A GROUNDBREAKING survey conducted by the team behind the British Business Excellence Awards (www.britishbusinessexcellenceawards.co.uk) have uncovered a significant trend in the remote work landscape: women are leading the charge as successful remote workers, surpassing men in both productivity and overall satisfaction with remote work arrangements.

The survey, encompassing more than 2,300 UK adults in full-time employment (a 50/50 split of men and women), revealed a striking trend: over two thirds of employees (69%) perceive female remote workers as more productive than their male counterparts. Contrary to traditional assumptions, women are not only adapting to remote work, but thriving in it.

Additionally, over three-quarters of women (76%) reported increased productivity since transitioning to remote work, compared to 54% of men. This shift in productivity is closely tied to work-life balance, with 72% of women indicating an improved balance since working remotely, compared to 58% of men.

Female remote workers also stood out in terms of approachability and support, with a staggering three-quarters of respondents (75%) perceiving female colleagues as more approachable in the virtual workspace. This accessibility and support contribute to a more cohesive and connected remote work environment.

In a reflection of the evolving priorities in the business world, over half of men (54%) and three-fifths of women (61%) believe that female remote workers are more progressive when it comes to sustainability and environmental initiatives. Women in remote roles were perceived as having a stronger focus on implementing sustainable practices and promoting eco-consciousness in their virtual teams.

Conversely, the survey highlighted a perception that male remote workers are more comfortable with embracing technology and artificial intelligence (AI), with 78% of men and 61% of women expressing this view. This suggests that male remote workers are seen as driving digital transformation and leveraging tech tools more readily in the virtual workspace.

Sarah Austin, Director of the Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards, commented:

“These findings challenge traditional norms and underline the importance of fostering an inclusive work environment where all employees, especially women, can thrive. The data clearly shows that women bring unique strengths to remote work, contributing to higher productivity, improved work-life balance, and a focus on sustainability.

“The survey underscores the significant advantages of supporting and promoting women in remote work settings. As businesses continue to navigate the remote work landscape, understanding and leveraging the strengths of female remote workers can lead to enhanced productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall success.”

LIDL GB has disclosed a coveted list of locations for new stores across Wales, prominently featuring Pembroke Dock among other key Welsh towns such as Newport, Cardiff, and Brecon. This announcement is part of the retailer’s broader strategy to inaugurate hundreds of new outlets throughout Great Britain, a plan that promises to generate thousands of jobs and revitalize local economies.

As Lidl marks its 30th anniversary since launching its first store, the company not only celebrates a historic market share peak of 8% but also reflects on a year of substantial infrastructural investments. These initiatives include the unveiling of the largest global distribution centre in Luton and the expansion of the Welsh distribution hub in Bridgend, alongside enhancements at the Belvedere warehouse which is set to double in capacity upon completion.

Richard Taylor, Lidl GB’s Chief Development Officer, elaborated on the company’s ambitious growth trajectory. “With significant investments fortifying our operations and a series of strategic store enhancements, our market position has never been stronger,” he stated. Taylor highlighted the brand’s ongoing status as the fastest-growing bricks and mortar supermarket for seven consecutive months, underscoring its relentless pursuit of operational excellence and commitment to affordability.

The proposed expansion into Pembroke Dock is poised to bring high-quality, affordable groceries closer to more households, aligning with Lidl’s mission to make good food accessible to all. The move is expected to attract a larger customer base, boosting Lidl’s market presence even further.

In pursuit of suitable sites, Lidl is offering incentives such as a finder’s fee for identifying viable locations, which includes 1.5% of the total freehold purchase price or 10% of the first year’s rent for leaseholds. Ideal sites would be prominent, easily accessible, and have substantial traffic or pedestrian flow, accommodating stores between 18,000 and 26,500 square feet with ample parking.

The strategic choice of Pembroke Dock reflects Lidl’s investment in regions with growth potential, ensuring that the benefits of its expansion are felt widely across Wales and beyond. As the retailer continues to explore innovative expansion avenues, the future looks promising for both Lidl and the communities it serves.

MOTORISTS driving through Narberth were caught in long delays last Friday.

Some drivers reported being stuck in the town centre snarl up for more than an hour as congestion built on the one-way system and approach roads.

The problem was so bad that it featured on travel reports broadcast on BBC Radio.

County Councillor for Narberth, Marc Tierney said that he had raised concerns over additional traffic build ups before the temporary closure of Redstone Road with Council officers and Dyfed Powys Police but was unable to confirm the exact cause of the delays last week.

Redstone Road will remain closed for a further couple of weeks at its current junction with the A40, as work continues on the multi-million pound, EU-funded Llanddewi Velfrey to Redstone Cross by-pass scheme.

Cllr Tierney said: “Residents and businesses were severely impacted by the gridlock that brought Narberth to a standstill for hours last Friday afternoon. Traffic has been a little heavier during peak times due to Redstone Road being closed, but thankfully both the weekend closure of the A40 and Redstone closure have been managed well so far by the contractors, Griffiths Ltd and Pembrokeshire County Council.”

With the bank holiday weekend approaching, Cllr Tierney is reminding residents and businesses of the possibility of further delays and is asking motorists to be considerate when driving through the town:

“We know that traffic can be a problem in Narberth and I’ve shared my concerns on this incident with the relevant organisations. I’d ask that all motorists travelling through town be considerate of other road users especially whilst Redstone Road remains closed and as we approach a busy bank holiday weekend.”