Retail’s Diversity and Inclusion Charter: Over 50 Major Names Sign Up
The UK retail sector is taking a proactive approach to address the lack of diversity and inclusion within its workforce. Spearheaded by the British Retail Consortium, this groundbreaking initiative has garnered support from over 50 prominent retailers, including John Lewis, Burberry, Boots, and Superdry. With the signing of this new charter, these companies have made a commitment to actively promote diversity and inclusivity within their organizations.
A recently released report by BRC/MBS/PwC shed light on the scarcity of diversity in boardroom positions within the retail industry. The study, which analyzed over 200 retailers, underscored the need for significant improvement. Currently, only 33% of board members, 32% of executive boards, and 37.5% of individuals who report directly to the board are women, leaving two-thirds of senior leadership positions occupied by men. Shockingly, 20% of retailers have no women on their boards, and 15% lack women on their executive committees. Additionally, representation for black and ethnic minority individuals is severely lacking, with just 4.5% of boards, 5.8% of executive boards, and 6% of direct reports comprised of individuals from these underrepresented groups.
Despite these disheartening findings, the report did reveal that 84% of retailers consider diversity and inclusion to be top priorities. However, less than half of retail employees believe their employers prioritize these issues sufficiently.
The newly introduced retail sector charter intends to rectify these disparities through a series of crucial commitments. Companies signing the charter have pledged to appoint diversity and inclusion executives, eliminate bias from recruitment processes, support equal career opportunities for all employees, collect and contribute data on diversity, foster a respectful and inclusive work environment, and ensure that all line managers bear responsibility for promoting equity in the workplace.
Alongside major retailers such as John Lewis and Superdry, the charter has garnered support from additional industry leaders, including Ann Summers, Argos, Asda, Bravissimo, Joules L’Occitane, MandM Direct, Matalan, Mountain Warehouse, Oliver Bonas, Reiss, Sainsbury’s, Seasalt, Starbucks Studio Retail, Superdrug, Ted Baker, The Fragrance Shop, Very Group, Watches of Switzerland, and The White Company.
This introduction of the charter marks a significant milestone in the journey toward a more diverse and inclusive retail sector. By championing equality and providing equitable opportunities for all employees, these companies are setting a positive example for the entire industry. However, it is crucial to continuously monitor progress and hold companies accountable to ensure tangible change takes place. With the commitment shown by these major retailers, there is hope for a future in which the retail industry is truly representative and inclusive.
Useful links:
1. John Lewis Partnership
2. Burberry
