WiW launches online Menopause Café to improve education and support

Women in Wholesale (WiW) has launched an online Menopause Café in response to sector specific requests for more education and support around menopause in the workplace.

A recent WiW Menopause Survey of over 100 respondents revealed that 76% of women who are experiencing menopause struggle with mental symptoms at work, including brain fog and hormonal changes. Additionally, 51% reported emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression, while 46% faced physical issues such as hot flushes and weight gain.

Many respondents shared discomfort in speaking openly about their symptoms. Notably, 88% expressed interest in attending an online menopause meet-up, with 68% wanting to understand menopause to better support their teams, even if not personally affected.

WiW has teamed up with Mondelez, renowned for their efforts in workplace menopause support, to launch the online café.

The sessions will be hosted by Michelle Painton, R&D enterprise health, safety & environment lead at Mondelez International. “Since 2019, we’ve offered an array of menopause resources including managers and colleagues guides, cafes, champions, and training to help our colleagues successfully navigate the menopause. This has made colleagues feel more supported and, in turn, has gained us the 2024 Food and Drink Federation HR Initiative award. We’re excited to share our journey with WiW,” she said.

WiW Menopause Café – session dates and links 

The WiW Menopause Sessions are taking place on the following dates. The sessions are open to all people working in convenience and foodservice wholesale.

Intro & Coping with Mood Swings, Anxiety & Depression

12 December 2024, 10am-11am, Join here.

Actionable Adjustments in the Workplace 

13 March 2025, 10am-11am Join here

How to Support Your Colleagues 

12 June 2025, 10am-11am Join here

Dietary Tips and Nutrition 

11 September 2025, 10am-11am Join here