A NEW survey of more than 600 women across the whisky industry has revealed the extent of sexism still rife in the sector, with respondents reporting discrimination and inappropriate physical behaviour.
The survey – titled ‘Do You Even Like Whisky? – was carried out by the Our Whisky Foundation, a non-profit organisation supporting women in the whisky industry.
It found that, of the 600 women polled, 80% had been asked by both colleagues and consumers if they even like the spirit, with 89% saying consumers still widely perceive whisky to be a ‘man’s drink’.
Only 15% of respondents believed the industry was doing enough to change that perception.
A huge proportion of respondents – 80% – worked in roles where they are required to host tastings or tours. Of those respondents, 89% said they had been spoken over or had their knowledge questioned while conducting a tasting, with 83% having experienced a customer preferring to talk to a male colleague.
Perhaps most worrying of all, 70% of all respondents said they had experienced inappropriate or sexual remarks while doing their job, with 33% – a third of respondents – having been inappropriately touched. Among those working in consumer-facing roles that figure rose to 44%.
“While the industry appears to be taking steps towards inclusion and better representation, this survey clearly shows women feel they aren’t supported enough,” said foundation founder, Becky Paskin.
These issues were amongst those addressed at SLTN’s first In Conversation with SLTN event.
