“We launched the fifth version of our Slant6 urinal mats in 2019, and from the start we discussed how they could be used for something positive,” says Mark Wintle, P-Wave brand manager at Robert Scott. “The biodegradable screens improve splash prevention and represent a major step forward in urinal deodorising technology, delivering more fragrance than any other 30-day screen while using less plastic.

“The screens were a strong commercial success, so we were delighted when, at the end of 2023, NHS England launched an awareness campaign encouraging men to contact their GP if they notice blood in their urine. As part of a wider early diagnosis initiative, they chose to collaborate with P-Wave by placing a clear call to action directly on Slant6 urinal screens in pubs, shops and public venues.

“Our partnership with NHS England is unique and has gained real momentum, with many large organisations supporting the initiative. More than 1.7 million screens have now been installed, backed by partners including Sodexo, Freedom Leisure, Mitchells & Butlers, Manchester United, conference venues such as The Brighton Centre, and numerous other smaller businesses. The more men see the message, the more effective it becomes.”

Delivering a potentially life-saving message 

One strong advocate for the campaign is Abigail Plumley, occupational health specialist at Balfour Beatty.

“My husband was 31 when he was diagnosed with bladder cancer,” she says. “He called me during a night out to say he was passing blood clots in his urine. It only happened once, and he thought it might be due to drinking. But I feared the worst and urged him to see his GP. He was referred immediately, and tests revealed a tumour. After surgery, it was confirmed as bladder cancer, but it was successfully treated – all from that single symptom.

“Later, I saw P-Wave’s messaging on LinkedIn and immediately thought we needed it across our sites. Without that push, my husband might not have sought help. A simple message can make all the difference.”

Balfour Beatty adopted the screens across its locations. “We have a ‘my contribution’ portal where employees can suggest ideas, and that’s where this started,” explains James Vizard, senior mobilisation partner. “We place ‘zero harm’ at the heart of our business, which includes physical and mental health, not just workplace safety.

“Working with P-Wave to deliver a potentially life-saving message is a simple, cost-neutral step. If we improve even one life, it’s worthwhile.”

At least one ultimate success

“Initially, we wanted to know if it was working, if people were going to the doctors to get checked. But we quickly realised that for P-Wave, this isn’t about data. It's not even about us,” says Mark Wintle. “Sometimes metrics are irrelevant. I mean, how do you really measure a conversation that finally happens or a worry that turns into a doctor’s visit? You can't. And we have seen at least one ultimate success in Berry Mulder’s story. 

Cancer survivor Berry Mulder credits the campaign with saving his life after seeing the message on a P-Wave screen in a Marks & Spencer store in Bristol. Prompted to seek medical advice, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and successfully treated. Now more than a year cancer-free, he later wrote to P-Wave: “I’d like to thank you and the NHS from the bottom of my heart – because you probably saved my life.”

The campaign has since expanded into sports stadiums and large venues, placing messaging on urinal trough screens and reaching even wider audiences. Through its collaboration with NHS England, P-Wave continues to transform everyday washrooms into spaces that promote wellbeing, raise awareness, and, in some cases, save lives.

See a video here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLK85GeWIBs

For more information, visit https://www.p-wave.co.uk/pages/nhs-partnership

Designed with user comfort and efficiency in mind, the Ergo-Globe Curve Handle helps reduce bending, stretching and repetitive strain during everyday cleaning tasks. Its distinctive curved design minimises the need to rotate the wrist and arm when carrying out the traditional figure-of-eight mopping action, helping operators maintain a more natural and comfortable working position.

The handle also features a comfortable ergonomic grip and a rotating, non-slip globe, allowing smoother movement and improved control during use. Together, these elements help reduce fatigue during prolonged cleaning tasks and support more efficient cleaning routines.

Manufactured from lightweight aluminium, the Ergo-Globe Curve Handle is designed to reach further under furniture and fixtures, reducing the need for operators to overreach or stretch.

