Celebrating Progress, Driving Meaningful Change
Every year on 8th March, International Women’s Day (IWD) is an opportunity to recognise the achievements of women worldwide and reflect on the progress still needed to achieve true gender equality. While there is much to celebrate, this day also serves as a reminder that change must happen faster.
The theme for IWD 2025, #AccelerateAction, highlights the urgency of removing barriers, closing gender gaps, and creating workplaces and societies where women can thrive. Progress cannot be passive – it requires deliberate, sustained effort from individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
Why Does Accelerating Action Matter?
- Progress remains uneven – Despite years of discussion, gender inequalities persist in workplaces, leadership, and economic participation. Action must be measurable and impactful.
- Addressing global setbacks – From economic uncertainty to shifting workplace structures, recent challenges have disproportionately affected women. Now is the time to recover lost ground
- Driving long-term solutions – Change must extend beyond policies to practical actions that create opportunities, remove bias, and empower women at every level.
- Ensuring no one is left behind – Gender equality must be inclusive and intersectional, considering the unique barriers faced by women of different backgrounds, abilities, and experiences.
At Bunzl Cleaning and Hygiene Supplies (BCHS), we are committed to accelerating action by ensuring our workplace champions equity, supports career progression, and fosters an inclusive culture where all voices are heard. As Beth Smith, our Human Resources Manager, emphasises, achieving gender equality within organisations requires more than just good intentions: “It’s not about paying lip service to the idea of gender equality, it is about concrete and practical actions to embed it into the company.”. She goes on to highlight that the ‘first step is to ensure buy-in from the senior leadership team and then to implement the relevant policies that promote gender equality, inclusivity, and equal opportunities.”
Women in Leadership: Driving Change from the Top
A truly inclusive workplace requires diverse leadership. Women in senior roles bring fresh perspectives, drive innovation, and strengthen business performance. Yet, worldwide, barriers remain – whether through unconscious bias, lack of representation, or limited access to mentorship and leadership development.
At BCHS, we are committed to ensuring women have clear pathways into leadership through structured development programmes, mentorship, and sponsorship. Supporting women at the leadership level is not just about representation; it’s about creating environments where all leaders – regardless of gender – can succeed on equal footing. Aman Samara, our Credit Control Manager, highlights the importance of diversity in leadership: “Women bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. By embracing diverse and inclusive leadership roles, we can ensure gender equality, empathy and emotional intelligence as well as the fundamentals required to get the job done. A good balance all round I’d say!”
However, for many women across the globe, the challenge begins before they even enter leadership. Brittany Bennett, our Customer Contact Centre Manager, shares her experience: “I have always encouraged companies I have worked for to make positive change by speaking up on issues. However, if it’s not possible, seek out an industry that is progressively looking to step into the future and empower female leadership and support driving the change.”
Empowering Women Through the High Potential Programme
Bunzl UK & Ireland’s High Potential Programme is one way we actively support women in developing the skills, confidence, and leadership mindset needed to progress in their careers. Through workshops, mentorship, and leadership training, we provide a structured pathway for career growth.
The programme covers key areas including:
- Strategic Leadership – Equipping women with decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Situational Management – Learning to navigate diverse leadership scenarios.
- Diversity & Inclusion – Understanding how inclusive leadership drives better outcomes.
- Workplace Well-being – Managing resilience, confidence, and work-life balance.
Selena Fox, who progressed to the role of Regional Account Manager after completing the programme, reflects on its impact: “Firstly, being selected for the High Potential Programme made me feel valued, it was a good feeling to know the business has invested in my development. Secondly, the course itself has increased my confidence and leadership skills, it has positively influenced my career as I was promoted to the role of Regional Account Manager.”
Perspectives from our D&I Members
To understand the true impact of #AccelerateAction, we spoke to members of our Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) team about what businesses can do to drive change. Hayley Garner, BCHS Carlisle Branch Manager, stresses the need for open dialogue: “Having save platforms to discuss such things and listen to people’s suggestions of how our business can strengthen around gender.” There are direct business benefits of a more inclusive workplace. Diversity of thought leads to stronger businesses. When organisations actively seek and support women in leadership, they see real business benefits – stronger teams, better decision-making, and a culture of innovation.
Beyond the Workplace: Accelerating Impact in Our Communities
Gender equality extends beyond our workplaces. At BCHS, we actively partner with women-led businesses, support female entrepreneurs, and invest in mentorship, that helps women develop the skills and confidence to pursue their ambitions.
When businesses take meaningful action towards gender equality, the impact is far-reaching. An organisation’s commitment to gender equality creates a ripple effect beyond their organisation’s industries, communities, and opportunities for future generations.
In addition, organisations must continue to review and enhance policies on equal pay, career progression, and workplace flexibility, ensuring that our commitment to women’s empowerment is more than just words.
How We Can All #AccelerateAction
Creating a truly inclusive world requires collective effort. This International Women’s Day, we encourage everyone – regardless of gender – to:
- Advocate for equality – Speak up against bias and champion fair opportunities
- Support career progression – Mentor, sponsor, or uplift colleagues
- Celebrate women’s achievements – Recognition matters. Let’s amplify success stories.
At Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies, we are committed to fostering an environment where talent is recognised, opportunities are accessible, and women can thrive. By working together, we can accelerate action and make gender equality a lived reality.
This International Women’s Day, let us move beyond awareness and into action.
To learn more about what Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies is doing to support our colleagues follow our social channels, and visit our website at Diversity-and-Inclusion | BCHS
#AccelerateAction #IWD2025 #InclusionMatters
