The cleaning industry has never been more important, or more visible, than it is today. Once often considered a background function, it is now firmly recognised as a cornerstone of public health, workplace wellbeing, and organisational performance. Across the UK and globally, the sector continues to evolve at pace, shaped by rising expectations, technological innovation, and a rapidly changing economic landscape.

At its core, cleaning remains an essential service, one that supports safe environments in healthcare settings, enables productivity in workplaces, and underpins confidence in public and commercial spaces. The industry’s contribution to the UK economy is significant, employing over a million people and generating tens of billions in value each year. 

Yet, while demand is strong and the industry’s profile is rising, organisations across the sector are facing a growing number of challenges that require strategic thinking, innovation, and strong leadership.

A changing landscape

One of the most notable shifts in recent years has been the increase in expectations from clients and end users. Cleanliness is no longer simply about appearance, it is directly linked to health, safety, and trust. The legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact, with heightened hygiene standards now embedded across sectors.

In parallel, clients are increasingly seeking transparency and measurable outcomes. Data-driven cleaning, real-time reporting, and evidence-based service delivery are becoming standard expectations rather than differentiators. 

This shift positions cleaning professionals not just as service providers, but as strategic partners, playing a key role in risk management, compliance, and overall building performance.

The cost challenge

Perhaps the most immediate pressure facing the industry is the rising cost of doing business. Inflation, increased energy prices, and higher wage demands are placing significant strain on margins. A large proportion of industry professionals identify cost pressures as the most significant challenge currently impacting operations. 

At the same time, customers are placing greater emphasis on value for money, often expecting higher standards at lower or static costs. This creates a complex balancing act: maintaining quality, investing in workforce and innovation, while remaining commercially competitive. 

Workforce pressures

Alongside financial challenges, workforce issues continue to affect the sector. Labour shortages and high turnover remain persistent concerns, impacting service delivery and operational consistency. Factors such as shifting workforce demographics and the perception of cleaning roles contribute to the difficulty in attracting and retaining skilled individuals.

In response, organisations are increasingly focused on enhancing the value and recognition of cleaning roles. Investment in training, professional development, and clear career pathways is essential, not only to improve retention but to elevate the status of the profession as a skilled and vital industry.

Sustainability - from expectation to requirement

Sustainability has moved firmly from aspiration to expectation. Clients now require cleaning providers to demonstrate environmental responsibility using eco-certified products, waste reduction, and alignment with broader ESG commitments. 

However, achieving these goals is not without its challenges. The availability and cost of sustainable products, combined with the need to maintain cleaning efficacy, can create tension between environmental responsibility and operational practicality. Furthermore, while sustainability is widely valued, not all customers are prepared to absorb the additional costs involved. 

Innovation and opportunity

Amid these challenges, there is also significant opportunity. Technology is playing a transformative role across the industry, enabling smarter, more efficient service delivery. From robotic cleaning equipment to IoT-enabled facilities and digital audit platforms, innovation is helping organisations improve productivity, consistency, and transparency. 

Automation offers a practical response to labour shortages, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks while maintaining standards in large or repetitive environments. 

At the same time, there is growing demand for specialised services, from infection control and healthcare cleaning to post-construction and high-risk environments, creating new avenues for growth and professional development.

Leading the future of cleaning

The cleaning industry stands at a pivotal point. The challenges it faces are real and complex, but they also present an opportunity to redefine its role and value.

Success in this evolving landscape will depend on several key factors: embracing innovation, investing in people, maintaining high standards, and demonstrating clear value to clients. Above all, it will require strong leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement.

As the industry continues to adapt, one thing is clear: cleaning professionals are not just maintaining environments, they are shaping safer, healthier, and more sustainable spaces for everyone.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

THE ANSWER to this question for most is probably no. And that’s because we tend to stick with what we know and what’s comfortable. As humans, we tend not to like change. 

But when you start looking at the way we prove we are safe to work, through paper certifications and plastic cards, it’s fairly easy to ponder if there’s a better, more modern approach to this. And this is where I introduce digital credentials.

It’s something that The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) is working on with Origin Secured, and we aim to seamlessly integrate our Licence to Practice (LTP) with their app, signalling a new era of digital credentialing in the cleaning sector. This move not only simplifies credential management but also drives higher standards and transparency across the industry, which is something I am sure most of us are keen to see.

