The benefits of an equal organization

Why companies in the wood and furniture sector are working on equality

Bringing different ages, genders and origins into the business naturally brings different ways of looking at work. In the long run, this leads to a more innovative workplace.

Within the network Tillverka i trä , Innovatum Science Park has commissioned a report from CSR West Sweden to get a current picture of how companies in Tillverka i Trä och Trämöbelföretagen (TMF) work with gender equality and equality.

The report is based on a mix of in-depth interviews and survey responses from 26 companies in the Tillverka i trä and TMF. The companies that indicated that they had integrated equality into the systematic work of their business said that they wanted to be an attractive employer for future generations and achieve more efficient operations.

Businesses on the benefits of equality work

"The job is a heavy and physical one and when women join, new practices emerge which improve operations. Women tend to have to think a little more about workplace injuries, which has helped everyone to reduce the risk of workplace injuries."

"Women often question and highlight what is 'in the walls' of the company, which develops the company in a positive direction."

"There will be a kinder attitude with more women in the company, while only women or only men would not be preferable, but an equal mix is what benefits the company the most."

"We have recruited a higher proportion of women and more people
of different ethnicities and backgrounds to the company in recent years. This has enriched the business through great conversations in the canteens, laughter, culture and different religions. The workplace can become a
gateway for a place to meet people beyond your own circle and that the company can ultimately
benefit from that and how that in itself can reduce fear and instead create security."

"We have more fun in the workplace when we are a mixed company
by religion, ethnicity and gender."

More innovative workplaces

- By bringing different ages, genders, origins into your activities and daily work, you naturally get different views on problems and work. In the long run, this leads to a more innovative workplace. When a group of like-minded people of the same gender and age look at an issue, you don't get as many different perspectives on the problem or question as in a less homogeneous group," says Innovatum's project manager Emelie Hennström.

In early March, the report with lessons learned and good examples was presented during the event Equality work in wood companies - click on the button below to access the recorded webinar in full.