The event offers a unique platform for academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to critically reflect on the future of postal and delivery services. The Conference draws a global audience and is enriched by the participation of renowned experts from around the world.

About the conference

Building on a tradition spanning over three decades, the 33rd edition of the Conference will be organised in partnership with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) for the second consecutive year, further enriching its scope and attracting broader global participation.

In 2023, the Conference marked a significant milestone by integrating the UPU Innovation Challenge, a dynamic hackathon aimed at harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to address pressing challenges in the postal sector. This initiative will continue in the upcoming edition, with the Innovation Challenge being even more deeply embedded into the Conference programme. Participants will have access to vast datasets and cutting-edge technology, working collaboratively to develop AI-driven solutions for enhancing operational efficiency, improving customer service, and advancing digital inclusion and sustainability in postal services.

Highlights

• UPU Innovation Challenge: a dynamic hackathon where participants collaborate to leverage AI and big data, developing innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency, customer service, and digital inclusion.
• Key Themes: this year’s edition aims to explore a wide array of topics, including the economics and regulation of postal services, digital transformation, sustainable delivery practices, postal banks, and the role of postal services in social and economic inclusion. Special attention is expected to be given to emerging areas such as the impact of AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity on postal services, as well as strategies for postal reforms in both mature and developing markets. 
• Publication of selected papers: following the conference, authors are encouraged to submit their papers for consideration in a collective book published annually with Springer and edited by Professors Parcu, Brennan, and Glass.