The Philatelic Traders’ Society has issued this statement:

Towards the conclusion of his recent article, ‘Philately Needs Leadership by Example’, published in The Corinphila Gazette, Jonas Hällström proposes that the Philatelic Traders’ Society (PTS) should take a leading role in developing a coordinated international plan for the future of philately. As our Society is specifically mentioned in these proposals, we welcome the opportunity to respond.
The article raises important questions about the future direction of philately, the role of leadership. and the need for greater cooperation across the hobby. These are subjects that deserve open and constructive discussion, and we welcome contributions from those who share a genuine passion for the future of stamp collecting.
We agree that philately needs strong, forward-thinking leadership and a clearer vision for the future. We also welcome the author’s recognition of the important role that the PTS and the wider philatelic trade can play in helping shape that future. We believe the PTS has both an opportunity and a responsibility to demonstrate leadership, but that meaningful and lasting progress will be achieved through collaboration rather than any one organisation acting alone.
We also agree that the hobby would benefit from a coordinated, long-term plan. With the bicentenary of the world’s first postage stamp approaching in 2040, there is a valuable opportunity to establish a shared vision, identify priorities, and consider how the wider philatelic community can work together to achieve them.

The PTS is already working on a number of exciting new initiatives aimed at strengthening standards within the trade, increasing collector confidence, broadening participation, and helping to create a more vibrant, accessible and sustainable hobby. We look forward to sharing more details of these plans in due course.
We also welcome the suggestion of an international summit to discuss the future of philately. We would be very open to exploring such an initiative, particularly if it could bring together leaders and representatives from the major philatelic organisations, societies, exhibition organisers, and the trade from around the world. Bringing these groups together to establish common objectives and identify practical opportunities for cooperation could be a valuable step forward.

We recognise the considerable contribution that established organisations, including The Royal Philatelic Society London, have made and continue to make to philately. We believe there is much to be gained from building on this experience whilst embracing fresh ideas, new approaches and opportunities to reach a wider audience. Greater cooperation, clearer objectives and a willingness to adapt will be important if the hobby is to continue evolving.

The PTS exists first and foremost to represent and support its members, promote high standards within the philatelic trade, and encourage confidence and participation in stamp collecting. However, we also recognise that a strong and successful trade depends upon a healthy and thriving wider hobby.
Ultimately, we believe there is far more that unites the philatelic community than divides it. The PTS intends to take an active and positive leadership role in helping shape the future of philately, working with established organisations, industry leaders and collectors who share our ambition.
The opportunities ahead are considerable, and we believe the best way to realise them is by working together.

Iain Murphy, Vice Chair, The PTS