Diversity

Within the United Kingdom (UK) our culture, working patterns and buying habits continue to change rapidly alongside our changing demographics. Our family and societal norms are also changing dramatically and probably more rapidly than many anticipated.

We fully understand that it's essential for us to attract and retain diverse employees and customers from all sectors of the community if we're going to remain competitive. We serve the whole community and our ability to respond to the needs of all our customers is clearly enhanced, if our own community within Boots UK is equally diverse. Recruiting, retaining and promoting diverse employees is critical to our success in this rapidly changing marketplace.

For us, diversity means much more than legal compliance. We're pursuing an integrated business strategy that touches all corners of our organisation, from our stores and pharmacies through to our logistics and support functions. Nowhere in our organisation remains un-touched.

Of the people we employ, around 12% come from an ethnic minority background. However this is not reflected at all levels in Boots UK and work continues to address this. We have diversity policies relating to gender, race, religion, belief, age, disability and sexual orientation. These policies are constantly reviewed in light of changes in legislation and best practice, as well as the changing demographics and make-up of our society.

Number of employees (as at 31st March 2009) - 70,890

Employees by type

By contract type