XPO, a leading provider of innovative and sustainable transport and logistics solutions in Europe, has achieved Silver Status in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, part of the Armed Forces Covenant. This recognition was received in appreciation for efforts the company has made to build a work environment that helps military veterans to thrive in civilian roles.

The award recognises months of work in building, testing, and deploying policies and tools to help encourage and support military veterans, reservists, cadets and spouses to become a part of the XPO family. The additional measures include:

• Offering up to 10 days of additional paid leave for serving reservists to allow for rest after military exercises.
• Up to five days of additional paid leave for Cadet Force leaders.
• Giving preferential leave to military spouses to ensure they have time off when their partners return from, or depart for, active duty so they have time together and as a family before or after deployment.

This inclusive approach helps create a better work-life balance for colleagues, allowing them to embrace both the civilian and military aspects of their lives. XPO is going above and beyond and also will be offering cadet forces nationwide with fundraising and logistics support when needed.

Kirstie Lawrence, deputy employer engagement director, East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, said: “Whilst a momentous achievement, Silver Status for XPO Logistics is a clear recognition of their continuous Defence partnership. In 2022 alone, they partnered with the Office for Veterans Affairs and where guests in Downing Street of Rt Hon Steve Barclay, former Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, to discuss the transformative impact employers can have on veterans and ex-military personnel.”

Lynn Brown, vice president – human resources – UK and Ireland, XPO Logistics, said: “Many of our team, from our senior management team to drivers and warehouse operatives, joined the organisation straight from the military service, and their contributions have been invaluable to the success of XPO. They bring a wealth of experience and skills from which our entire organisation benefits. We are proud to support these great individuals to achieve their full potential in our industry.”

Many XPO colleagues in the UK and Ireland are military veterans who bring a diverse, transferable skill set to the company. To encourage more veterans to join XPO Logistics, it has paired with many ex-Forces charities and continues to embrace the military personnel within XPO’s UK network. This investment will encourage new service leavers to make XPO Logistics an employer of choice.