These companies are setting new standards for LGBTIQ+ inclusion

LGBTIQ+ inclusion in the workplace is no longer a trend – it is the key to building a modern, high-performing and fair working environment. The PRIDE Index 2025 by the UHLALA Group demonstrates that companies are not only embracing the right values but are also taking concrete, measurable action to sustainably promote diversity and equality. Yet, despite significant progress, there is still work to be done.

“2025 is the year that reveals which organisations don’t just claim values, but make them measurable. Participating in the PRIDE Champion Audit isn’t a PR move – it’s a risk, and that’s exactly why it is proof of real responsibility.“ – Stuart Bruce Cameron, CEO of UHLALA Group

Measurable progress – and clear tasks ahead

The PRIDE Index 2025 evaluates how professionally organisations embed LGBTIQ+ inclusion within their structures. Key focus areas include strategic DEI management, people engagement, recruitment and HR processes, training, communication, gender diversity, legal frameworks and internal reporting structures.

This year’s enhanced audit places particular emphasis on governance, leadership responsibility, structured complaint procedures, and the quality of policies and training. As a result, the PRIDE Index 2025 provides deeper insight into which organisations manage inclusion sustainably and where structural frameworks still need to be built.

The results highlight strong professionalization among many large corporations. Clear responsibilities, comprehensive policies, visible employee networks and international guidelines are increasingly common and provide employees with security. At the same time, the audit reveals gaps, particularly in training, especially for leadership roles outside of traditional office settings.

Among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), development varies widely. Many smaller organisations show strong cultural commitment and visibility. Yet, they often lack resources, formal processes or documented policies that anchor inclusion over the long term.

Challenges remain particularly visible in the legal sector. Many organisations lack mandatory training, clear guidelines or explicit protection clauses in their Codes of Conduct. Reporting processes for discrimination are often insufficient or not formalized, this is a sign that LGBTIQ+ inclusion is frequently not recognized as a leadership responsibility. The Index highlights where accountability measures must be strengthened.

Positive momentum is especially visible in the area of gender diversity: more companies are implementing transition guidelines, processes for name change, pronouns and IT systems, as well as support structures for mental health. LGBTIQ+ inclusion is also increasingly integrated into ESG strategies, reinforcing transparency, comparability and governance.

Role Models: The Inclusion Champions 2025

The top-ranked organisations in the PRIDE Index 2025 demonstrate what consistent, strategic and binding inclusion efforts look like. This year’s top-performing large companies, all achieving the Platinum Seal (>95%), include:

AlixPartners, Allianz, Amazon Deutschland, AXA Konzern AG, Bayer, Platinion GmbH, Bristol Myers Squibb, Elsevier, Henkel, McKinsey & Company, Mercer Deutschland, NTT Data Business Solutions, REWE Group, Siemens, Ubisoft Blue Byte and Uniper.

Among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the highest scores were achieved by:

BMG, Ketchum and schultech GmbH.

In the public sector, the Federal Information Technology Centre (Informationstechnikzentrum Bund) earned the top result.

The PRIDE Index as a catalyst for change

More than an award, the PRIDE Index serves as a catalyst for organisations aiming to make their LGBTIQ+ inclusion strategies measurable and impactful. Developed by the UHLALA Group, it offers a clear framework that highlights both progress and areas for improvement. The PRIDE Index 2025 encourages organisations to evaluate, rethink and implement their diversity initiatives. The goal is a working world in which everyone – regardless of identity – can reach their full potential without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

“The results of the PRIDE Index 2025 show how essential consistent and long-term efforts are for true inclusion. Where companies set clear standards, act transparently and listen to their employees, we see real progress. At the same time, we notice that many structures are not yet firmly established everywhere. This is where the PRIDE Champion Audit is designed to help.

” - Anni Ziegler, PRIDE Champion Project Lead

The Role of the UHLALA Group: A Pioneer for an Inclusive Working World

The UHLALA Group is one of the leading platforms for LGBTIQ+ inclusion in Germany, supporting organisations in professionally shaping diversity and equal opportunities. With initiatives such as PRIDE Champion, the STICKS & STONES job fair and the Proudr business network, the UHLALA Group drives change toward an open, respectful and future-oriented working world.

Contact:

 Anni Ziegler, Project Lead PRIDE Champion Audit & Index

 pride-champion@uhlala.com