Don’t sweat it! Solutions for menopause symptoms in the workplace

We’re sharing how the right uniform can help people experiencing menopause symptoms, such as hot flushes, feel more comfortable and supported at work.Many people going through menopause experience changes that can make the working day more challenging. Hot flushes, temperature sensitivity and discomfort can all affect confidence and concentration. That’s why thoughtful, inclusive uniform design matters.

Why menopause-friendly workwear matters

Research suggests around 75–80% of women experience hot flushes, ranging from occasional episodes to symptoms that happen frequently throughout the day.

For employees in active roles, customer-facing environments or long shifts, that can have a real impact on comfort. Uniforms that help regulate temperature can make everyday working life easier.

We believe workwear should support the person wearing it, helping them feel comfortable, confident and able to focus on the job.

Cooling uniform technology designed for comfort

We’ve introduced a number of innovative garments into our collection that are designed to help reduce body temperature.

These garments use 37.5® technology, a moisture-wicking fabric that helps move heat and moisture away from the skin. Moisture is released from the fabric through evaporation, helping the wearer stay cooler and more comfortable throughout their shift.

This fabric technology has been incorporated into a range of garments including:

• T-shirts

• Trousers

• Socks

• Blazers

The result is practical, high-performing uniform designed with wearer wellbeing in mind.

Supporting Tesco colleagues across the UK

This solution has already been rolled out to Tesco colleagues across the UK, with colleague uniform tops now made using 37.5® fabric.

Following internal feedback, consultation and research with industry experts, alongside conversations with uniform wearers, Tesco has taken positive steps to provide menopause-friendly uniform options for colleagues.

Performance you can feel

To demonstrate the cooling benefits of the fabric, it was tested during a 40-mile uphill climb on one of the hottest days of the year, helping wearers stay cool and comfortable even in demanding conditions.

Expert insight

Ann Barbour, Strategic Account Executive for Tesco, said:

“Employers need to be aware of the everyday impact menopause symptoms can have on workers. It’s been a pleasure to roll out our 37.5 fabric technology with Tesco, and we hope many organisations will follow suit and invest in solutions that help employees feel cool and comfortable at work.”

Simple tips for managing menopause at work

If specialist fabric technology is not currently available, there are still simple ways to improve comfort at work. Ann continues:

“Layering lightweight garments that are not restrictive and can be removed when a hot flush strikes can help regulate body temperature. Certain fabrics are better suited to keeping you cool too, like natural cotton, so always opt for those when choosing work outfits. Avoid wool, silk and most synthetic fabrics.”

Helpful options include:

• Wearing lightweight layers

• Choosing breathable natural fibres such as cotton

• Avoiding restrictive clothing

• Having options to remove layers when needed

Creating more inclusive workplaces

Everyone deserves to feel comfortable and supported at work. Inclusive uniform design is one practical way employers can make a difference. Ann concludes:

“It’s our mission to create uniforms that are inclusive to all — we want employees to look and feel their best at work. If there are women at work struggling with menopause symptoms, we urge them to raise it with their employer. There are workwear solutions out there for everyone, and feedback goes a long way in helping companies seek out those solutions.”

How we can help

We work with organisations to create uniforms that balance performance, comfort and inclusivity. If you’re reviewing your current workwear, we’d be happy to help you explore menopause-friendly options.