If we look at how digital credentialing is already transforming other sectors, this seems the natural move for us as an organisation. We’ve seen success with others taking on such an approach, like the NHS, where personal information and records are securely stored and easily accessible in their app. Likewise, the GovOne app is advancing in this direction, with services like driving licence renewal now fully online and seamlessly integrated with passport details. This is the future of efficiency and connectivity.

Recognising this momentum, we are committed to the Digital Cleaners Licence. Starting later this year, successful Licence to Practice (LTP) candidates will automatically receive a complimentary digital cleaning licence. This initiative is designed to streamline professional validation and support the industry’s evolution towards higher standards and modernised workforce management.

For those unaware of the Digital Cleaners Licence, it is an electronic certification that verifies an individual’s competence, training, and adherence to industry standards, and unlike traditional paper-based qualifications, the digital licence is stored online, enabling both employers and employees to access, update, and share credentials instantly.

Powered by Origin Secured, this digital credential enables cleaning operatives to present verified identity, Right to Work (RTW) status, bank account details, professional accreditations, and full work history.

The team is currently finalising the details to ensure a smooth rollout, but rest assured, this digital credential will be an integral part of our forward-thinking approach, driving innovation, enhancing compliance, and aligning with the industry’s future direction.

Overall, the Digital Cleaners Licence is reshaping the professional landscape of the cleaning sector. We are looking to empower workers by giving them control over their credentials, while also giving employers the benefit of improved compliance, simplified onboarding, and efficient data management.

I’m looking forward to sharing more of this exciting new step forward for BICSc and the industry as a whole. So, keep a lookout for future information from us regarding progress.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

Companies and organisations are invited to nominate those from the cleaning community who deliver excellence and are dedicated to raising standards across all sectors. Every year,nominations for the BICSc Awards prove phenomenally popular as the calibre of entries excels. Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony being held on Thursday 17th September 2026, at Whittlebury Hall & Spa, Whittlebury, Northamptonshire. 

Neil Spencer-Cook, BICSc group managing director, said: “The BICSc Awards are a standout highlight for so many who operate within the professional cleaning community and continue to increase in popularity year on year. We are incredibly proud of the ongoing success of the BICSc Awards, which celebrate the sector’s outstanding achievements and gives recognition to some of the industry’s brightest stars. 

“We were delighted to extend the entry deadline this year to allow as many organisations as possible and their teams to have the opportunity to receive the accolades they deserve. We look forward to celebrating with the winners at our BICSc Awards ceremony in Septemberand wish all entrants the very best of luck!”

There is still time to enter a wide range of award categories including: 

• Innovation Award – in collaboration with the CSSA – this award will celebrate the success of a BICSc member that has demonstrated a focus on the use of technology processes and/or learning and development to drive an innovative evolution for their business or organisation. 
• Environmental (ESG) Award – in collaboration with The Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners – this award recognises a BICSc Corporate Member that is focused on environmental and social governance (ESG). The company will need to show a rounded and comprehensive approach to environmental and social governance within their business, whose team is engaged in the journey. 
• Corporate Member of the Year – presented to a BICSc Corporate Member for their commitment to the BICSc ethos and principles. 
• Assessor of the Year – this award celebrates the success of an individual assessor who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence for their students in their role as an assessor, whilst promoting the value of BICSc ethos and principles. 
• Accredited Training Member (ATM) of the Year – this award recognises the work of an Accredited Training Member who, through BICSc training and assessment, delivers exemplary cleaning and hygiene standards.
• Accredited Trainer of the Year – this award celebrates the success of an individual accredited trainer who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism and commitment to excellence for their students in their role as an accredited trainer. 
• Cleaning Operative of the Year – this award is the most coveted accolade of all, celebrating the success of an individual cleaning operative who has demonstrated an outstanding level of passion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence in their role. 
• Outstanding Candidate of the Year – this award focuses on how a candidate has been able to achieve the recognition of becoming the outstanding candidate of the year through adversity or has gone the extra mile to complete and receive the qualifications within the workplace.
• Lifetime Achievement Award – this award will recognise an outstanding cleaning operative who has excelled in their role and shown a great commitment to their employer. Judges will be looking for an individual who has demonstrated an understanding of the cleaning operative role and who goes ‘above and beyond’ as a matter of course. 

