XPO Logistics awarded Gold for supporting UK Armed Forces.
- Company recognised as a ‘leading light’ for veteran support.
- 200+ personnel at XPO are veterans or military affiliates.
- Initiatives include extra leave and support for mobilised staff.
- XPO partners with Veteran charities for workforce integration.
In a significant commendation, XPO Logistics has received the Gold Award from the Armed Forces Covenant’s Employer Recognition Scheme. This accolade highlights the company’s role as a ‘leading light’ in veteran support across its operations, setting a benchmark in championing the cause of armed forces personnel.
XPO has made substantial efforts to integrate military personnel into its workforce, accommodating over 200 individuals in the United Kingdom alone who are either veterans, military spouses, reservists, or cadet force adult volunteers. This inclusive employment strategy spans various roles, illustrating the diverse capabilities veterans bring to the workplace.
Beyond employment, XPO’s commitment extends to supporting its forces-involved staff in practical ways. Since 2021, the company has facilitated mobilisation for reservists, offering pre-deployment meetings with line managers and return-to-work interviews to discuss transferable skills acquired during deployment. Such initiatives exemplify XPO’s holistic approach to valuing military experience.
The company’s policies are further enriched by engaging with local Unit Employer Support Officers to explore additional support opportunities. Reservists benefit from ten extra days of leave, while military spouses receive three additional days annually to accommodate deployment-related family responsibilities.
Moreover, XPO’s involvement extends to participating in events that enhance understanding of the dual commitments faced by its employees. This insight has prompted a review of company policies, particularly in awarding extra holiday allocation to cadet force volunteers, showing adaptability to the needs of its workforce.
XPO has also pledged support for various fundraising and logistics projects aiding cadet force operations, further cementing its engagement with armed forces communities. Frederick Hopkins, representing the East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, praised XPO as a leader in offering comprehensive support to its military-affiliated staff.
Lynn Brown, XPO’s vice president of human resources for the UK and Ireland, highlighted the collective company efforts in understanding the pressures on armed forces colleagues. The appointment of Chris Green as a director-level Armed Forces Champion signifies the prioritisation of defence support within the company’s ethos.
XPO’s initiatives exemplify a dedicated approach to integrating and supporting the armed forces within its operational framework.
