GAC North America Case Study: Water and Walking Challenges That Connect Teams

GAC North America provides shipping, logistics and maritime services across the United States – with teams spread over many locations and sectors. To support health and build a stronger sense of community, the company introduced YuMuuv wellness challenges, starting with something simple: drinking enough water. Here is how it went.

At a Glance

• Company: GAC North America – shipping, logistics and maritime services
• Challenges: a water intake challenge followed by a walking challenge
• Champions: senior leaders and a mental health first aid champion
• Result: stronger connections across locations and departments, and participants reporting better health

About GAC North America

GAC's shipping expertise spans dry bulk, general cargo, tankers, offshore oil and gas, LNG, LPG, Ro-Ro and cruise. Its logistics and support services serve the energy, marine and mining sectors, from case packing to air and ocean freight and project logistics.

The Goal

GAC sees its people as its most valuable asset. Management wanted an easy, engaging way to promote wellness and build community and mutual support into everyday working life.

The Approach: Start Simple

1. Water challenge – a low-barrier start to raise awareness of hydration. See why hydration matters at work.
2. Walking challenge – next, a walking challenge to get people moving and add friendly competition.

Stories From the Team

1. Luisa's Journey

Luisa Holloway, General Manager, Brokerage, for GAC North America Logistics, joined the water challenge first and soon signed up for the walking challenge too. She found it addictive in the best way: walking became part of her daily routine and noticeably improved her health. The encouragement from colleagues helped her keep going.

2. Leaders Who Join In

Darren Martin, GAC's Group Vice President for the Americas, took an active part – inspiring colleagues nationwide and bringing the shipping and logistics teams closer together.

3. A Focus on Mental Health

Commercial Manager Michelle Guggina, a mental health first aid champion, helped connect the challenges with GAC's broader goal of holistic wellbeing.

Results

• Community building: employees from many locations and departments came together, breaking down silos.
• Health benefits: participants reported positive changes, including more activity, weight changes and better joint health.
• Sustained engagement: the camaraderie continued beyond the challenges themselves.
• Wellness conversations: the challenges prompted discussions about health topics.

What Comes Next

Employees asked for more varied challenges and integrations with other health platforms, and GAC is planning to expand its wellness initiatives. See the complete list of YuMuuv challenges.

Key Takeaways for HR Teams

1. Start with an easy win – a water challenge lowers the barrier to joining.
2. Build up – follow with an activity challenge once people are on board.
3. Get leaders involved – visible participation from senior leaders inspires others.
4. Connect to mental health – champions help link challenges to holistic wellbeing.

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