Alastair Scott, Sales Director at Robert Scott, said: “Cleaning operatives carry out highly repetitive tasks every day, so ergonomics plays a crucial role in both wellbeing and productivity. The Ergo-Globe Curve Handle has been designed to support a more natural cleaning motion, helping reduce strain while also improving reach and control. It’s a simple but highly effective innovation that can make a real difference to daily cleaning routines.”

By combining thoughtful ergonomic design with practical functionality, the Ergo-Globe Curve Handle represents another step forward in cleaning equipment innovation from Robert Scott.

For more information, visit https://www.robert-scott.co.uk/

See the Ergo-Globe Curve Handle in action here: https://vimeo.com/1177360012?fl=pl&fe=sh

ROBOTS ARE increasingly supporting skilled cleaning professionals to deliver higher standards of hygiene and efficiency and Robert Scott’s growing robotics division, backed by 100 years of cleaning know-how, positions the company strongly in intelligent cleaning tools.

At the start of the year, Robert Scott added two new AI-powered robots to its steadily expanding cobotics range.

“For some time, Robert Scott has been championing the MT1, the world’s first AI-powered sweeper robot for large-scale environments, such as warehouses, airports, and shopping centres. Following its success, we have launched of the new MT1 Max Vac and MT1 Vac,” said Alastair Scott.

“Expanding our offering in automated cleaning technologies marks a significant milestone in Robert Scott’s 100+ year history.”

Built on the successful MT1 platform with enhanced capabilities and designed for indoor and semi-outdoor environments, including warehouses, loading bays, forklift spaces, and car parks, the MT1 Max is equipped with advanced 3D LiDAR, dual chips for greater computing power, and improved obstacle management - adapting seamlessly to complex conditions. 

Meanwhile, the MT1 Vac is the world’s first AI-powered vacuuming robot for large-scale environments. It features a Visual Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (VSLAM) system which enhances navigation in dynamic environments, while an ultra-wide scanning field allows efficient coverage of large areas. 

“The MT1 Max features a 3D lidar radar on the top of the robot - which looks like a flashing police light, and which improves its obstacle avoidance and location detection,” said Alastair Scott. “This means it can also operate outside - although the built-in rain sensor will send it back indoors on wet days!”

Is there anything a robot can’t do?

According to Peter Jones, as automation becomes more visible across everyday operations, the company is often asked 'Is there anything a robot can’t do?'. “In the world of commercial cleaning, robotics has moved rapidly from early-stage novelty to practical, high-performing solution," he asserted. "But while the technology has advanced significantly, understanding both its progress and limits is key to making the most of it.

“From smarter navigation to AI-driven efficiency, today’s cleaning robots are transforming how spaces are maintained, while still working best alongside the people who keep standards high.”

Getting stuck?

Early cleaning robots struggled with navigation and were notorious for getting stuck in corners, colliding with objects and failing to clean up the edges of rooms, Limited sensor technology meant occurrences of collisions with objects, becoming trapped in tight spaces, missing areas was quite common.

While some entry-level or older models may still encounter these challenges, modern commercial cleaning robots have evolved significantly. Today’s machines use advanced navigation systems and multiple sensors to map their environment, recognise obstacles and adjust their cleaning path dynamically. As a result, issues such as getting stuck or repeatedly missing areas are far less common.

The most significant improvements have come through advances in sensor technology, mapping capability and software intelligence.

Many modern robots combine technologies such as 3D LiDAR, RGBD cameras and ultrasonic sensors to build a detailed map of their surroundings. This allows them to plan efficient cleaningroutes, avoid obstacles in real time and operate safely in busy environments.

Improved sensors and more complex algorithms enabled by faster chips have enhanced edge-cleaning performance, with machines getting closer to edges and improving efficiency. Increased computing power has also improved robots’ problem-solving ability when faced with obstacles, enabling them to recalculate cleaning paths and complete tasks successfully.

Competitive market delivers improved technology

A greater number of suppliers have been entering the robotic market, driving competition, and leading to ever-improving technology. Factors which have created this expansion include increased labour costs, the need for contractual compliance and the post-pandemic desire to have cleaning more visible to customers.

