'Sobering' survey uncovers sexism in the whisky industry
A survey by the OurWhisky Foundation revealed the extent of the issue
A third of women working in the whisky industry have been touched inappropriately at work, according to the OurWhisky Foundation.
That comes alongside 70% saying they have experienced inappropriate or sexual comments while at work.
In the first ever global survey of women working in the sector, it was revealed there are “widespread examples of unconscious bias” and “micro-aggressions” against women.
The foundation is warning these could have a “devastating impact” if allowed to build up over time.
"Devastating impact"
Founder Becky Paskin said: “The escalation of these attitudes into inappropriate verbal and physical behaviour cannot be ignored.
"The industry needs to take this issue extremely seriously."
The Do You Even Like Whisky? survey found 27% of women working in the sector for five years or less had been touched inappropriately, indicating the problem is not an historic one.
It also revealed 33% of the more than 600 women who were questioned said they had been touched inappropriately - with this rising to 44% among those working in consumer-facing roles, such as brand ambassadors, and staff in retail and hospitality.
"Do you even like whisky"
The vast majority of those surveyed said consumers still widely perceived whisky to be a "man's drink", with this being reflected in the attitudes towards women in the industry.
Ms Paskin said: "Being spoken over, having your knowledge questioned or being asked if you actually like whisky are common occurrences for women working in whisky.
She added: "While the industry appears to be taking steps towards inclusion and better representation, this survey clearly shows women feel they aren't supported enough.
"It's important to realise that while it's perhaps easy to shrug off a solo incident, these micro aggressions build up over time to have a devastating impact on the women in our industry."
"Sobering"
Head of content and the develop programmes at the OurWhisky Foundation, said: "The results of this survey dispel any argument that there isn't a sexism issue in our industry.
"While 'it's not as bad as it used to be' - an argument often used to dismiss the issue - these issues are very real for women working in whisky right now.”
She added: "Luckily, there are tangible solutions that can be implemented by businesses to counteract these issues and actively reduce those numbers.
"If change is ever going to happen, leaders and decisionmakers need to sit up and take action - this is something we need to act on now."