Co-op Introduces Collaborative Framework to Guide Organisations in Building Fairer and More Inclusive Workplaces

Co-op Introduces Collaborative Framework to Guide Organisations in Building Fairer and More Inclusive Workplaces

(IN BRIEF) Co-op has launched a free Gender Pay Gap Toolkit with WiHTL & DiR to help organisations move from reporting disparities to implementing concrete actions that support pay equity. The resource provides guidance on identifying the causes of gender pay gaps, improving hiring and progression practices, supporting employee wellbeing and measuring long-term progress, drawing on insights from across Co-op’s supply chain and industry partners. The initiative is intended to help businesses prepare for stronger regulatory expectations from 2027 while encouraging cross-sector collaboration to create more inclusive workplaces.

(PRESS RELEASE) MANCHESTER, 18-Feb-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Co-op has introduced a new Gender Pay Gap Toolkit developed in partnership with WiHTL & Diversity in Retail (DiR), providing organisations with practical resources to help address pay disparities and drive measurable workplace change.

The toolkit is designed to support employers looking to move beyond statutory reporting requirements and take targeted action to close gender pay gaps. It offers step-by-step guidance on analysing underlying causes, building effective action plans, strengthening recruitment and progression pathways, and tracking improvements over time.

Created in collaboration with suppliers across Co-op’s supply chain and members of the WiHTL & DiR network, the resource draws on real-world experiences and practical interventions. It includes recommendations on inclusive hiring practices, mentoring and sponsorship programmes, flexible working arrangements, parental and carers’ policies, and initiatives addressing menopause, menstrual health and workplace safety for women.

The toolkit is available free of charge and aims to help organisations prepare for anticipated enhancements to gender pay gap action plan requirements expected to take effect from 2027. By encouraging shared learning and collaboration across industries, the initiative seeks to accelerate progress toward fairer pay outcomes and more inclusive working environments.

Co-op plans to build on this work by publishing a separate Supplier Gender Pay Gap Report later in 2026, bringing together insights from businesses participating in its responsible sourcing programme.

Co-op Group is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, operating across food retail, funerals, insurance and legal services and owned by millions of active members. WiHTL & DiR is a collaboration community focused on advancing inclusion and equitable opportunity across the hospitality, travel, leisure and retail sectors.

Media Contacts:

Russ Brady, 07880 784442, russ.brady@coop.co.uk

Cat Turner, 07834 090783, catherine.turner@coop.co.uk

SOURCE: Co-operative Group Limited