While some women’s issues in the workplace have risen to boardroom level, for too long, menstrual health has been an overlooked aspect of workplace wellbeing.
While significant strides have been made in diversity and inclusion, menstrual care remains a topic that is often ignored in professional settings. Research shows that 80% of women and people with periods worry about managing their menstrual cycle at work, and 76% say it disrupts their day. These findings highlight the urgent need for workplaces to address this issue – not only for the wellbeing of employees but also for the overall productivity of businesses.
This is particularly relevant in retail workplaces, where employees are often in customer-facing roles and working structured shifts and on their feet for long periods. Unlike office environments, which may allow for more flexibility, retail workers often rely on scheduled breaks and shared facilities. Recent findings show that 63% of women have reported feeling unable to take a break when they needed one due to their period. Simple changes – such as providing free period products in staff toilets – can make a huge difference in creating an inclusive, supportive workplace where employees can focus on their jobs without unnecessary stress.
What is a ‘period-friendly’ workplace?
A period-friendly workplace is more than just making products available – it’s about normalising conversations around menstrual health and eliminating stigma. According to research, one in three women say they feel uncomfortable talking about their periods at work, and 46% have felt embarrassed about needing to manage their period in the workplace. By fostering an open and supportive culture, retail businesses can help break down these outdated taboos and ensure employees feel comfortable managing their periods at work. But some organisations might not know where to start.
Providing free period products in staff toilets – just like soap and toilet paper – is a simple but powerful way to demonstrate inclusivity. When employers take this step, they’re sending a message that their employees’ health and wellbeing are valued, regardless of gender or biology. It’s also an important move towards eliminating the shame or embarrassment that still lingers in many work environments.
The impact of ignoring menstrual health
Failing to consider menstrual health in the workplace isn’t just an oversight – it can have a direct impact on absenteeism, productivity, and employee wellbeing. No one should have to leave work unexpectedly or feel anxious about accessing essential products.
A survey found that 45.2% of women have taken time off work due to menstrual symptoms. Additionally, nearly 1 in 5 women (19%) say that limited access to period products or workplace facilities has been a contributing factor in their need to take time off work. These figures highlight why businesses need to take action – by providing free period products, employers can help reduce unplanned absences and improve workplace engagement.
The business case for a period-friendly workplace
Beyond employee wellbeing, there is a strong business case for making workplaces period inclusive. In fact, 63% of women said that normalising the topic of periods in the workplace would make them feel more supported.
When employees feel that their employer is supporting their basic needs, it builds trust and loyalty. Workers are more likely to feel appreciated and valued, which contributes to overall job satisfaction. This, in turn, has a direct impact on motivation and productivity levels. When employees don’t have to worry about being caught unprepared, they experience less stress, better focus, and improved morale.
Creating a workplace that actively promotes inclusivity and wellbeing, is not just beneficial for employees; it’s beneficial for the company as a whole. Companies that foster an inclusive environment tend to attract top talent, as many workers, especially millennials and Gen Z, prioritise a company’s culture and values when deciding where to work. By taking simple steps like providing period products, businesses can enhance their reputation and be seen as progressive, compassionate employers who understand the needs of their workforce.
Sustainability: A key consideration
Menstrual health in the workplace isn’t just about accessibility – it’s also about sustainability. The environmental impact of traditional period products is significant, with an estimated 200,000 tonnes of menstrual product waste generated annually in the UK. Many of these products contain plastic and synthetic materials, contributing to pollution.
By offering sustainable alternatives such as organic cotton pads, reusable menstrual cups, and period underwear, businesses can reduce waste while supporting their employees.
Retailers leading the way
Some retailers are already taking the lead in creating period-inclusive workplaces. FatFace has made free period products available to employees across all its UK and Republic of Ireland stores. The initiative has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from staff. Starbucks has also embraced period inclusivity by providing free menstrual products and normalising workplace conversations around menstrual health. CCS McLays, in collaboration with TOTM, has partnered with these retailers and others to implement inclusive, sustainable period care solutions.
As more companies adopt period-friendly practices, it’s clear that this approach has far-reaching benefits that go beyond employee satisfaction and wellbeing – they contribute to a more sustainable, responsible business model.
Setting the standard for inclusivity
Providing period products in the workplace isn’t just a progressive move – it’s a crucial step toward fostering a more engaged, productive, and loyal workforce. By prioritising menstrual health, retailers can create a workplace where no employee has to worry about something as natural as their period.
Beyond inclusivity, adopting sustainable period solutions also helps reduce environmental impact, reinforcing a commitment to both employees and the planet. Now is the time for retailers to take action and make menstrual health an integral part of workplace wellbeing.
Ian Hall is the CEO and founder of CCS McLays, the UK's leading provider of retail consumables, packaging, and catering supplies for retail brands and high street food outlets. Since founding the company in 2005, Ian has grown its customer base globally, with stores as far as Australia and New Zealand. Proudly based in Cardiff, Wales, CCS McLays currently employs 152 staff.
