International Women’s Day, which this year took place on 8 March, is a day held each year which focuses on gender equality, celebrates women’s achievements, and promotes women-focused charities.
Although many roles in transport and logistics have traditionally been held by men, the face of the industry is changing, with a rapidly growing number of women choosing careers across the logistics sector.
For example, according to figures from the UK’s ONS Annual Population Survey 2021-2025, the number of women working as road transport drivers has grown by 322% in four years, with other roles also recording increases.
Over the same timescale, women working as directors in logistics, warehousing and transport has risen by 36%; the amount of female forklift truck drivers has increased by 15% and the number of transport and distribution clerks and assistants has grown by 61%.
With so many different ways into the sector, trade organisation Logistics UK is keen to highlight that there is a place in the industry for all women.
Bethany Windsor, Logistics UK’s Head of Skills Policy and Generation Logistics said: “In the past, the logistics sector was male dominated, but we’re seeing that situation change with more women moving into the sector.
“This growth re-affirms what we know about logistics: it is flexible, with plenty of opportunities to progress and grow for everyone.
“The sector isn’t just about driving; it is multi-faceted and dynamic, with lots of different jobs on offer for everyone.
“Working in customs or supply chain management, for example, requires technical expertise and analytical thinking and are as critical as driving is in keeping the country moving.”
The bus industry continues to face a significant gender imbalance, with women currently making up only about 10% of the workforce.
Bus and coach operator Stagecoach is determined to change this narrative, ensuring its teams reflect the diverse communities they serve by focusing on attracting and retaining more female talent.
To inspire the next generation, the company is launching a formal mentoring scheme as part of its Women@Stagecoach network.
Under the initiative, the company is calling on mentors from across the business – both male and female – to volunteer their time to help female mentees build the skills, confidence, and experience needed to thrive.
Established in 2021, the Women@Stagecoach network is open to all women and allies, and, working alongside the National Women’s Forum, the group has successfully introduced menopause guidelines and strengthened maternity and paternity policies.
Sarah Blake, Chief People Officer at Stagecoach, said: “At Stagecoach, we want our workforce to truly reflect the communities we serve.
“By launching our new mentoring scheme, we are providing a platform for colleagues across the business – both men and women – to share their expertise to help our female talent build successful, long-term careers in transport.”
Meanwhile, from June 2026, operator First Bus is to offer five days’ paid leave for employees undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment, as well as two days’ paid leave for their partners.
The company has introduced menopause friendly fabrics for staff to wear, as well as redesigned uniform shirts and buttons, so that the shirt opening faces away from the customer when a driver is sitting in their cab.
It has also expanded women’s footwear options to suit women’s feet.
In addition, First Bus provides access to specialist women’s health GP services – enabling free online appointments without lengthy waits – and is a Period Positive Workplace, providing free period products across its sites.
Janette Bell, Managing Director, First Bus, said with the introduction of paid leave for employees undergoing IVF treatment, the company is reinforcing its commitment to supporting employees through every stage of life.
She added: “We want to see more women join our industry, stay with us and thrive.
“That’s why listening to feedback from women across our industry helps us bring about real, practical change.
“At First Bus we’re proud to have already introduced menopause guidance and manager training, created uniform designed specifically for women, access to specialist women’s health services, and stronger measures to prevent harassment and support a positive workplace culture.
“Our focus is on creating an environment where women can build long-term, rewarding careers.
“But we know there’s more to do, which is why we’re continuing work on initiatives such as mapping toilet facilities along routes, ensuring inclusive design in new engineering wear, and strengthening support for parents and carers.”
To tie in with International Women’s Day, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) (CILT(UK)) delivered its first Women in Supply Chain & Transport event on 5 March, bringing together leaders and emerging talent from across the profession for a day of insight, networking and collective action.Held at CEVA Logistics in the East Midlands, the event welcomed a strong cross-section of professionals from logistics, transport and supply chain organisations nationwide.
Under the theme Pathways & Progress, the programme explored career development, inclusive leadership, organisational best practice and the tangible steps needed to accelerate gender equity across the sector.
A series of keynote addresses, spotlight sessions and panel discussions followed, featuring senior leaders from major brands and fast-growing businesses, who shared candid reflections on navigating barriers, building confidence and driving transformation within their organisations.Highlights included discussions on inclusive recruitment practices, strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, change-proof leadership, and case studies from organisations promoting measurable gender diversity initiatives.
Speakers shared personal experiences, and the networking sessions at the event provided valuable opportunities for attendees to build new partnerships and peer support networks.
The programme also contributed 3.5 experiential CPD hours, reinforcing CILT(UK)’s focus on professional development and continuous learning.
Helen Hardy, CILT(UK), CEO, said: “The strength of attendance and the calibre of discussion demonstrate that our profession is ready to lead with intent.
“By sharing lived experience, championing inclusive leadership and committing to practical change, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for supply chain and transport.”
International Women’s Day is a vital moment for the transport and logistics industry to celebrate the incredible women who keep the sector moving, while inspiring others to reach their full potential.
