Brussels, 3 June 2024 – Cefic is happy to partake in this new cross-sector initiative launched to bridge the gender gap and create a more attractive, equitable, and innovative logistics sector.

Women in Logistics (WIL) is a pioneering initiative launched by Dow and H.Essers, uniting Cefic and ECTA, the European chemical Transport Association, as facilitating partners, alongside six other companies from the chemical industry and the chemical logistics sector – Den Hartogh, Bertschi, Suttons, LyondellBasell, Eastman, and Covestro.

The relevance of this collaborative initiative lies in its immense economical impact

More diverse companies outperform their peers in terms of talent acquisition and retention, creativity, innovation, and turnover. Despite gradual improvements, the gender disparity in logistics remains significant. For instance, women constitute only 6% or less of the truck driver population in the EU. Addressing this gap, particularly during a time of driver shortages, is essential for creating a balanced and efficient workforce. However, operational and leadership roles in logistics continue to be predominantly held by men, highlighting the need for targeted action to promote gender balance.

The consortium targets the European Chemical logistics industry first

Because this balanced approach not only enhances team performance but also fosters innovation, sustainability, compliance, and resilience in the logistics industry. To provide a concrete roadmap for our endeavours, Women in Logistics has chosen to concentrate efforts on three key target groups: drivers, operators, and leadership. By establishing dedicated working groups for each target group, the consortium aims to drive meaningful change and foster a more inclusive and diverse logistics industry landscape.

Women in Logistics is committed to promoting a more inclusive and diverse logistics industry landscape, through collaboration beyond competition. 

“Women In Logistics focuses on three main areas, each with different diversity aspects. From increasing female representation in leadership to attracting and retaining more female drivers and blue collar employees. Join us in driving the change!”

Joost Naessens-Director, Transport and Logistics – Cefic

You may read the full press release here.