The same research found that 58% of women felt uncomfortable in the clothing they were issued and 24% said they felt unsafe at work as a result. Logistics UK said much of the kit supplied to women is simply smaller-sized versions of garments originally designed for men.
Tim Hyde, Head of Retail Operations at Logistics UK, said ill-fitting workwear leaves some women with little choice. “If female workers are allocated poor fitting workwear, they may simply choose not to use it, which effectively means they are being denied appropriate equipment to carry out their jobs safely,” he said.
The statement comes as the share of women in the UK logistics industry rises. Logistics UK said the number of women working as road transport drivers has grown by 322% over the past four years, while the number of women in director-level roles across logistics, warehousing and transport is up by 36%.
Hyde said the shortfall in suitable kit could slow that trend.
“The logistics sector is crying out for new talent, but a lack of appropriate workwear has the potential to discourage women from joining,” he said.
