The story behind the December stamps
Interview with Sacha van Hoorn from PostNL
For many, December stamps have become a holiday tradition. For years, these stamps have been printed by Royal Joh. Enschedé, who, alongside PostNL, ensures a seamless process from design to production. In this interview, Sacha van Hoorn, product manager at PostNL, discusses the development of these iconic stamps, the collaboration with Royal Joh. Enschedé, and the future of the December stamp.
A 12-month process
The December period is all about connection and strengthening relationships. “Sending Christmas cards remains one of the most popular ways to let people know you’re thinking of them and to wish them a Merry Christmas,” says Sacha. “With the December stamp, we want to support that special feeling, providing everyone with the chance to send their holiday mail in a unique way.”
“The process actually begins in December of the previous year,” Sacha explains. “Through close consultations with various departments, such as Marketing, we determine what the new December stamps will feature. There are always plenty of ideas, but we also know what our customers want to see on these stamps, so we keep that in mind.”
From idea to stamp
The development of December stamps is both a creative and technically challenging journey. “We start with a theme or subject and test it through consumer research,” Sacha explains. “This way, we understand which design or style best aligns with customer preferences.”
After this stage, the creative work begins. The designer receives a briefing and creates sketches, which are further refined. “Every detail has to be perfect,” says Sacha, “from the images to the typography and colors. There is also close collaboration with Royal Joh. Enschedé to ensure everything is technically feasible for printing.”
Once the design is finalized, preparation for printing begins. “The printer plays a crucial role,” says Sacha. “Together with the designer, I’m always present during the press check. This is the last chance for any small changes. If everything looks good, we start the press, and millions of December stamps are printed. It’s always a special moment!”
Collaborating with Royal Joh. Enschedé
PostNL and Royal Joh. Enschedé have collaborated for years on the production of various stamps, not just the December stamps. “It’s a great partnership,” Sacha says. “Joh. Enschedé really thinks along with us, and there’s almost nothing they can’t do.”
With a history of printing high-quality, secure stamps, Joh. Enschedé offers a unique combination of craftsmanship and innovation. “We know we can rely on them to deliver a top product every time,” says Sacha.
What does the future of the December stamp look like?
“The December stamp will continue to play an important role,” Sacha confirms. “Sending a Christmas card is more than just a tradition; it’s a way to let people know you’re thinking of them. We’ll continue to support that personal aspect with December stamps that have a special meaning.”
Royal Joh. Enschedé remains proudly involved in this special project, representing not only a piece of tradition but also showing how stamps can continue to make an impact in the digital age.
A century of tradition, printed with passion
For decades, Royal Joh. Enschedé has printed the iconic December stamps. With attention to detail and a passion for perfection, they ensure that these special stamps add a bit of magic to the holidays each year.
