Europa Worldwide Group is encouraging staff to nominate women who are driving change in the logistics sector, as part of International Women Day (8 March).
The company said it was ahead of creating an environment where top talent can thrive, by establishing a merit-based culture and as a result its team was now 43.5% female – compared to an industry average of just 15%.
Tom Jenkins, central services director, said: “Our intention is to build the best team, regardless of gender, ethnicity and background, and to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and that performance is recognised and rewarded.
“This is why we have tried to establish a culture which prioritises internal development and progression, establishing a valuable support network for those who join us.”
The company’s marketing and communications director, Kirsty Dean, is one of two females on Europa’s board of directors and she said its culture helped her navigate the challenges of a male-dominated industry: “The performance of our business depends entirely on the motivation of our people,” she said.
“Logistics is still largely male-dominated and that can be intimidating for young females.
“By fostering respect for each other and creating teams which value character and personality, we can create a diverse, compassionate and inclusive environment where people feel at ease.
“It’s these values that play such a critical role in the DNA of our business.”
Digital solutions provider SNAP said many female HGV drivers had highlighted how there was still work to do to make the job safer and more inclusive.
Professional driver Daria said: “If we want more women in trucking, how about giving us secure parking, clean toilets that don’t look like crime scenes and showers that don’t feel like a gamble?
“Feeling safe and having decent facilities isn’t asking for much - it’s just basic respect, and every driver deserves that.”
