The parcel distribution firm Evri has announced that deliveries in Abingdon and Oxford remain unaffected following Old Windsor Logistics’ decision to stop operating in those regions on April 15.

The company confirmed it has approached the dozens of drivers who were working on-site for the contractor and lost their jobs this month. These workers were offered roles as Evri community couriers, with many accepting the positions.

Old Windsor Logistics, which operated from premises at Horspath Trading Estate in Cowley, Oxford, had been handling parcels for Evri for seven years.

The business owner explained that the collaboration came to an end because his drivers were unable to earn sufficient income to make a living. He pointed out that the compensation per parcel had been gradually cut since 2019.

The 35-year-old business owner expressed that the operation had become unsustainable. He mentioned that over the previous two years the company had systematically reduced the payment rates, with additional cuts implemented in the final three months.

He explained that he had requested extra financial support from Evri to keep the business running while covering value-added tax and driver salaries. The owner maintained that a better rate was essential for the company to stay afloat.

An Evri spokesperson indicated that the company routinely assesses its relationships with partners and remains committed to working alongside them to support their operations.

On April 15, the spokesperson stated that the company frequently reviews its delivery methods and third-party arrangements to enhance service quality and provide customers with optimal delivery choices.

However, Mr Sheehy insisted there had been no substantive conversations with the Leeds-based delivery company since he first raised his concerns in October of the previous year.

He described the situation as unreasonable, noting that the company had no intention of causing disruption to customers. He explained that the operation had simply reached a point where paying drivers and continuing to function had become impossible.

The Old Windsor Logistics proprietor added that the rates became even less viable once service-related penalties were included in calculations.

During the Christmas season, these penalties reportedly amounted to £7,600, and he characterised the system used to impose them as unfair, particularly regarding charges related to photographic evidence of delivery.

The Evri spokesperson also mentioned that independent research has shown the company achieves the highest punctual delivery rate compared to all other carriers, and that their committed community couriers play a vital role in the organisation.

As the company continues to grow, it also continues to welcome new community couriers who customers report provide excellent service.

Those wishing to apply can register their interest via the company’s website.