Have you ever wondered what makes a logistics company truly competitive in today's world? Beyond state-of-the-art technology and efficient processes, the real engine of innovation lies in the people who make up each link of the chain. This sector is traditionally perceived as technical and operational, here the human factor appears as the fundamental piece that transforms challenges into opportunities.
The strategic value of diversity: More than a trend, a competitive advantage.
Imagine a table where only one voice is heard. Now, visualize that same table surrounded by people with different experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. Which one would generate better solutions? The answer seems obvious, and the numbers bear it out.
According to a recent Gartner survey, nearly half (49%) of supply chain organizations have already integrated formal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) objectives into their strategy, an impressive jump from 27% just a year ago. This shift is in response to tangible benefits that companies are experiencing.
The number of supply chain organizations with formal ISD goals has increased markedly year over year, from 27% in 2022 to 49% in 2023, the Gartner report reveals, noting that the top motivations include attracting new talent (68%), employee retention (64%) and improving business performance (58%). (Article - The Logistics World)
Building Bridges of Inclusion: The Solistica Experience
When we talk about inclusion in logistics, we are not referring to superficial initiatives or temporary campaigns. We are talking about transforming organizational culture from the ground up, creating spaces where everyone can contribute their talents without barriers. This is the philosophy that has driven Solistica to develop programs that genuinely connect with the needs of diverse groups.
"In our day-to-day work, we live the commitment to create an environment where every individual feels valued and respected, regardless of their origin, gender, sexual orientation or abilities," the company shares in its 2023 Sustainability Report. "This vision allows us to implement actions that truly make a difference."
Breaking the silence: When gestures speak louder than words.
Have you ever tried to communicate in a language you don't know? Now imagine that language is your only form of expression. For many hearing impaired people, this is their daily reality in work environments that are not adapted to their needs.
In partnership with the organization ATEAL, the Solistica team implemented a Brazilian Sign Language Course (Libras) that has trained 20 recruitment professionals. This initiative not only facilitates more inclusive selection processes, but also creates a permanent communication bridge with employees who are hearing impaired.
"Seeing how our recruiters can now communicate directly with hearing impaired candidates and employees has transformed the dynamics of our processes. It's not just about meeting a quota, it's about generating real human connections," comments one program participant. (Infographic - Solistica)
Silver Wisdom: The Incomparable Value of Experience
Today, many companies overlook an invaluable resource: the experience that only comes with age. Through the "50+ at Solistica" initiative, the company has integrated 368 employees over the age of 50 during 2023, reaching a total of 1,117 people in this segment, representing 13% of its total talent.
Ana María, operations coordinator who joined the program at age 54, shares: "Many companies saw my age as a disadvantage, but here I found a space where my experience is valued. The generational mix in the teams generates an exchange of knowledge that benefits everyone."
This generational diversity combats stereotypes; it also enriches decision-making with complementary perspectives: the innovation and energy of the young is enhanced by the wisdom and temperance of those who have come further along the road. (Infographic - Solistica)
Opening doors: When inclusion transforms lives
The PCD Apprentice Program goes beyond meeting legal requirements to become a true facilitator of change. During 2023, five people with disabilities found in Solistica an opportunity to develop their full professional potential.
At the same time, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the company has integrated 30 refugees into its teams, actively contributing to the goal of benefiting more than 27,000 refugees in Latin America by 2027.
These actions are part of a comprehensive strategy that includes more than 100 thousand hours of training in human rights, sustainability and inclusive leadership, with more than 29 thousand collaborator participations. (Infographic - Solistica)
Numbers that speak: The tangible impact of diverse teams
Does diversity really impact the bottom line? The data is clear. Organizations with diverse teams are 35% more likely to financially outperform their homogeneous competitors.
Cognitive diversity-different ways of thinking, analyzing problems and proposing solutions-acts as an innovation accelerator. When people with different experiences and perspectives collaborate, solutions emerge that no homogeneous group could conceive.
"Diverse teams are natural laboratories of innovation," explains one human capital specialist. "Differences, when properly valued and channeled, generate creative friction that elevates collective thinking." (Blog- Bayton)
Breaking down walls: The pending challenge of gender equity.
Logistics has historically been a predominantly male domain. According to Gartner and AWESOME's "Women in Supply Chain" research, women made up just 39% of the total supply chain workforce in North America in 2022, down 3% from the previous year.
Elena, operations supervisor at Solistica, recalls, "When I started, I was the only woman on the warehouse management team. Today I lead a mixed team where talent, not gender, is what defines performance."
To transform this reality, it is essential to implement concrete actions such as recruitment processes based exclusively on competencies, parity policies and programs that facilitate work-family reconciliation, such as flexible schedules for mothers and fathers with young children.
"It's not just about hiring more women," clarifies an industry executive, "it's about transforming the culture so that all people, regardless of gender, can fully develop their potential." (Blog- Bayton)
Weaving the Future: More Humane and Inclusive Logistics
The journey toward truly inclusive logistics is just beginning. Pioneering companies like Solistica are demonstrating that a commitment to diversity is a real competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global market.
Recognition as a “child-friendly company” by the Brazilian Association of Playgrounds (ABRINQ) is yet another example of how this commitment transcends operational boundaries to positively impact the communities where Solistica operates. (Infographic - Solistica)
An invitation to transform logistics together
Diversity is the way. Every day brings us the opportunity to build more inclusive, humane and innovative supply chains. Are you ready to be part of this transformation?
On this journey, having partners who share these values makes all the difference. Imagine collaborating with a team that enriches the logistics operation with multiple perspectives and experiences. A partner who firmly believes that the best solutions are born when all voices are heard.
Connect with us today and let's explore together the transformative potential of a supply chain where every person counts, every talent matters and every difference adds up.
