The advent of social media and electronically improved forms of communication has not only impacted on traditional forms of communication but has affected the postal system.

Gone are the days when one eagerly looked forward for a surprise on Christmas day just because a friend, relative or even a well-wisher would send a card expressing his or her feelings to mark the occasion.

Today, it seems the social media e-cards has gradually slowed down the sales of cards on festive occasions and thereby affected the postal system.

A visit to some shops where these cards are sold confirmed a low patronage of Christmas cards during the season.

At the Expression Gifts and Cards, Nana's Home of Cards, Garden Mart and the Post office area of the market circle in Takoradi, traders expressed unhappiness with the low patronage of their wares and blamed the situation on social media forms of communication.

Madam Jennifer Wilson, a dealer in seasonal cards, told the GNA that there had been a significant sales drop and few people, especially the adult population, continue to use cards.

Mrs Georgina Abakah, a Retired Educationist, said the importance of seasonal cards cannot be underestimated as it serves a much more purpose than e-cards which could be erased or lost when a phone is stolen or develops fault.

"As for me, i use cards a lot," she said.

Mame Esi Oppong, a form two students of the Community Development Institute in Takoradi, said though Watsapp helps in expressing one’s self, receiving letters and cards especially on campus makes one feel good.