Additional awards, which will be nominated and voted on by BICSc Council, include:

• The Chairman’s Award
• The Eric Hill Award
• The BICSc International Award

Ahead of this year’s awards will be an Exhibition and Conference which will include presentations and discussions featuring knowledge experts and business leaders from across the industry. 

Neil Spencer-Cook added: “Our daytime event, which will be free to all, includes an exhibition with industry-leading sponsors showcasing their latest innovations. Our conference will include discussions with leading experts who will tackle topics impacting the industry and deliver thought-provoking presentations. 

“Our glittering prestigious awards ceremony will be the highlight of the evening’s entertainment, with guests celebrating the shining stars from across our industry.”

Guests attending the black-tie event will enjoy a drinks reception ahead of the awards ceremony, which will shine a spotlight on the professional cleaning community’s leading talent and includes a three-course dinner followed by entertainment. 

For more information visit: https://www.bics.org.uk/awards/

Their team of specialists will be joined by key companies and voices, who will each deliver sessions throughout the week.

The pioneers in the professional cleaning sector will host multiple panel discussions at the event, passing on extensive knowledge and expert tips. The event will take place at the NEC Birmingham from 28 – 30 April 2026. 

BICSc team will share expertise, industry insights, and deliver dynamic demonstrations throughout the three-day show at The Cleaning Innovation Hub, which returns this year in partnership with the Institute. The exciting feature will shine a spotlight on cutting-edge trends and advancements in the workplace and facilities management sectors at the event, which is expected to attract thousands of visitors. 

Together with specially selected suppliers, BICSc will showcase live demonstrations to highlight how the very latest innovations are helping shape the cleaning industry at the show,which brings together the UK’s largest gathering of workplace and facilities management specialists with over 150 exhibitors and sponsors. 

Professionals from across the sectors will hear about the latest trends and key topics which are making an impact industry-wide as each day delivers diverse demonstrations and presentations on an array of subjects including: Robotics and Innovation, Sustainability, Workforce and Retention. 

BICSc Group Managing Director, Neil Spencer-Cook, said: “Innovation drives exciting developments within the workplace and professional cleaning community, so being at the forefront again of activities at The Workplace Event is a fantastic opportunity.

“BICSc is thrilled to again partner with The Workplace Event and lead on three days packed with presentations, demonstrations and panel discussions exploring a variety of pressing issues and topics touching the industry. It is critical we continue to share knowledge and innovation to help raise standards across all workplaces and environments.  We will be joined by industry leaders, manufacturers, suppliers and BICSc members during the event, engaging with everyone from across a range of sectors.”

BICSc will be immersed in daily demonstrations and guest speaker opportunities every day with show highlights including Robotics and Innovation in Cleaning: From Concept to Practice. As the cleaning and facilities management sector undergoes rapid transformation, driven by advances in robotics, smart technology and data-led innovation, Neil Spencer-Cook will chair this insightful panel session to explore how these technologies are moving beyond theory and into real-world application. 

BICSc will also lead panel discussions on Building a Sustainable Supply Chain and Service,addressing the commercial and operational realities of sustainability, including balancing environmental goals with performance, cost, and practicality. Alongside chairing a panel discussion focusing on smarter systems, skilled people, stronger teams to explore how structured systems, digital tools and data-driven approaches can support operational efficiency, consistency and compliance ensuring people remain central to service delivery. The discussion will highlight how the role of training, professional development, leadership and engagement in creating confident, capable teams that can adapt to changing demands. 

With more than 60 years of expertise, BICSc professionals provide training, education, and accreditation, excellence and innovation across workplace hygiene and facilities management. As the largest independent, professional and educational body within the professional cleaning industry, leading lights from BICSc will be on hand throughout the event to meet with delegates and host insightful panel presentations and interactive, dynamic demonstrations. 

IN RECENT years, “sustainability” has become a defining theme across the cleaning industry. Manufacturers have introduced “green” products, robotics have grown, and environmental certifications are now common expectations. But despite this progress, many organisations overlook the most powerful sustainability strategy of all: getting the basics right. True environmental responsibility in cleaning is less about innovation for its own sake and more about disciplined fundamentals, well-trained people, correct product use, and the thoughtful selection of effective, efficient machinery.

One of the most overlooked drivers of sustainable cleaning is the knowledge and skill of the operatives themselves. Training ensures operatives understand how chemicals work, how surfaces respond, and how to choose the right product for the task. Internal training materials highlight the importance of understanding pH levels, chemical composition, and how soil types influence the correct choice of cleaning agent. 

