Maersk transforms a warehouse at its Chennai CFS into an all-women-operated facility

A.P. Moller - Maersk has announced the transformation of one of its warehouses at the Container Freight Station (CFS) in Ponneri, Chennai, into a women-operated facility, coinciding with the station’s 15th anniversary. This strategic move will see an entire shift operated exclusively by women, marking a significant step in Maersk's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The initiative aligns with India’s goal of providing equal employment opportunities for women, even in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

The 125,000-square-foot warehouse will employ women in all operational roles, including loading/unloading, picking, surveying, security, housekeeping, administration, and forklift operations. This will increase the representation of women at the CFS from 3% to 13% of the total workforce, with women making up 21% of the workforce in the newly transformed warehouse.

"This transformation isn't just about changing our operations; it's about challenging the status quo and setting new standards in the logistics industry. Following the remarkable success of our first women-operated warehouse in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh, we are confident that this initiative will not only enhance operational excellence but also create meaningful employment opportunities for women in Chennai's logistics sector."

- Christopher Cook, Managing Director, Maersk South Asia

The initiative builds on Maersk's successful experience at its Dadri facility, which was the first of its kind to be fully operated by women, demonstrating improved productivity and operational efficiency. To ensure the success of the new women-operated warehouse in Ponneri, Maersk has implemented comprehensive training programs covering customs procedures, material handling, and both professional and personal safety. The company has also focused on developing the specific competencies needed for CFS operations, enabling women to thrive in roles traditionally dominated by men.

This transformation comes at a significant time as Maersk celebrates its century-long presence in India. The company's commitment to Tamil Nadu extends beyond business operations, with its Global Service Centre employing over 3,000 professionals and partnering with institutions like AMET University to train the next generation of seafarers.

As part of the 15th anniversary celebrations and the announcement of the all-women-operated shift at the warehouse, Maersk also donated laptops to the Government Higher Secondary School in Annupampatu, near Ponneri, where the Maersk CFS and warehouses are located, giving back to the local community.