Feature, Freight News, Sea


Scarlett Box supports women in maritime

[ January 13, 2026   //   ]

Associated British Ports (ABP) has become the first port operator to purchase The Scarlett Box, a pioneering menstrual health solution designed specifically for maritime environments. 

Southampton will be the first port in ABP’s portfolio to roll out the emergency menstrual care kits. 

Earlier this year, ABP rolled out a group-wide initiative to ensure sanitary products are available across all its landside facilities, including offices and quayside locations. Recognising the unique challenges faced by women on vessels, ABP is now extending the roll out to crew members working in marine environments where access to essential products can be limited. 

Scarlett Barnett-Smith (pictured, left, with Amy Harwood, who led the roll-out at ABP), a deck officer with nearly a decade of maritime experience, launched The Scarlett Box at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency event at London International Shipping Week 2025.

The Scarlett Box is water-resistant and contains essential products in sealed packaging to ensure safety and hygiene at sea.

ABP diversity & inclusion and talent partner, Laura Davies, said: “This initiative is about more than just providing products, it’s about sending a clear message that women belong in maritime. We are working hard to attract and retain women in the industry, and solutions like The Scarlett Box help remove barriers and make our industry more welcoming in a very simple, practical way.”