Logistics provides the perfect working environment for women, according to business group Logistics UK, particularly for those returning to work after a career break. On this, International Women’s Day (08 March), the organisation is highlighting the industry’s wide variety of roles available, ranging from postal workers to purchasing directors, and encouraging women to consider it as an employment option. 

Only 16.6% of roles in logistics were held by women in June 2021, but as Jonas Keat, Policy Advisor for Skills at Logistics UK, explained, the industry offers excellent opportunities for progression, as well as a working schedule which can fit around other commitments, such as family life.

Read more: The value of upskilling for a woman working in logistics

“In the past, women may not have considered a career in logistics, but the industry has much to offer in terms of opportunity for those seeking a new career.  With a huge range of roles on offer, from warehousing to driving, marketing to management, logistics has a career for everyone, but many have never considered our sector as a potential employer. Logistics is fast paced and involved in every part of the economy, with great pay and opportunities for progression, as well as working patterns which can be tailored to accommodate family commitments for women of all ages.”   

Campaigns such as the industry’s own Generation Logistics (www.generationlogistics.org) are drawing attention to the opportunities within the sector, with many women sharing their stories and demonstrating how they have gained a foothold in the industry.  And as Keat continues, more women should be considering a career in logistics for the benefits it provides: 

“As one of the most heavily regulated industries in the economy, logistics provides a controlled working environment which enables workers to plan their daily lives efficiently and effectively. With great opportunities for career progression and excellent rates of pay – With an average starting salary for a role in logistics up to 67% higher for 18 – 20 year olds, and up to 20% higher for those aged 21 years and older – there has never been a better time for women to take advantage of the job security and career progression which logistics provides.” 

Read more: More women are joining aviation industry

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With COVID-19, Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods.  

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