The Interactive Media Group has said it regrets the decision by Royal Mail staff to support a national strike which is sure to have a devastating effect on the Christmas e-commerce season.

In a statement, the IMRG said it was disappointed by the move and highlighted that a pattern is emerging of staff taking industrial action during the festive period.

The group said that the decision will seriously damage the Royal Mail's standing and drive people and businesses into the arms of alternative parcel delivery providers such as Parcel2Go.

The IMRG's chief executive James Roper said the Communication Workers Union has overlooked the opportunities the e-retail industry presents the Royal Mail, with sales expectations for the fourth quarter set to exceed £15.5 billion.

He added that, at the end of the day, it is consumers who will feel the effects the most.

However, all is not lost, as Parcel2Go can take care of the nation's parcel delivery needs in a quick and efficient manner.