A Shared Vision, A Greater Impact: Breaking Gender Barriers in Logistics

The logistics industry has traditionally been perceived as a male-dominated sector, particularly when it comes to operational roles involving heavy equipment and on-site activities. Maersk and Aitken Spence Logistics (ASL) are taking a meaningful step towards changing that perception by creating opportunities for women to participate in roles that have historically been considered unconventional for them.

As part of their commitment to diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity, ASL, in collaboration with Maersk, has introduced female forklift operators at its Container Freight Station (CFS) operations in Sri Lanka. The initiative began in 2024 with eight young women and has since become an established part of the operation. This represents a pioneering initiative within the local logistics industry, with women being given the opportunity to operate forklifts within a professional CFS environment.

For Maersk and ASL, inclusion is about creating real opportunities for people to participate, develop skills and build careers across different areas of the logistics value chain. The introduction of female forklift operators is a tangible example of this approach. It demonstrates how collaboration between a global shipping line and its logistics partner can turn an idea into a practical workplace initiative.

“At Maersk, we believe that inclusion is about creating genuine opportunities for people to build skills, grow in confidence and pursue careers without being limited by traditional perceptions. When I first discussed this concept with Janaka Gunawardena, his immediate openness and understanding of the opportunity, and his willingness to turn the idea into reality, were instrumental in making this initiative possible. Our collaboration with Aitken Spence Logistics demonstrates how a shared vision and the right leadership commitment can translate into meaningful change on the ground. Seeing women successfully take on operational roles such as forklift operations is a powerful reminder that capability has no gender. We are proud to support this journey and hope it inspires more women to see logistics as an industry where they can build rewarding careers and create new possibilities for them and their families,” said Biju Ravi, Maersk Country Manager – Sri Lanka & Maldives.

“This initiative sends a clear message to women considering careers in logistics that opportunities exist for them across the industry, including in operational roles that may traditionally have been perceived as unsuitable or inaccessible. Seeing women operating forklifts in a professional CFS environment helps challenge these perceptions and can inspire the next generation to explore careers in warehousing, transportation, supply chain management and other operational functions.” said Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairman/Chairperson and Interim Managing Director of Aitken Spence PLC.

“The Pink Warehouse represents our belief that the future of logistics should be shaped by capability and opportunity, rather than traditional perceptions of the roles women can take on. This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations are willing to create opportunities and invest in people. Their commitment and willingness to learn have reinforced our confidence in their potential and in continuing to invest in their development. Most importantly, the value of this initiative extends beyond our operations. It is about creating greater confidence, independence and possibilities for women and their families, while contributing to a broader change in how the industry views women in operational roles,” said Janaka Gunawardena, Chief Executive Officer of Aitken Spence Logistics.