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The initiative, which is being adopted by a growing number of media organisations, uses data to help publishers move towards ensuring an even split of coverage between male and female voices.
In 2019, Independent Retail News publisher Emap became one of the first organisations outside the BBC to get involved in 50:50. It now has 13 brands actively encouraging female representation in their published content.
Éilis Cronin, content editor for IRN, said: “We are thrilled to be part of the 50:50 project. For too long the independent convenience sector has been dominated by men, whether that be at trade shows, awards nights or in magazine articles, despite there being an ever-growing number of women retailers making a significant contribution to the industry.
“It is so important for us as a leading publication to champion these women and amplify their voices in any way we can.”
Miranda Holt, external partners lead for the BBC’s 50:50 Equality Project, said: “We’re so excited that Independent Retail News is the latest title from the Emap empire to implement 50:50.
“They join 700 BBC teams and 126 companies around the world who follow this simple way of counting data to effect change.
“By increasing the number of women featured in content of this kind – especially in the retail industry that affects so many people trying to manage their businesses during this time of Covid – we better reflect the society we live in.”
Martin Quinn, 50:50 project lead for Emap, said: “I am delighted that Independent Retail News has become the 13th title within Emap to join the 50:50 project.
“It is great to see Independent Retail News looking to give a voice to and encourage more female voices within the industry, and this is a great way to showcase more women retailers.”
The move by Independent Retail News follows the formation last week of a support network for women running independent convenience stores, under the auspices of leading trade body the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS).
The group aims to allow female retailers to share their experiences and perspectives.
Although women make up one-third of convenience store owners and 70% of staff, they are under-represented on boards, committees and in the press, as well as having a lower profile at trade events and conferences, according to a recent report by Independent Retail News.
Visit the BBC website to read more about 50:50 The Equality Project.
