"Print production is a tough job requiring answers to niggling questions on an ongoing basis," said Tim Hamill, Royal Mail's partnership director. "Through the helpline we want to relieve some of this pressure."

Royal Mail says the helpline will be manned by experienced production specialists and will offer fast over-the-phone advice on how to save money on postage and packing, help with difficult formats, and information about approval of direct mail campaigns and freepost artwork.

The helpline number is 08456 112299 and lines are open from 8am to 5:30pm, with calls charged at a local rate.

Meanwhile, Royal Mail has launched a campaign to promote the effectiveness of direct mail in driving customer loyalty.
 
The two-phased campaign, which was created by Proximity London and entitled 'Mail for me', draws a parallel between the break-up of a relationship and the breakdown of a brand's relationship with its customers.
 
Both mailings consist of a personal letter from a female lover, who is ending a relationship due to a breakdown in communication.
 
Amanda Phillips, chief executive at Proximity London, said: "We developed the concept of a break-up letter because it is a powerful analogy to illustrate how customers can sever their relationship with a brand."
 
The campaign is targeting 5,400 business executives at 2,300 UK advertising and marketing agencies, all of whom currently allocate little or no budget to direct mail activity.