When operatives understand why certain chemicals should be used and how they work, they naturally use less product, avoid unnecessary repeat cleaning, and reduce waste. Proper training also supports safer working environments and more consistent standards, which ultimately strengthens both environmental and operational performance.

Training empowers staff to make responsible, informed decisions that reduce waste and enhance results.

Across multiple site review reports, one theme repeats numerous times: too many cleaning operations hold an excessive and unnecessary variety of chemicals, many of them duplicated or rarely used. Beyond creating clutter and health and safety concerns, this undermines sustainability. Improper dilution leads to overuse, which increases chemical consumption, packaging waste, transportation emissions, and cost. 

Sustainability is not determined solely by whether a product is labelled "ecofriendly." As your internal assessments emphasise, effective dilution ratios are equally, if not more, important. Using concentrated products correctly reduces plastic, weight, and shipping frequency and ensures that the minimum necessary amount of product is used to achieve the desired result.

A sustainable approach to chemicals includes:

• Rationalising chemical ranges to reduce duplication
• Training operatives to dilute accurately and safely
• Selecting concentrated products that reduce packaging and transport emissions
• Storing and handling chemicals responsibly to prevent waste and safety risks.

Dilution accuracy is often more important than the “eco label” on the bottle, using the right amount of the right chemical significantly reduces environmental impact while maintaining high cleaning standards.

Modern machinery plays a vital role in sustainable cleaning when selected and used correctly. The right equipment can reduce chemical dependency, improve productivity, and deliver consistent results.

Benefits of effective machinery include:

• Reduced water and chemical consumption
• Improved mechanical action, reducing reliance on harsh products
• Faster drying times, improving safety and energy efficiency
• Reduced operator fatigue, improving performance and morale.

However, machinery only supports sustainability when it is well maintained, appropriate for the task, and used by trained operators.

Returning to fundamentals offers several powerful advantages:

• Lower chemical usage through accurate dilution and correct product choice
• Consistent standards driven by well-trained operatives
• Higher productivity, reducing labour time and energy consumption
• Lower cost, thanks to reduced waste and streamlined product ranges
• Improved safety, with fewer risks from misuse of chemicals or equipment.

Sustainability does not need to be complicated; disciplined execution of the basics delivers the greatest impact.

Sustainability in the cleaning industry is not achieved by the latest trend but by disciplined, intelligent practice. Training operatives properly, using the correct chemicals at the correct dilution, and investing in effective, efficient machinery form the foundation of an environmentally responsible cleaning strategy.

By returning to these basics and ensuring they are embedded in everyday operations organisations can dramatically reduce their environmental footprint while delivering cleaner, safer, and more consistent spaces.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

A CLEAR mission is more than a statement on a website or in a handbook; it is the heartbeat of an organisation. For companies operating within critical industries such as cleaning, hygiene, and facilities management, a strong mission becomes the foundation for quality, trust, and long-term impact. At BICSc, our mission – to raise standards of education and build awareness of the cleaning industry through professional standards and accredited training – perfectly illustrates why clarity of purpose is so essential. It is not only aspirational but also actionable, shaping the work we do and the outcomes we aim to achieve.

Our mission provides a guiding direction: to elevate education and awareness within the cleaning sector. This clarity ensures that every partnership or initiative supports a single, unified purpose. In industries where safety, professionalism, and compliance are paramount, having such a mission creates organisational focus. It ensures decisions are not made in isolation but are aligned with the broader goal of enhancing standards and promoting best practice across the sector.

A clear mission also helps everyone understand why you exist and what you seek to achieve. It becomes a shared anchor that your organisation remains purpose driven.

The BICSc mission has embedded commitments that highlight why what we do matters. The key focus on protecting the operative underscores a genuine dedication to safeguarding those working on the front line. In an industry where operatives face hazards, time pressures, and increasing expectations, training and professional development become essential tools for protection.

This emphasis not only improves safety outcomes but also empowers operatives with the competence and confidence needed to perform to high standards.

BICSc commitment to providing a clean and safe environment and producing best practice speaks to the heart of your organisational impact. Accredited training, professional frameworks, and structured learning pathways ensure that the highest standards are consistently achieved. This not only improves service delivery but also strengthens the reputation of the cleaning industry, helping it gain the recognition and respect it deserves.