Manufacturers are responding quickly by improving autonomy, ease-of-use and data reporting. Customers increasingly expect robots to integrate smoothly into their operations and provide clear performance insights.

Today’s commercial cleaning robots offer intelligent features designed to maximise efficiency and autonomy. These include AI capabilities, multi-robot collaboration, advanced navigation and route optimisation, enhanced obstacle avoidance, automatic charging and water refilling, plus improved remote monitoring and reporting.

These capabilities make robotic cleaning effective in an increasing number of spaces - from smaller retail environments, educational settings and healthcare facilities to very large logistics sites.

The human dimension

Despite their growing sophistication, robots are not designed to entirely replace human cleaners, and the industry increasingly recognises that the goal is not to eliminate the human element, but to support it. 

Robotic cleaning is often most successful as part of a hybrid approach, where robots handle routine floor cleaning while staff focus on detailed or responsive tasks, scheduling in a small amount of time to refill/recharge the robot.

Robots are most effective at repetitive floor cleaning tasks in open spaces. Challenges can still arise in highly cluttered environments or where detailed cleaning is required, such as tight corners, stairs or vertical surfaces. Robots are now sweeping up to the edges of walls but are not yet delivering deep cleans in this area.

Manufacturers continue improving object recognition, edge cleaning and adaptability in dynamic environments. Battery development is advancing rapidly, with larger capacities and shorter charge times the goal. However, because many robots can recharge and refill themselves mid-task, battery life is often less of an issue unless the environment or machine type prevents this technology being used.

“Robotic cleaning technology has developed rapidly in recent years and continues to evolve,” commented Peter Jones. “The most effective deployments are those where robots work alongside cleaning teams, taking care of repetitive floor cleaning so staff can focus on tasks that require attention to detail and human judgement.”

How smart will tomorrow’s robots become?

“Robots will become increasingly intelligent and connected,” concluded Alistair Scott. “Future machines may incorporate more advanced AI capabilities, allowing them to better recognisesurfaces, adapt cleaning methods automatically and integrate with smart building systems.

“However, the future of cleaning will almost certainly remain collaborative, with automation supporting skilled cleaning professionals to deliver higher standards of hygiene and efficiency.

“Through Robert Scott Robotics, we provide a range of autonomous floor cleaning solutions designed for commercial environments. These combine intelligent navigation, automated charging and refilling, and remote management tools to deliver consistent cleaning performance while reducing the manual workload on cleaning teams.

“Our focus is on delivering practical robotic solutions that integrate easily into existing cleaning operations, helping organisations improve productivity while maintaining high hygiene standards.”

Alastair Scott is sales director at Robert Scott. and Peter Jones is robotics expert at Robert Scott Robotics 

For more information, visit https://robertscottrobotics.co.uk

This innovation means that Exel®sockets are designed to biodegrade in managed landfill environments, eliminating the environmental impact of traditional plastic components polluting the planet for hundreds of years.

As Europe’s largest mop manufacturer, Robert Scott has long led the way in sustainable design, first re-using waste fabric back in the 40’s to manufacture mopheads. Today, Robert Scott manufactures 25 million mops a year in the UK. Of these, the cotton-rich fibre is recycled from 100% post-consumer waste, while the Big White fabric is re-using industrial waste.

A recent redesign to the socket is now saving 137 tonnes of plastic each year. In addition, the socket is made from durable polypropylene (PP); a type five plastic which can be recycled continuously into new products. 

However, Robert Scott understands that products that can be recycled aren’t always recycled, especially considering regional discrepancies in recycling methods and complexities of waste streams. In many instances, these will be disposed of and can end up in landfill.

That’s why Robert Scott is now adding an innovative additive called BioSphere® to Exel® sockets, which speeds up the biodegradation process in managed landfill conditions. Plastics treated with the additive still have unlimited shelf life and are non-toxic. 

