Parcel2Go Ireland has issued a warning to small businesses in Ireland following the announcement that Fastway Couriers has entered receivership. The collapse of Fastway, one of Ireland’s largest courier networks, has raised concerns about the reliability of parcel services for local retailers and online sellers. As the e-commerce sector continues to grow, small businesses are being urged to review their courier arrangements and prepare for potential delivery disruptions.
According to Ashley Taylor, Director of Commercial of Parcel2Go Ireland, the failure of a courier network has far-reaching consequences for businesses. “When a courier network fails it doesn’t just affect parcels – it affects livelihoods,” said Ashley. “Irish SMEs have worked hard to build their online sales, and they deserve logistics partners that can support them through uncertainty. Our focus right now is on helping those businesses stay operational and protect their customers’ trust.”
The collapse of Fastway is a reminder of the fragility of the delivery chain in Ireland. In recent years, several smaller courier companies have faced financial difficulties, highlighting the intense competition and cost pressures in the parcel industry. For many small businesses, relying on a single courier has proven to be a risky strategy, especially during busy trading periods.
The closure of a courier company can have immediate and significant effects on businesses, including delayed or undelivered parcels, increased costs, and strained customer service. To help affected businesses, Parcel2Go Ireland has issued a short guide for switching couriers and maintaining service continuity. The guide advises businesses to audit their active shipments, communicate with customers about potential delays, and consider adopting a multi-carrier solution to reduce reliance on one courier.
“This is not about one courier replacing another,” added Ashley. “It’s about strengthening the delivery network that supports Irish businesses every day. By taking proactive steps now, SMEs can keep goods moving and avoid long-term disruption.”
While courier failures are still relatively uncommon, the Fastway situation highlights the need for resilience and flexibility in Ireland’s logistics sector. For small businesses, contingency planning is now essential, not optional.
Parcel2Go Ireland is a leading online parcel delivery comparison platform, connecting Irish individuals and businesses with trusted couriers across Ireland, the UK, and beyond. The platform offers transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and access to multiple delivery partners in one place. With Parcel2Go Ireland, businesses can save time, money, and hassle when shipping their parcels. For more information, visit www.parcel2go.com/ie/.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.