WiHTL & Diversity in Retail, a Collaboration Community devoted to increasing inclusion across hospitality, travel, leisure and retail, has announced widespread support from chief executives for a campaign demonstrating continued commitment to building more inclusive organisations, and highlighting the sector as being welcoming to all.
"As sectors that are inherently diverse in the makeup of both their customer base and employees, chief executives and senior leaders from many of the UK’s leading HTL and retail businesses have been quick to demonstrate their ongoing commitment," states the community. "This includes those from Asda, AF Blakemore, Currys, Dunelm, Greggs, IKEA, John Lewis Partnership, Sainsbury's, and Wickes."
The roster also includes AIS, DFS, Harrods and The Very Group. So far, over 50 leaders have endorsed the following statement: “As CEOs of companies across the hospitality, travel, leisure and retail sectors, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering workplaces that are inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the diverse world we live in.
"Inclusion and equity are not just principles we aspire to uphold – they are fundamental to the success of our companies. They drive innovation, strengthen cultures, and ensure that the brilliantly diverse people who work in our industries feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.
"We know that progress has been made and we are proud of the progress we have made so far, making our sectors some of the most inclusive places for people to choose to work. However, we recognise there is always more to do. That’s why we are sharing our commitment to leading our companies to be places where every voice is heard and every individual is given an equitable opportunity to succeed.
"Together, as an industry, we can ensure we remain a place where those who work within it – regardless of background, identity, or experience – can truly belong and flourish.”
In launching this campaign, Tea Colaianni (pictured), founder and chair of WiHTL & Diversity in Retail, aims to galvanise the industry, ensuring the focus remains on developing skills, nurturing talent, investing in leadership and fostering an inclusive culture. She explains: “It is more important than ever to visibly demonstrate our collective commitment to inclusion, recognising its strategic importance to the hospitality, travel, leisure and retail sector.
"This industry-wide pledge to building truly inclusive workplaces by chief executives will undoubtedly galvanise our industry, build trust with colleagues and help to attract the most talented people to work here, now and in the future – making it a sector of choice that is open and welcoming to everyone.”