Reusable, recyclable and now biodegradable

Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott, said: "We scrutinise every component of our products and every aspect of our operations to meet our sustainability commitments. While a mop socket on its own may seem relatively insignificant, when you consider the 20 to 30 grams of plastic per unitacross the millions of mops sold each year, the environmental impact soon adds up. 

“We know sustainability is a key concern in the commercial cleaning sector, both for our customers and the end-user. By making our sockets both reusable, recyclable and now biodegradable, we're helping address this by reducing plastic waste in the sector."

To biodegrade, the socket is simply added to a managed landfill. The polymer attracts over 600 types of microbes, allowing them to colonise the plastic and begin to break down the polymer chain by utilising its carbon backbone as an energy source. 

Put simply, this creates the opportunity for microbes to utilise plastic as food and this process continues until the only remaining element is nutritional, organic soil without the creation of microplastic. Comparing this to normal untreated plastics, which can pollute the planet for anything up to 500 years, it’s an amazing and revolutionary additive. 

Independent laboratory tests carried out by Eden Research Laboratory in accordance with ASTM D5511 are ongoing, a commonly recognised test method for assessing biodegradability. After the first 12 months, the sockets have already degraded by 29.6%, which is an incredible performance when compared with untreated plastics that can hang around in the environment for hundreds of years. Tests are ongoing and results will be updated regularly. 

A similar technology was added to P-Wave’s Slant6 urinal screen in 2019 - the brand is now distributed by Robert Scott - and laboratory tests demonstrate an 89% biodegradation in just six years. Neither technology uses oxo-degradation additive, and both comply with current UK and EU regulatory requirements.

The Exel® push-fit socket was originally designed by Robert Scott to accommodate different designs of mop handles, while preventing the chance of the mop unscrewing from an Exel® handle when being wrung out. Since its introduction in the 90’s, this innovation has helped the Robert Scott mop to become the market-leader in the UK’s commercial cleaning sector. 

For more information, visit https://www.robert-scott.co.uk/

Find out more about Robert Scott’s Exel® Mop Sockets containing BioSphere’s biodegradable additive here:

https://innovation-hub.uk/exel-biodegradable-socket

and here: https://biosphereplastic.com/partnership/robert-scott

Watch the video here: ​https://vimeo.com/1172136067?fl=ip&fe=ec

Tel: 01457 819400

“For some time, Robert Scott has been championing the MT1, the world’s first AI-powered scrubber dryer robot for large-scale environments, such as warehouses, airports, and shopping centres. Following its success, we are now excited to announce the launch of the new MT1 Vac and MT1 Max,” says Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott.

MT1 Vac

The MT1 Vac delivers powerful, industrial-grade suction, capturing everything from fine particles to larger debris with close-edge cleaning along walls and corners. Its low-profile design reaches easily under furniture, and a dual independent air-duct system boosts suction efficiency by 200%. A 6 L trash bin and 14 dust bags provide extended runtime with fewer emptying intervals. AI-powered floor recognition automatically adjusts suction and brush speed to suit carpets or hard floors, protecting surfaces while maintaining performance.

A HEPA-grade filtration system captures over 98% of particles as small as 0.3μm, with an optional HEPA 13 filter offering up to 99.97% efficiency, while 55 cm suction path increases coverage and reduces cleaning time. Modular, tool-free components minimise maintenance and replacement time.

The MT1 Vac is the world’s first AI-powered vacuuming robot for large-scale environments. It features a Visual Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (VSLAM) system which enhances navigation in dynamic environments, while an ultra-wide scanning field allows efficient coverage of large areas. Dual disc brushes manage both large debris and fine dust, supported by high-flow negative-pressure ventilation and effective filtration to prevent secondary pollution.

MT1 Max 

Built on the successful MT1 platform with enhanced capabilities and designed for indoor and semi-outdoor environments, including warehouses, loading bays and car parks, the MT1 Max is equipped with advanced 3D LiDAR, dual SoCs for greater computing power, and improved obstacle-crossing ability – adapting seamlessly to complex conditions. 