All businesses looking to strengthen their mission should remember that a mission acts as a reminder that quality is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate, standards-driven practice. When everyone understands this, a business becomes unified in its pursuit of excellence.

Employees want to feel that the work they do matters. A compelling mission taps into that need for meaning. It tells staff that they are contributing to something larger, whether that’s improving industry standards, delivering exceptional customer experiences, or creating positive impact.

When employees feel connected to a mission

• Engagement increases
• Productivity rises
• Retention improves
• Job satisfaction and pride grow.

In a sector like cleaning, where the quality of training has a direct impact on safety, hygiene, and public health, being able to have a strong mission and set of goals in mind is a critical component of organisational integrity.

A clear mission and defined goals bring purpose, alignment, and meaning to an organisation’s work. In BICSccase, the mission does more than guide operations; it elevates the entire cleaning industry. By focusing on education, protection, sustainability, best practice, and standards, it not only improves individual performance but also strengthens the sector’s reputation and future. When a company knows exactly what it stands for, the path to lasting impact becomes clear, powerful, and achievable.

Help support the BICSc mission by becoming a member today! https://tinyurl.com/bdpwrwks

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

I'M SURE everyone has heard of companies marketing that they have created chemical-free cleaning products or even that their cleaning process is chemical-free, which seems like a wonderful idea. The less wonderful part is that there is zero logic behind this claim, and I am yet to see many other people point this out and so here I am putting my head above the parapet, ready for it to be shot at!

The term chemical is often thrown into conversations, but it is just as often used incorrectly. The definition of a chemical is any substance made up of matter, which means that everything around us is made of chemicals. This includes naturally occurring substances such as water, salt and oxygen, which aren’t inherently harmful. So why has the term become associated with potentially toxic substances and led to this increased demand for “chemical-free” alternatives?

The “chemical-free” alternatives rely on naturally occurring ingredients, including things such as vinegar, lemon juice or baking soda, which are perceived to be the safer and more environmentally friendly versions of their synthetic counterparts. The advantages of these cleaning products are that they have a smaller environmental footprint, as a lot are biodegradable and reduce exposure to potentially toxic substances. These products definitelyhave their benefits, but are they labelled incorrectly? This increases the chance of consumers or end users being misinformed about the products they are using. The unique selling point of these products is surely the lack of harsh synthetic chemicals, and so do we need to marketthese correctly, as containing natural chemicals, not chemical-free.

The standard “chemical-based” cleaning products are relied on for good reason, for their effectiveness in ensuring surfaces are hygienically clean. It should be noted that there are obvious possible health risks from frequent exposure to strong chemicals. This is the reason why there is a marketplace for natural or less harsh chemical products, which isn’t what is up for debate.

The important thing is that the best products for a task are based on the specific needs and circumstances, so I can’t tell you for definite in this article whether you should stick to the standard chemicals or if you should move to these supposed chemical-free products. I can tell you for certain that different jobs have different needs. High-risk areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, or clinical settings, may still require the use of stronger chemical products to ensure proper hygiene standards are maintained. However, for everyday maintenance, the use of “chemical-free” methods can be both effective and have the added benefits of being safer for everyone and the planet. 

In drawing this article to a close, I want to make my point clear. The use of “chemical-free” products isn’t inherently bad or wrong; it is the term itself that is the problem. 

Companies marketing products this way to make them automatically seem like the better and safer option are technically spreading incorrect information with false claims, as it is impossible for products to be free from chemicals. Products like this should be labelled differently as “harsh chemicals free” to ensure that consumers are aware of what they are purchasing. The moral of the story is that the cleaning industry needs to work on the language we all use to avoid ‘clickbaiting’ consumers and end users, therefore, allowing them to make informed choices. 

And perhaps we will see some changes with the new ECGT Directive, which will come into force shortly, ensuring that environmental and sustainability claims are kept honest, truthfuland most importantly accurate! 

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

IN A recent address at the Summer Court Lunch of the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, I emphasised the critical importance of respect within the cleaning industry. I began with a light-hearted acknowledgement of the struggle with abbreviations, a common challenge that many can relate to. The aim was to set a friendly and approachable tone for the serious message that followed.

