 of free insurance.
In Spring 2014, the Postal Service teamed with Sony Pictures to promote Priority Mail and the nationwide May 2, 2014, release of the motion picture, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2.” There were 17.5 million Spider-Man-themed Flat Rate boxes distributed to USPS retail locations during the promotion. Other elements of the campaign included a television commercial, retail posters and displays and social media. The campaign also highlighted courageous acts by Postal Service employees.
The Postal Service continued to offer customized and specialized packaging to customers who met certain volume and revenue requirements. In FY2014, approximately 40 new customers were brought into the customized program. These customers must generate a minimum of $250,000 in postage each year. Customers work with USPS to incorporate their logo, or other customized printing, on USPS-supplied packaging.
Specialized packaging consists of a predetermined set of USPS-supplied expedited packaging items that have proven popular with customers. This program for new customers with $50,000 in annual revenue grew by more than 40 percent over FY2013.
