Summary of Entretien avec Philippe Wahl, PDG du groupe La Poste - Business Explorers

Financial Strategies and Business Trends:

Transformation Focus: La Poste has shifted its focus from traditional mail services to become a leader in parcel delivery, particularly in the e-commerce sector. By 2023, parcels accounted for 52% of the company's turnover, up from 40% in 2010.
Diversification of Services: The company is expanding its offerings to include banking, insurance, home services, and digital solutions. This multi-business model is essential for offsetting the decline in mail revenue.
Social Bond Concept: Wahl emphasizes the importance of La Poste in fostering social connections, framing the delivery of parcels and home services as integral to maintaining societal bonds.
Addressing Digital Exclusion: The company is actively working to combat digital exclusion by providing digital education and services to underserved populations, particularly the elderly.
Financial Resilience: Despite facing challenges such as inflation and declining mail volume, La Poste reported a net profit of €514 million in 2023, demonstrating the resilience of its business model.

Diagnosis: Regularly assess the financial health and market position of La Poste, acknowledging losses in traditional mail services.
Vision Development: Establish a clear vision centered around the concept of social bonds and the role of La Poste in society.
Engagement with Employees: Involve postal workers and unions in the transformation process to ensure buy-in and collaboration.
Strategic Planning: Implement a multi-business approach to diversify revenue streams, focusing on e-commerce, banking, and home services.
Continuous Feedback Loop: Maintain ongoing communication with employees and stakeholders through regular strategic cycles and meetings.

The conversation highlights the dynamic changes La Poste is undergoing to remain relevant and financially viable in a rapidly evolving market.

— 11:20 — « Home service is a new business. »

— 12:20 — « My job as boss is to prepare the 7th century of the post. »

— 15:40 — « A leader who considers that he has arrived has started to lose his influence. »

— 16:48 — « The post office is very attached to the social bond. »

— 21:56 — « A company which is profitable must contribute to the transformation of society. »