The core of the speech focused on the legacy of Eric Hill, the founder of both the British Institute of Cleaning Science and the Environmental Cleaners. Hill's mission was to professionalise the cleaning industry and ensure that those working within it, particularly the cleaning operatives, received the respect they deserved. This legacy of respect is a cornerstone of the industry's ongoing efforts to elevate its standards and recognition.

I posed a thought-provoking question: Do we have complete respect within our industry? This internal respect is crucial for gaining respect from others. Respect is built on a foundation of training, knowledge, and progression. A recognised qualification with a Royal Charter, like the Environmental Cleaners Chartered Practitioner, is a powerful tool for fostering respect and professionalism within the industry.

While government backing would be beneficial, the industry cannot afford to wait for external support to make progress. There is much that can be done from within the industry to help itself, and who better to lead these efforts than those who are already part of it? This call to action is a rallying cry for industry professionals to take ownership of their future and work collaboratively to create new opportunities.

The British Institute of Cleaning Science and the Environmental Cleaners are leading by example in this regard. I explained how Darren Marston, upon becoming Master, approached us to explore potential collaborations. Given our shared heritage in Eric Hill, it was a natural partnership. Our aim is to help individuals starting out in the industry or those already in it to fill gaps in their knowledge to achieve Chartered Practitioner status.

To support this goal, we mapped the five pillars to becoming a Chartered Practitioner to existing courses from BICSc that can help meet the requirements in most of these pillars. A dedicated webpage has been created to assist with this process. The webpage, accessible via a QR code, provides information on how the Institute can help with each of the relevant pillars and directs users to the Chartered Practitioner portal.

The swift creation of this resource was a team effort, and I must thank my team and Sam, the Clerk, for their hard work. The hope is that this will drive people through the process and help fill in the gaps in their knowledge. The team at BICSc are available to answer any questions and provide support as needed.

I ended my speech with a call to action, urging industry professionals to focus on action rather than talk. The Institute is evolving, just like any other business needs to, to remain relevant today. I encourage everyone to catch up with these changes and not view the Institute as the "elephant" or "dinosaur" in the room.

By showing those outside the industry how professional and respectful we are to each other, I do believe that this will help the industry gain the respect it craves. 

In summary, I felt the speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of respect within the cleaning industry. It highlighted the need for internal respect, the value of professional qualifications, and the power of collaboration and action. By working together and supporting each other, the industry can achieve great things and gain the respect it deserves.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk

THIS YEAR'S programme blends practical knowledge with forward-thinking strategies, reflecting BICSc’s commitment to setting and maintaining the highest standards in the cleaning profession. Delegates will benefit from expert-led presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
Conference Programme Highlights

09:00–09:30 – Registration
Coffee and networking to start the day.

09:30 – Welcome
Soo Bartholomew, BICSc Chair
An introduction to the day’s themes, speakers, and the Institute’s ongoing work.

09:40 – The Influence of Social Media on the Cleaning Industry
Vikki Morris, Environment & Sustainability Manager, Evans Vanodine
Vikki examines how digital platforms are transforming cleaning from an invisible service to a high-profile, consumer-driven conversation. Expect insights into the rise of cleaning influencers, the power of user-generated content, and how visual media is shaping trends and customer expectations.

10:05 – The Future of Cleaning

Tibor Killi, Managing Director, Killis

To unlock their full potential, organisations must prioritise staff engagement, effective change management, long-term value in procurement, and reliable service support. Far from replacing people, cobotics are already shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and people-focused future for facilities management.

 

10:30 – Coffee Break

11:00 – United by Standards: Elevating Safety and Efficacy in Cleaning Across the Industry
Kelsey Hargreaves, Technical Manager, BICSc
A Youth Ambassador for Youth Employment UK, Kelsey brings operational cleaning experience from NHS settings, with expertise in training models, site inspections, and overcoming industry challenges.

11:30 – Empowering the Workplace: The Origin Secured Digital Cleaner’s Licence
Jamie Devlin, COO, Origin Secured
Jamie reveals how this groundbreaking digital credential is revolutionising compliance, training, and workforce empowerment — aligning perfectly with BICSc’s focus on skills recognition.

12:00–13:00 – Lunch

13:00 – Disinfectant Resistance and New Technologies
Dr Andrew Kemp JP, PhD, FBICSc L/RAMC
A leading authority on disinfection research, Dr Kemp addresses the growing challenge of microbial resistance and the role of sustainable cleaning innovations.

