What are the challenges facing the cleaning industry today?
As a family-run business here in Worcestershire, we at Cleaning Technique have always prided ourselves on being more than just a commercial cleaning company. We’re deeply invested in our local community, hiring talented individuals from the area and working alongside businesses to create clean, safe, and welcoming spaces.
But like many industries, the cleaning sector faces its fair share of obstacles.
From labour shortages to rising costs, the challenges in the cleaning industry impact not only our business but also the clients we serve. Here, I’d like to take a closer look at these challenges and how we’ve adapted to them at Cleaning Technique.
Labour shortages and retention
One of the biggest hurdles in the cleaning industry is attracting and retaining reliable staff. New research suggests three out of four (74%) UK businesses feel hiring has become harder in the past five years.
Cleaning is an essential service, yet it’s often undervalued, which can deter potential workers. The physical demands of the job, coupled with unsocial hours, make it less appealing for some.
We’ve tackled this challenge by focusing on our team.
We invest in the community by hiring locally, ensuring our employees feel part of something bigger. For us, it’s not just about filling roles; it’s about creating a supportive workplace where people can thrive. We’ve built long-standing relationships with many of our staff, some of whom have been with us for years. This loyalty stems from treating our employees with the respect they deserve, offering fair pay and recognition, and accommodating their needs whenever possible.
Rising costs and economic pressures
However, there are still plenty of challenges in the cleaning industry.
Inflation and rising operational costs have been a point of contention for all businesses, and the cleaning business is no exception. The cost of cleaning supplies, fuel for transportation, and even energy for operating equipment has soared in recent years.
To navigate this, we’ve taken a two-pronged approach: efficiency.
Our tailored solutions mean that our clients receive a truly bespoke service and only pay for what they need. We don’t do “off-the-shelf” solutions, so our clients don’t pay for generic services they may not require. This means we can focus their budget on their requirements, and make sure their needs are catered for.
Additionally, we continuously review our processes to ensure they are as efficient as possible without compromising on quality. It’s a fine balance, but one we manage carefully to keep our services affordable for our clients while maintaining the standards they expect.
All that said though, the commercial cleaning market in Worcester is increasingly competitive. The number of cleaning companies and facilities management companies founded in the area has skyrocketed in recent years. Even more reason for us to focus on personal service and value for money.
Increasing demand for sustainability
Sustainability has become a key focus for businesses across all sectors, and rightly so. Clients are increasingly looking for cleaning services that align with their environmental values.
However, switching to green products and processes can be challenging, especially when balancing costs and performance.
At Cleaning Technique, we’ve embraced this shift. We source environmentally friendly cleaning products wherever possible and train our team to use them effectively. Our clients, particularly schools and medical facilities, appreciate this commitment to creating a healthier environment.
By leading the way in sustainable practices, we not only meet our client’s expectations but also play our part in protecting the planet.
Managing diverse client needs
As a commercial cleaning company, we work with a wide range of clients, each with unique requirements. From offices to healthcare facilities, schools, and churches, no two contracts are the same. This diversity can be challenging, as it requires a tailored approach to each job.
We’ve always believed that understanding our client’s needs is key to delivering exceptional service. For instance, our work with an optician and a busy factory, require very different approaches and employ different techniques and priorities. Similarly, in schools, we focus on creating safe and hygienic environments for children and staff.
By maintaining close communication with our clients and staying flexible, we ensure we meet their expectations, no matter how specific their requirements.
Moving forward together
Despite these challenges in the cleaning industry, the sector continues to grow and adapt. At Cleaning Technique, we’re proud to be part of this journey. By staying true to our values—supporting local people, investing in sustainable practices, and maintaining strong client relationships—we’ve built a business that not only endures but thrives.
If you’re looking for a commercial cleaning company that understands your needs and shares your values, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can create cleaner, healthier spaces for everyone.