Females in the packaging industry may be earning as much as 28% less than male counterparts, according to the first salary survey by the Institute of Packaging. The figure is 10% more than the national average gender pay gap, and particularly affects women in the mid 30s age group.

“This may be due to women taking time off to have families,” speculates Neil Farmer chairman of the IoP branches committee, “but we have to probe deeper into this issue now that it has been identified.”

Conversely, the average gender pay divide across all ages surveyed (25-46) is 10% less than the national average.

For copies of the IoP survey call 01664 502 111.