The need to embrace equity

Anyone with a copy of this issue of OPI in their hands – or looking at it digitally on their devices, of course – will instantly know what it is all about. Women! As we #EmbraceEquity on International Women ’s Day this month (8 March), we wanted to mark the occasion and find out just how ‘ equal ’ our sector really is.

Dedicating a substantial part of the magazine to shining a light on 50 of the most influential and inspirational women in our industry was not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but the result of lengthy discussions and considerable research (page 30)

I hope we got it right, providing valuable information as well as true inspiration to fellow women – and the men who still so often employ them on their journey to the top. As Fellowes Brands’ Beth Wright said in our Big Interview, stereotypes and role definitions have undoubtedly evolved, but not fast enough for women (page 20). There is much room for improvement and true equity is a long way off.

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Another core focus in this issue is a deep dive into the health and well-being category in our sector (page 44) . COVID-19 has catapulted this topic not just to the top of the procurement agenda – in terms of product opportunities – but also, arguably for the first time, reached the upper echelons of management in terms of really considering employee happiness.

Saying your staff are your most precious resource are mere words and can be quite meaningless at times. Leaders have to act on popular platitudes. With products – think ergonomic equipment, a clean and safe environment, and healthy snack options – but also with broader support services and solutions.

Sarah Hunter, another ‘ influential woman ’, provides a great overview of what has been done at Australian reseller Officeworks in this regard (page 54) . Excellent food for thought for many a company leader and another potent reminder of the importance of considering employee wellness in all its forms.

I ’ve found this to be a hugely interesting magazine to put together. It has less of the cutthroat M&A we ’ve seen earlier this year, but I hope it offers a great perspective on what our industry should be striving for.