Co-op aims to to support female talent in the logistics sector within retail, in its second intake for its Women in Leadership programme for 2026.

Following the successful completion of the inaugural 2025 cohort, the initiative returns. It was developed in collaboration with learning provider Raise the Bar and offers aspiring female leaders and managers with skills and resources to progress their careers.

This builds on the success of the pilot last year, and 10 colleagues have recently joined the next cohort. The scheme has expanded to support female workers across Co-op’s wider supply chain function.

The programme includes workshops, webinars, podcasts and individual coaching designed to build leadership skills.

Additionally, internal mentoring opportunities were placed to strengthen support networks across the business.

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Andy Wilmot, supply chain & logistics director at Co-op, said: “The success of this programme demonstrates the sheer strength of female talent we have across our logistics and supply chain teams, which for too long has been a male-dominated industry.

“Creating opportunities for women to develop, progress and thrive in leadership roles is not only the right thing to do, it helps us build stronger and more diverse teams that better reflect the communities we serve.”

Clare Maclauchlan, logistics and supply chain development manager at Co-op, added: “As we welcome new participants, we’re focused on continuing to build a supportive community of alumni who can champion, inspire and support the next generation of female leaders across our business.”

This is part of the retailer’s ongoing commitment to supporting its staff members and offering growth opportunities.

Last year Co-op improved its pregnancy loss policy, doubling paid leave from five to ten days for colleagues affected by miscarriage, stillbirth or pregnancy loss.