Ocado Retail has created the UK’s largest dedicated online menopause aisle, bringing together more than 300 MTick-certified items in partnership with GenM. The launch follows new research from the retailer indicating widespread uncertainty among women about the symptoms of menopause and the products that may help manage them.
Although experts recognise 48 signs associated with menopause, the study reveals limited public understanding. Almost half of women surveyed (47%) could name only five or fewer symptoms, while just 7% said they knew more than 25. The findings, drawn from a sample of more than 2,000 women in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause, highlight ongoing gaps in awareness despite the condition affecting every woman.
The research also shows confusion about lifestyle changes that could ease symptoms. Two-thirds (68%) reported they were unsure which dietary adjustments might be beneficial, and nearly six in ten (59%) said they did not know which supplements could support their needs. In addition, 71% felt menopause-friendly products were not clearly labelled or easy to locate in shops, while 81% said they would feel more confident buying them if supermarkets provided expert-backed information.
Despite this uncertainty, the majority expressed a desire for more visibility. Almost all respondents (91%) said menopause should be treated as a normal and open stage of life, though one in five (19%) still felt embarrassed when buying related products.
Ocado Retail’s newly launched aisle aims to make the process more straightforward by curating supplements, skincare, sexual health and personal care products that have been certified with the MTick by GenM, the menopause partner for retailers and brands. The MTick indicates that a product may help support one or more of the 48 signs of menopause. The aisle also includes educational resources explaining which items may relate to particular symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disruption or changes to the skin.
Hannah Gibson, CEO of Ocado Retail, said: “At Ocado Retail, we’re committed to supporting our customers and colleagues experiencing the menopause and this research highlights just how much confusion still surrounds menopause support. Many women don’t know which products might help, or where to find them. By creating a clearly signposted aisle, we’re giving women a space where support, products and practical advice come together, offering a convenient shopping experience to help women on their journey.”
Heather Jackson, CEO and Co-Founder of GenM, welcomed the partnership. “We are so thrilled to welcome Ocado Retail to the GenM Collective – a growing movement of over 120 retailers and brands, all on a mission to make menopause-friendly products easier to find, understand and trust,” she said. “With Ocado Retail now offering the widest range of MTick®-certified products, women can shop with confidence, knowing they’re being supported through every stage of the menopause journey.”
The study also found strong interest in supplements, which were the most sought-after category, with 73% of women wanting clearer access to items such as vitamins, probiotics and hormone support. Foods tailored to menopause health (54%) and skincare and beauty products (53%) were also highly requested, suggesting that many are looking for broader lifestyle-focused support rather than medical treatments alone.
Ocado Retail says the dedicated aisle is aimed at helping women navigate a phase of life that is too often overlooked, providing greater clarity and accessibility at a time when many feel unsure where to turn for help.