With optimised environmental adaptability and a fully automated workflow, MT1 Max ensures safer, smarter, and more efficient cleaning across dynamic spaces. It features a comprehensive multi-dimensional safety system that provides structural protection, intelligent responses, slope climbing, rain avoidance, and efficient obstacle handling, further supported by a 1.2 metre warning light, safety projection, and audible-visual alerts for proactive risk prevention.

“Never underestimate the pure theatre of cobotics when the machines look so good,” says Alastair Scott. “The MT1 Max features a large 3D lidar radar on the top of the robot – which looks like a flashing police light, and which improves its obstacle avoidance and location detection. This means it can also operate outside – although the built-in rain sensor will send it back indoors on wet days!”

Smarter solutions

Alastair continues: “Expanding our offering in automated cleaning technologies with the MT1 Vac and MT1 Max marks a significant milestone in Robert Scott’s 100+ year history. It is rewarding to be able to demonstrate how our rich heritage and long-standing expertise is continuing to drive us forward as we lead the way in next-generation innovative cleaning solutions.

“As automation, AI and the Internet of Things continue to evolve at a rapid pace, and the cleaning sector seeks smarter solutions to economic challenges, it’s clear that robotics will play a key role in the future of commercial cleaning. Our growing robotics division, backed by 100 years of cleaning know-how, positions us strongly to lead the way in intelligent cleaning tools.”  

For more information, please visit www.robertscottrobotics.co.uk

Tel: 01457 819400

Gareth has over 28 years’ experience in the cleaning industry with Scot Young Research (SYR) and IG Group in various roles in sales, marketing and directing teams.
 
"I am joining Robert Scott at a challenging and exciting time for the cleaning industry, as our customers and their clients consider the impact of a rapidly developing sustainability agenda and relatively new technologies such as robotics," said Gareth.
 
“I am looking forward to a leadership role in managing the sales team, while supporting sales growth and developing market share for Robert Scott. My objective is to grow the brand within current sectors as well as new sectors. By combining key elements, we can focus on customer growth, solving cleaning problems with the right products and the right placements. 
 
“Robert Scott is a very successful and respected business with a diverse product portfolio. I’m excited to have the opportunity to drive new sales with the established sales team that combines over 100 years of knowledge and expertise.”
 
Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott, added: “Gareth joins the business at an exciting time. In our centenary year, we continue to make considerable investment in innovation to bring new products to market that will help businesses clean efficiently and effectively in ways that are better for the environment. 
 
“We are focused on introducing more reusable and recyclable products, while ensuring that the ways in which we source and manufacture these products have positive sustainability gains too. Alongside that, we have an increased offering in robotics which is an area where we can proactively support businesses which are seeking smarter, more efficient ways of working.
 
"I am certain that Gareth's long experience and deep knowledge of the cleaning industry, both in the UK and internationally, will be a fantastic asset for the business to lead the sales team as we look to expand our ranges to support customers.
 
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank outgoing head of sales Gill Courtney (née Ireson), who will be retiring in March next year after over 30 years of excellent service at Robert Scott. Gill has done so much for the business over the years, and her customer-first approach has been instrumental in shaping the strong relationships we have today.”

For more, visit https://www.robert-scott.co.uk

TEL: 01457 819400

Supplied by Source Supplies and deployed by cleaning contractor Dall Cleaning Services, the cutting-edge machine has improved cleaning standards while also optimising resources, helping the team to tackle an expanded workload without compromising efficiency.

Expanding responsibilities

Dall Cleaning Services has long been responsible for maintaining W12’s 2,000 m² floor space. The contract includes daily scrubber drying, mopping, and dusting, but the recent addition of the car park to the cleaning responsibilities presented a new challenge. With an expanded brief but the same time restrictions, Dall needed a solution that could enhance productivity without significantly increasing costs or overburdening staff.

