Read your new issue online: 2502 is out now!
As we are now in 2025 rather than the Dark Ages, it’s all too easy to assume that gender equality in the workplace is widely recognised as a priority and something to address and drive forward. However, the latest FWD report, Championing Change: 10 years of Women in Wholesale 2015-2025, has revealed statistics that have genuinely shocked me (see page 8).
Despite the incredible work carried out by initiatives such as Women in Wholesale and Diversity in Wholesale, the percentage of women at board level in our sector has hit the lowest figure since records began.
Just 16% of board-level employees are women, a sharp decline compared to 20% just three years ago. To put this in context, across the UK’s top 150 companies, this figure shoots up to 48% – proof that wholesale really is lagging behind the UK average when it comes to gender diversity.
What the FWD report has revealed is crystal clear. We need to champion female leaders and role models within the sector. We need to raise their profiles and increase their visibility in order to inspire those who follow. In Wholesale News, we can do this but I need your help. Who would you like to hear from? What would you like to know? Get in touch, and the Wholesale News team will endeavour to shine a light on those who can lead the way.
Read the full issue online here, packed with essential news and features, including: a look at the damaging impact on the sector of the trade in illicit tobacco; the Easter opportunity; our day spent with KP Snacks at Bestway Park Royal to find out why McCoy’s is such a must-stock brand (watch our video here); key stories on diversity and inclusion; a focus on sustainability with our Green Wholesale Collective; and much more.
Lastly, if you’d rather read in print but don’t yet receive copies to your door, quickly sign up for free here and make sure you never miss an issue of the sector’s leading authoritative magazine from food and drink wholesale’s trade body.
Stephenie Shaw
Editor-in-Chief
