Implementing a Free Period Program in a Large Financial Services Corporation

Overview

The following case study examines the successful initiative undertaken by a Fortune 500 financial services corporation to install free period product dispensers across 1,200 restrooms nationwide and to provide period products to all employees free of charge. This strategic move aimed to enhance employee well-being, promote inclusivity, and create a more supportive and equitable workplace environment.

Challenges Prior to Implementation

Before the implementation of this initiative, the corporation identified several areas for improvement concerning employee well-being and workplace inclusivity related to menstrual health:

• Employee Feedback: Unexpected periods at work often caused employees inconvenience and discomfort, which decreased productivity and morale.
• Lack of Accessibility: Period products were not readily available in restrooms, forcing employees to either purchase them from coin-operated machines (if available) or leave the premises.
• Equity Concerns: Some employees perceived the absence of free, accessible period products as a lack of consideration for a fundamental health need, creating an inequitable environment compared to other provided amenities.
• Stigma: A general lack of open discussion around menstrual health contributed to a sense of stigma within the workplace.

Strategies Implemented

To address these challenges, the corporation adopted a comprehensive strategy focused on accessibility, communication, and long-term sustainability:

1. Extensive Product and Dispenser Selection

• Supplier Partnership: Collaborated with Aunt Flow to deploy high-quality, eco-friendly period products (pads and tampons) and ADA-compliant, user-friendly dispensers.
• Dispenser Placement: Conducted thorough audits of all 1,200 restrooms (targeted female and gender-neutral facilities at owned and triple-net leased locations) to determine optimal placement for maximum accessibility and visibility.

2. Phased Rollout and Logistics

• Pilot Program: Initiated a pilot program in a high-density facility to test dispenser functionality, product demand, and logistical efficiency.
• Full Implementation: Implemented a thoughtful installation schedule across all global facilities to minimize disruption and ensure smooth deployment. In-house and outsourced resources were used depending on the size of the facility and the number of dispensers.
• Inventory Management: Developed a robust inventory management system to ensure consistent stock levels and efficient replenishment of products across all locations. This included close collaboration with the facilities teams to ensure the custodial staff was properly trained on restocking the dispensers and keeping the appropriate inventory level.

3. Comprehensive Communication and Awareness Campaign

• Internal Communication: Launched an internal communication campaign through company newsletters, intranet announcements, and tenant advisory meetings to inform employees about the new initiative.
• Educational Materials: Provided clear signage and educational materials in restrooms explaining the availability of free products and promoting menstrual health awareness, as well as the partnership with Aunt Flow.
• Feedback Mechanism: Utilized a dedicated feedback channel for employees to report any issues or provide suggestions related to the dispensers and products.

4. Employee Engagement and Inclusivity Training

The following additional steps were not taken during this rollout but were identified as opportunities during the after-action review of the program implementation:

• Manager Training: Conduct training for managers on fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, including discussions on menstrual health and breaking down associated stigmas.
• Employee Resource Group (ERG) Collaboration: Partner with relevant ERGs (e.g., Women’s ERG, Diversity & Inclusion ERG) to gather insights and promote the initiative.
• Period Party: Host your very own Period Party to foster community engagement and celebrate your organization’s period program launch. Gather employees and community volunteers to pack period kits for distribution to a local non-profit supporting menstruators in need.

Results and Impact

The implementation of free period product dispensers yielded significant positive outcomes for the corporation and its employees:

• Enhanced Employee Well-being and Productivity: Employees reported feeling more supported and less stressed, particularly during unexpected menstrual cycles. This contributed to a more focused and productive workforce.
• Increased Employee Satisfaction: Survey results and anecdotal feedback indicated a significant increase in overall employee satisfaction and morale, with many employees expressing appreciation for the corporation’s commitment to their well-being.
• Promotion of Inclusivity: The initiative was widely praised as a progressive step towards creating a truly inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and supported, regardless of their gender or biological needs.
• Reduced Stigma: The open provision of period products contributed to a more open dialogue around menstrual health, helping to reduce associated stigma within the workplace.
• Positive Brand Image: The corporation received positive external recognition for its commitment to employee well-being and gender equity, enhancing its reputation as a socially responsible employer.

Employee Testimonial

After 10 years with the company, I left in 2022 and returned back to the team last September. On my first day back in the office, I found myself scrambling for a tampon because my period decided to make a surprise visit. Imagine my joy (and relief, honestly!) when I walked in the bathroom and saw the Aunt Flow dispenser. Sure, we had products available in the bathroom before, but these… between the cute, eye-catching packaging and sustainability element, this is just an elevated experience all around! I’m obsessed. As a period product user and customer experience enthusiast, THANK YOU for bringing this awesome program into our workplace.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of free period product dispensers across 1,200 restrooms and the provision of free products to employees demonstrate the profound impact that proactive measures can have on employee well-being, workplace inclusivity, and overall corporate culture. This case study highlights the importance of addressing fundamental employee needs to foster a supportive and equitable environment, ultimately leading to a more satisfied, productive, and loyal workforce. The corporation’s commitment to this initiative serves as a model for other organizations seeking to prioritize the holistic well-being of their employees.