An investigation into the relationship between gender equality and workplace performance, financial growth and employee satisfaction in the retail sector

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to investigate gender equality in the retail sector and whether it has a relationship with an organisations performance and financial gain. This research helps gain perspectives from employees that work in the retail sector. This study also assists the reader in gaining a deeper understanding of gender equality and how it affects males and females in the workplace. The aims of this study will be achieved through the survey results and interview responses, the literature review will assist in analysing the results. Design/methodology/approach: This study utilises a mixed methods approach, 51 responses were gained through the survey electronically followed by six unstructured interview responses from individuals that work in the retail sector. Findings: The results from the data analysis concluded that participants felt there is a good level of gender equality practices in the workplace. It is noteworthy to indicate that participants from the interviews did not reveal any negative information about gender equality based through their experiences; this is a representation of the majority of the sample size. Research limitations: The researcher was faced with limitations such as the sample size being too small and the research objectives for this study proved to be too broad, therefore not all objectives were achieved. There was also a lack of validity in the study due to a lack of retail employee responses.Practical implications: This study provides an insight on how gender equality relates to performance and financial gain. It also provides a link to which gender equality and profitability for an organisation can be achieved. This study provides data that can assist in increasing profitability for an organisation and increase workplace satisfaction. Paper type: Research paper