Chris Fenn, Director at Dall, explains: “As a company we’re always keen to explore new innovations. In particular, we knew there was technology out there that could make a real difference with the new requirements we faced in the large W12 space. The idea of a robotic cleaning machine was particularly appealing because it could free up our team to focus on other tasks at the shopping centre, which aligned perfectly with our needs.”

Introducing the MS60

Source Supplies, a trusted partner of Dall for many years, recommended the MS60 from Robert Scott’s Robotic division. Ollie Rastall, Director at Source Supplies, saw an immediate opportunity: “By deploying a robotic scrubber dryer, Dall could reallocate its team to higher-value tasks while maintaining exceptional cleaning standards. It was a win-win solution.”

Chris Fenn was impressed from the outset. “I’ve worked with Ollie for years and trust his expertise. After seeing the MS60 in action during a demonstration, I knew it was the right fit for W12.”

Why the MS60 stands out

The MS60 is designed for large, complex spaces like shopping centres. Developed with an industry-leading algorithm, the robotic scrubber dryer delivers close-edge cleaning with gaps of less than 10cm from walls and a zero-degree turning radius, ensuring high performance cleaning. 

Equipped with 12 sensors, the machine can detect and avoid obstacles as small as 5cm high, making it ideal for navigating W12’s bustling environment, complete with pop-up displays, seating areas, and shoppers.

Peter Jones, Regional Sales Manager at Robert Scott, explains: “When Chris explained the challenges he faced, we knew that the MS60 would provide an ideal solution. It delivers a premium finish while reducing the need for manual follow-ups. Its real-time tracking and reporting capabilities also allow for continuous optimisation of cleaning schedules.”

The machine’s self-sufficient design can also include a charging station that automates wastewater disposal and clean water refills, further streamlining operations.

Deployment and performance at W12

Once the decision was made, Robert Scott worked closely with Dall to deploy the MS60 at W12. The floor area was mapped, and a QR code strategically placed to start the robot’s cleaning schedule.

The results have been remarkable. The MS60 handles the centre’s morning scrubber drying before opening hours, ensuring floors are spotless and dry for visitors. During the day, it switches to dust mopping mode, working safely around shoppers. On a single charge, the machine can scrubber dry once and mop three times, covering nearly 5,000m² over seven hours of operation.

The performance metrics from the project speak for themselves. The MS60 achieves an efficiency rate of 678m²/hour when scrubber drying. One full circuit around the shopping centre covers almost 1,200m² in less than two hours, using 50% of its battery. In dusting mode, it cleans the same area at a rate of 639m²/hour, consuming just 8% of its battery.

Transforming operations and delivering value

The introduction of MS60 has had a marked impact on Dall’s operations. “While the robot handles the floors, our operatives can focus on high-touch areas and new responsibilities like the car park,” says Chris. “It’s a seamless integration that has made us more efficient without additional costs.”

Peter Jones highlights the financial benefits: “While robotics can be perceived to be a significant investment, the MS60 offers a rapid return. Operating 49 hours per week, as it does currently at W12, the payback period is just 12 months. 

A hit with staff and shoppers alike

The machine has also won over Dall’s operatives. “Our team trusts it to do a great job,” Chris notes. “After the initial scrubber drying, it’s free to dust for another 10 to 12 hours a day, which is fantastic for them.”

“As it’s cobotics we were very conscious that we didn’t want to be losing people’s jobs; so now that we’re required to put extra manual resources into the carpark, the robot frees up some of the existing workforce. It’s worked really well.”

Shoppers, too, have been intrigued. Ollie observes: “It’s not just the cleaning results that impress - it’s the way the machine navigates the space, avoiding people and obstacles. It’s a testament to the technology, and the client is thrilled.”

Looking ahead

The success of the MS60 at W12 has sparked interest from other Dall customers. “We’re already exploring opportunities to deploy it in a large warehouse for another client,” Chris reveals.

For the team at W12, the MS60 has proven invaluable in enhancing efficiency while maintaining high standards. As Ollie puts it, “It’s a great bit of technology, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.”

For more information, visit https://www.robert-scott.co.uk/

TEL: 01457 819400

What began as a small Oldham-based business has grown into an industry leader, still at the forefront of cleaning innovation.

