Equal Measures CIC continued to deliver activities in 2025 focused on improving equity, diversity and inclusion within the drinks and hospitality industry, with a particular emphasis on supporting individuals from underrepresented and marginalised backgrounds. The organisation expanded its beneficiary pool by 109%, reflecting growing reach and engagement across diverse communities and career stages. Through education, mentorship, bursaries, industry events and consultancy, Equal Measures worked to remove barriers to career progression and improve access to training and employment opportunities. During the year, Equal Measures delivered EDI training, audits and consultancy services to organisations across the sector, reaching 1,593 drinks professionals globally, a 110% increase on the previous year. These activities helped employers adopt inclusive practices, reduce bias in recruitment and promotion, and create safer, more equitable workplaces. By influencing decision makers, competition judges and industry leaders, the organisation contributed to systemic change that benefits both employees and the wider community. Equal Measures also provided direct support through education and bursary programmes. In 2025, 23 bursary positions were offered to hospitality workers from underrepresented backgrounds, with measurable outcomes including promotions, improved job satisfaction and career progression. These initiatives enhanced employability, increased access to professional qualifications and strengthened economic opportunities for beneficiaries. Community benefit was further delivered through community days, networking opportunities and partnerships with charities, foundations and industry stakeholders. These activities promoted inclusive leadership, improved awareness of diversity issues, and equipped participants with practical tools to implement change within their organisations. Through its combined education, advocacy and partnership work, Equal Measures generated social impact by improving access to opportunity, supporting diverse talent, and encouraging long-term cultural change within the hospitality sector.

Equal Measures CIC engages with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure its work remains responsive to community needs and industry challenges. Key stakeholders include programme beneficiaries from underrepresented backgrounds, hospitality and drinks industry professionals, employers and brand partners, training providers, charity and foundation partners, event participants, and advisory bodies. These stakeholders contribute to shaping the organisation’s education programmes, EDI services, and outreach activities. Stakeholder consultation takes place through structured feedback forms following events and training sessions, direct engagement with beneficiaries, collaboration meetings with brand partners and funders, and ongoing dialogue with industry groups and advisory committees. For example, feedback collected after industry events showed that participants valued practical tools and actionable guidance, with respondents rating the learning experience highly and highlighting increased confidence to implement inclusive practices. This feedback informed the continued delivery of hands-on workshops and resource-based training formats. Equal Measures also consults with partners and industry stakeholders through collaborative initiatives and advisory roles, including participation in committees and focus groups addressing diversity and safety in the sector. Insights from these collaborations have guided the expansion of education programmes, strengthened partnerships, and informed new initiatives such as targeted bursaries and tailored EDI training for decision makers and industry leaders. In response to stakeholder feedback, the company has refined its training content, expanded networking and community events, increased access to funded education opportunities, and continued to develop practical resources that support inclusive workplaces. These actions demonstrate an ongoing commitment to consultation and continuous improvement, ensuring that Equal Measures’ activities remain relevant and beneficial to both beneficiaries and the wider community.

A director received £6,000 in respect of consultancy services delivered to the CIC during the year. Aside from the above, there were no other transactions or arrangements in connection with the remuneration of directors, or compensation for director’s loss of office, which require to be disclosed.

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration