October 27, 2026
Reflecting their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, ASL, in collaboration with Maersk, introduced female forklift operators at its Container Freight Station (CFS) in Sri Lanka. Launched in 2024 with eight young women, the initiative has since become an established part of the operation. This pioneering initiative marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s logistics industry, creating opportunities for women to operate forklifts in a professional CFS environment.
For Maersk and ASL, inclusion means creating meaningful opportunities for people to participate, develop skills, and build careers across the logistics value chain. The introduction of female forklift operators brings this commitment to life, demonstrating how collaboration between a global shipping line and its logistics partner can turn an idea into a practical workplace initiative.
“At Maersk, we believe that inclusion is about creating genuine opportunities for people to build skills, grow in confidence and pursue careers without being limited by traditional perceptions. When I first discussed this concept with Mr. Janaka Gunawardena, his immediate openness and understanding of the opportunity, and his willingness to turn the idea into reality, were instrumental in making this initiative possible. Our collaboration with Aitken Spence Logistics demonstrates how a shared vision and the right leadership commitment can translate into meaningful change on the ground. Seeing women successfully take on operational roles such as forklift operations is a powerful reminder that capability has no gender. We are proud to support this journey and hope it inspires more women to see logistics as an industry where they can build rewarding careers and create new possibilities for them and their families,” said Biju Ravi, Managing Director – Maersk Sri Lanka & Maldives.
Maersk’s continued support underscores the importance of creating more inclusive opportunities across the wider logistics ecosystem.
“This initiative sends a clear message to women considering a career in logistics: opportunities exist across the industry, including in operational roles traditionally perceived as unsuitable or inaccessible. Seeing women operate forklifts in a professional CFS environment helps challenge these outdated perceptions and can inspire the next generation to explore careers in warehousing, transportation, supply chain management, and other operational functions,” said Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson and Interim Managing Director of Aitken Spence PLC.
The initiative originated from Maersk India’s Pink Warehouse concept and was subsequently introduced to ASL. Recognising its potential for the local industry, ASL adopted and implemented the concept at its 100,000 sq. ft. Container Freight Station in Sri Lanka. The initiative was championed by Janaka Gunawardena, Chief Executive Officer of Aitken Spence Logistics, whose commitment was instrumental in bringing it to life.
“The Pink Warehouse represents our belief that the future of logistics should be shaped by capability and opportunity, rather than traditional perceptions of the roles women can take on. This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations are willing to create opportunities and invest in people. The commitment and eagerness to learn demonstrated by our female forklift operators have strengthened our confidence in their potential and reaffirmed the value of investing in their continued development. Most importantly, the value of this initiative extends beyond our operations. It is about creating greater confidence, independence and possibilities for women and their families, while contributing to a broader change in how the industry views women in operational roles,” said Janaka Gunawardena, Chief Executive Officer of Aitken Spence Logistics.
While the forklift is an important part of the story, the broader message is one of breaking barriers and expanding possibilities.
The collaboration between Maersk and ASL shows what is possible when organisations challenge convention and create opportunities based on capability.
The female forklift operator initiative is one important step towards a more inclusive industry. For Maersk and ASL, inclusion means opening doors and enabling people to demonstrate their potential. The initiative reflects their shared commitment to breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and shaping a more inclusive future for logistics in Sri Lanka.
A member of the blue-chip conglomerate Aitken Spence, Aitken Spence Logistics is a pioneering provider of integrated logistics solutions in Sri Lanka. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, the company offers end-to-end supply chain management solutions, including container freight stations, warehousing, third-party logistics (3PL), inland container terminals, container repair services, transportation, distribution, mobile storage solutions and project cargo logistics. Serving international shipping lines, freight forwarders, multinational corporations and other local and international businesses, Aitken Spence Logistics continues to drive innovation and create value across the logistics sector.
Female forklift operators at Aitken Spence Logistics’ 100,000 sq. ft. Container Freight Station
Female forklift operators carrying out forklift operations as part of the facility’s day-to-day operations.
Biju Ravi, Managing Director – Maersk Sri Lanka & Maldives.
Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson and Interim Managing Director, Aitken Spence PLC
Janaka Gunawardena, CEO – Aitken Spence Logistics