13:30 – Lessons Learnt
Denise Hanson FBICSc, Commercial Director, BICSc
A candid review of an 18-month industry trial — the good, the bad, and the lessons that provide a roadmap for implementing successful change.

14:00 – Coffee Break

14:30 – Cleaning Up Carbon: How Our Industry Can Lead the Net Zero Transition
Alan Stenson, CEO, Neutral Carbon Zone
A practical, honest, and forward-looking session on how the cleaning industry can play a central role in achieving net zero targets.

15:00 – Collaboration: The Journey to Chartered Practitioner Status
Hosted by BICSc and WCEC
An exploration of the new register for Environmental Cleaning Professionals, designed to uphold high standards and ongoing proficiency.

15:25 – Close
Neil Spencer-Cook, BICSc Group MD

The BICSc Conference is open to all registered Cleaning Excellence Conference attendees, making it the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest thinking, connect with industry leaders, and take away practical insights to apply in your organisation.

An awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating excellence in the cleaning industry is more than just an evening of glamour. It is an opportunity to highlight achievements, motivate professionals, foster camaraderie, and elevate the industry’s reputation. Recognising the hard work and innovation within this sector can strengthen its foundations and inspire future growth.

Awards ceremonies provide a formal platform to acknowledge and celebrate exceptional contributions. Whether it is for innovative cleaning techniques, exemplary customer service, or sustainable practices, recognising individuals and organisations who excel instils pride and confidence. This recognition not only boosts morale but also encourages continued dedication and professionalism.

In the cleaning industry, many workers operate behind the scenes, ensuring environments are hygienic and safe. An awards ceremony shines a spotlight on these unsung heroes, giving them the recognition they deserve. This acknowledgement can have a profound impact on their motivation and sense of belonging within the sector.

The cleaning industry is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology and practices. Awards ceremonies can highlight groundbreaking innovations, such as new cleaning solutions, efficiency-enhancing tools, and eco-friendly approaches. By celebrating these achievements, the industry showcases its adaptability and commitment to progress.

Awards ceremonies act as a catalyst for growth. By setting benchmarks of excellence, they inspire others to pursue higher standards, learn new skills, and innovate within their roles.

Competitions linked to awards can foster a spirit of healthy rivalry among professionals and organisations. This drives ambition while encouraging others to refine their methods and strive for similar accomplishments.

Recognising standout individuals and teams creates role models for others in the industry. These examples of success can inspire new entrants and seasoned professionals alike to aim higher and contribute meaningfully to the sector.

An awards ceremony offers an opportunity for industry professionals to gather, network, and celebrate their shared achievements. This fosters a sense of unity and belonging that is essential for the sector’s growth and resilience.

By attending awards ceremonies, professionals can build relationships with peers, suppliers, and stakeholders. Such events can serve as a platform for collaboration, business opportunities, and shared learning.

Celebrating achievements collectively creates a sense of community within the industry. It reminds workers and managers alike that their efforts contribute to a greater purpose and instils pride in being part of a vital sector.

Awards ceremonies elevate the profile of the cleaning industry by showcasing its accomplishments and contributions to society. This recognition helps counter stereotypes and highlights the critical role cleaning professionals play in maintaining health, safety, and order.

A spotlight on excellence within the industry can attract new talent. Awards demonstrate that the cleaning industry values its workers and offers opportunities for recognition, growth, and rewarding careers.

An awards ceremony sends a positive message to customers and stakeholders. It highlights the industry’s commitment to quality, innovation, and professionalism, building trust and loyalty among those who rely on its services.

In today’s world, sustainability and ethics are crucial across all industries. Awards can emphasise and reward efforts to adopt green cleaning solutions, minimise waste, and uphold fair labour practices. Celebrating these initiatives not only inspires others to follow suit but also enhances the industry’s image as a responsible and forward-thinking sector.

An awards ceremony dedicated to excellence in the cleaning industry is a celebration that transcends trophies and accolades. It recognises the dedication and ingenuity of its professionals, inspires growth and innovation, fosters unity, and enhances the sector’s reputation. Such events are a powerful tool in shaping the future of the cleaning industry, transforming it into a vibrant, innovative, and respected field. By investing in recognition and celebration, the industry ensures it continues to thrive and evolve, leaving a lasting impact on workers, stakeholders, and society.

Neil Spencer-Cook is group managing director at BICSc.

For more information visit www.bics.org.uk