Deutsche Post’s head of parcel and mail services, Nikola Hagleitner, has expressed concern over a rise in aggressive behavior towards postal carriers. Hagleitner, in statements to Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, noted a shift in public perception, contrasting the appreciation demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic with the current increase in verbal abuse directed at delivery personnel.
A significant source of conflict arises from parking disputes and Hagleitner confirmed an increase, albeit infrequent, in physical altercations involving delivery staff. Deutsche Post is responding to these incidents by pursuing legal action whenever carriers are subjected to assault.
To mitigate tensions, the company is implementing de-escalation training for its employees. A core principle emphasized is prioritizing personal safety in conflict situations. Despite the recent challenges, Hagleitner emphasized that the vast majority of citizens value and appreciate the work of postal carriers.
Addressing a recent incident in Herne, which garnered national attention, Hagleitner defended the termination of a delivery driver who allegedly struck a couple following verbal provocation. While acknowledging the unacceptable nature of the provocation, she affirmed the company’s zero-tolerance policy regarding violence.
Deutsche Post mandates background checks prior to hiring delivery personnel, a requirement confirmed by Hagleitner. The company reports encountering sufficient numbers of qualified candidates overall, although the demographic shift presents recruitment hurdles, particularly in urban areas.