The National Federation of SubPostmasters (NFSP) and the National Federation of Retail Newsagents (NFRN) have held “positive” talks about forming an alliance.

Senior representatives from both parties met last week to discuss the possibility of a merger.

Speaking afterwards, NFRN chief executive Paul Baxter said: “The NFSP is currently considering a number of options regarding its future and has approached a number of organisations, including the NFRN, to explore a potential merger.

“We were delighted to have the opportunity to present to the NFSP’s executive council and to demonstrate the substantial and wide ranging package of benefits that NFRN members enjoy. 

“It is our belief that these benefits, coupled with the NFRN’s  structure and size, could offer significant support to sub postmasters and that a tie-up with the NFSP, bringing together the best of both of our organisations, would be a positive step for us both.

“It was a very positive meeting and the NFRN’s presentation was very well received.”