UK Mail saw its highest ever daily volumes across its parcels and mail divisions in March, the firm reported in its pre-close trading update today (9 April), but would not reveal the actual numbers.

Group reported turnover for the year ended 31 March was up 11% on 2011/12's figures. Performance in March was particularly strong, boosting Q4 turnover by 6% compared to the same period in the previous year.

UK Mail's parcels division saw quarterly volumes increase by 20% on the previous year which it said was largely driven by the continued increase in online shopping.

Its mail division also saw an increase in turnover due to “strong customer retention and business wins”. However, it saw a decline in turnover in its courier business, which the firm said was “as expected”.

Chief executive Guy Buswell said: “The performance of our business in the final quarter of the year was again strong, partly helped by the early Easter. I am particularly pleased with the performance of our parcels business where volume growth continues to be high.”

The firm remains confident that it will continue to grow throughout 2013, despite forecasting a “challenging” 2013, where pricing will stay competitive.