A shared future vision
Women in a canned seafood factory. Image: amorn/stock.adobe.com
This year’s International Women’s Day (8 March) theme is Give to Gain, which is all about encouraging a mindset of generosity and collaboration, two key attributes especially given today’s turbulent political landscape.
Thinking about #IWD2026 has me reflecting on how operating within two different industries – publishing and metal packaging – allows me a greater insight into the disparity between them. While the UK publishing industry is predominantly made up of women (68 per cent*), with them occupying an equal share in senior leadership roles, the UK packaging industry figures are more difficult to obtain, with sources citing various figures but all stating between 20 to 30 per cent of women in the workforce in lower paid roles. I’ve spoken about it before, but the scales between those working in an office environment and those on the manufacturing floor are definitely still imbalanced.
In addition, the contrast between mental and physical labour is something often targeted in misogynistic debates, whereas many studies have shown that women, (though often those in heteronormative relationships), take on much more unpaid physical labour in domestic spheres, in addition to the mental load. Basically, they’re doing too much, with not enough recognition or financial credit.
Over the four years I’ve been immersed in the metal packaging world, I have noticed an uptake in women securing more leaderships roles, but you do only need to take a look at the headshots on our ‘new appointments’ news stories to see that there’s still a long way to go. Walking factory floors on site visits reinforces the fact further.
That’s why championing these more physically-demanding roles as open to all is key, whether that’s in communications for career fairs, apprenticeships, or even social media posts promoting working in that field. The language used is key and must be all-encompassing.
Thankfully, the women who are in this industry are fierce pioneers for the future and their voices are definitely gaining exposure and reaching more people. The ‘Give to Gain’ message emphasises that offering knowledge, support and kindness is all about multiplication, not necessarily ‘giving something away’ or subtracting. Sharing really does encourage important change.
Collaboration is also such a key word for IWD, and one that actually went on my CanTech mood board for the year ahead (as I’ve noted before, there will be many business partnerships forged this year). On that topic, I’m very aware it’s usually just my voice on these kind of blogs, so in order to make it more inclusive in my small sphere, I asked some of the CanTech team, What does IWD mean to you and what change would you like to see in the next few years?
Sarah Hills, advertising manger: International Women’s Day, to me, is about recognising the role women play in every part of industry — even in spaces where we haven’t always been the most visible. Working in B2B publishing within manufacturing, I’m constantly inspired by the women around me and the different paths they’ve taken to make big impacts in this industry. It’s a reminder that progress comes from supporting one another, sharing experience, and making sure more voices are heard.
Aimee Carnell, events manager: I would like to see women have the same opportunities as men across all industries. While progress has been made, women in many fields still face inequality, including not receiving equal pay for the same roles. Continuing to push for fairness and opportunity will help create a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone.
Sophia Freeman, events sales manager: International Women’s Day is about celebrating the strength, grace and intelligence of women all over the world. It is about uplifting, supporting and being proud of what women can achieve. Nurturing, leading, inventing and fighting daily for equality. I want my daughter to grow up in a world where she believes that she can do anything she puts her mind to, without any barriers.
Brilliant sentiments and ones we surely all agree with. How will your company be supporting #IWD2026 and what changes have you made to make a positive impact? Do feel free to reach out and share your stories with us.
Alex Rivers (she/her), CanTech International editor
Keep in touch via email: [email protected], LinkedIn: CanTech International magazine or X: @CanTechIntl
