CCS McLays Help Retailers Create Period-Friendly Workplace

CCS McLays, in collaboration with TOTM, is at the forefront of creating period-friendly workplaces across the retail sector. By supplying sustainable and high-quality period products to leading retailers such as FatFace, Superdry, Starbucks, Hugo Boss, and Joules, CCS McLays and TOTM are transforming workplace environments. This initiative is not only promoting comfort and dignity at work but also championing sustainability.

FatFace, a renowned British lifestyle clothing and accessories retailer, has been a pivotal partner in this mission. For the past year FatFace have been providing TOTM period products in all its stores across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, positively impacting the lives of countless employees.

“Providing free period products in the workplace has been a game-changer,” says one employee. “It has removed the stress of being caught off-guard and has created a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.”

FatFace People Director Joanne Wilson says ‘feedback from our colleagues has been overwhelmingly positive. For us being a period positive workplace is such an important part of our culture. By providing free sanitary products in an overt location, we hope to educate our people and help normalize the conversation around menstruation.’

One store colleague shares “knowing that my workplace cares about my comfort and well-being makes a huge difference. It’s one less thing to worry about during the workday.”

Despite significant progress, many workplaces still lack adequate provisions for menstrual health. A recent study found that 80% of women and people with periods are concerned about managing their periods at work, with 76% finding it disruptive to their working day. The availability of period products in the workplace can significantly reduce this stress, leading to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.

Sustainability is a key driver behind TOTM’s product line. Traditional period care products are predominantly made from plastic, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. TOTM’s tampons, pads, and liners are crafted from 100% organic cotton, responsibly sourced, and free from harmful chemicals such as fragrances, dyes, artificial absorbents, chlorine bleach, and PFAs. This commitment to sustainability is crucial as the UK alone generates approximately 200,000 tonnes of menstrual product waste annually, with an estimated 1.5 billion period care items flushed down the toilet each year.

Retailers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions for their stores. Starbucks, for instance, has been providing free TOTM products to staff for about 18 months, following research that highlighted significant concerns among women and people with periods regarding period management at work.

The partnership between CCS McLays and FatFace is just the beginning. Currently, over 180 FatFace stores in the UK and the Republic of Ireland offer TOTM products back of house, however, there is always more to be done.

The collaboration between CCS McLays and TOTM is setting a powerful example for other retailers to follow. By prioritising menstrual health and sustainability, they are creating more inclusive and environmentally friendly workplaces. FatFace’s success demonstrates the tangible benefits of such initiatives, paving the way for a more supportive and sustainable future in the retail sector.