'We believe that inclusion isn't optional'
Clothing retail company Gap Inc has been named the most diverse and inclusive organisation of 2021 after ranking first in Refinitiv's Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Index. The index lists 100 companies with the most diverse and inclusive workplaces - measured by 24 metrics across key categories, including diversity, inclusion, people development, and news controversies.
Sheila Peters, chief people officer of Gap Inc, said it’s an "honour" to place first.
"To be recognised as the #1 ranked company on the Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index is a great honour for Gap Inc. – one that has been 52 years in the making. We believe that inclusion isn't optional, and this recognition truly reinforces the importance of Gap Inc's core belief – that we all deserve to belong," Peters added.
Dave McKay, RBC president and CEO, also made a similar remark after placing second, adding that the company still has a long way to go.
"We are honoured to be recognised by Refinitiv and proud of the progress we've made, but we know that the move toward equality and fundamental change in our society has much further to go," said McKay.
Read more: On diversity and inclusion: Why the misfit may be the best fit
Other companies included in the top 10 are Owens Corning, Allianz SE, BlackRock Inc., Enel S.p.A., Coca Cola HBC AG, Kering SA, and Marriott International Inc. Meanwhile, the industry with the highest D&I score is software and information technology services after tallying the highest inclusion score. Globally, the US had the highest number of companies making it to the rankings with 25. The United Kingdom followed with nine, Australia, Italy, and Germany had six, while Canada, France, and South Africa had five. This year's list included 29 nations across the world.