Founded in Oldham in 1924, Robert Scott’s origins are deeply tied to the region’s once-thriving cotton industry. The company was built on innovation from the very beginning, with its founder, Robert Scott, bringing his expertise as a trained lift engineer to the family business established by his father, James Scott.

“My great-grandfather’s engineering background gave him a real edge,” says sales director Alastair Scott, a fourth-generation member of the Scott family. “He developed the first custom-made knitting and weaving machines of their kind, giving the company an early competitive advantage in terms of speed, quality, and cost.”

The business quickly identified a need within Oldham’s bustling mills, where oil, dirt, and grime coated the machinery. Scott saw an opportunity and began producing wipers specifically for cleaning these industrial machines - a move that set the foundation for the company’s future in cleaning solutions.

Sustainability at its core

Long before sustainability became a major industry focus, Robert Scott was already reusing materials. The company found an innovative way to repurpose yarn off-cuts and end-of-run fabric from the mills - waste that would otherwise be discarded - by tying the strands together to create mops.

That early commitment to waste reduction has evolved into an extensive sustainability strategy. “Sustainability has always been part of our DNA,” says Scott. “Today, we’ve moved many of our core product lines to over 70% recycled content, saving more than 300 tonnes of virgin plastic every year. On top of that, redesigning our socket mops has helped cut another 150 tonnes of plastic annually.”

The company is also working towards an ambitious long-term goal: carbon neutrality by 2045. In the past four years alone, Robert Scott has reduced its carbon emissions by 21%, reinforcing its dedication to environmental responsibility.

Pivotal moments

Over the past 100 years, Robert Scott has played a key role in some unexpected industries. The company once produced the steam cloths used by every British Rail train driver to clean their steam and diesel engines. It also played a part in the fashion industry, crossing ball yarn for major brands that wove denim for jeans and jackets.

One of the most transformative moments in the company’s history came in the 1960s, when it secured a contract to supply dishcloths and yellow dusters to Jack Cohen, the founder of Tesco.

“At the time, we only had two machines,” Scott recalls. “Fulfilling that order meant expanding to new premises - Oak View Mills, where we’re still based today. Before that, we operated out of places like a converted chicken shed and a former coffin maker’s workshop.”

Strategic acquisitions have also fueled the company’s expansion. In 2000, Robert Scott acquired Harold Watson of Heywood, doubling its mop production overnight and gaining the Millers Brook Mill site - known locally as the ‘Mop Shop.’ Later acquisitions, such as Contico in 2012 and P-Wave in 2023, further strengthened its market position.

As one of the largest employers in the area, Robert Scott has remained deeply connected to its local community. For 50 years, a company-run bus would collect staff from surrounding villages, bringing them to work at Oak View Mill and returning them home at the end of the day.

That commitment to the local community remains strong. “We recently built a school for autistic children and continue to support local sports clubs and events,” says Scott. “Our people are at the heart of this company. Out of just over 200 employees, 46 have been with us for more than 25 years, and 18 for over 40 years. That loyalty says a lot about who we are.”

Looking to the future

As the cleaning industry continues to evolve, Robert Scott remains at the cutting edge, adapting to changing consumer expectations and advances in technology.

“The pandemic has reshaped commercial cleaning, and sustainability is more important than ever,” says Scott. “We’ve introduced new product lines, including Toucan Eco, a chemical-free cleaning system, and we’re expanding into robotic cleaning solutions.”

With a century of innovation behind it and a clear vision for the future, Robert Scott remains committed to driving the industry forward. “We’ve spent the past 100 years evolving, and we’re not stopping now,” says Scott. “Our goal is to keep innovating and adapting to meet the needs of the next generation of the cleaning industry.”

At stand F46, the leading manufacturer and distributor will reveal how a century of cleaning know-how is enabling them to stay at the forefront of cleaning innovation today. Two of the latest additions to Robert Scott’s revolutionary Toucan Eco range will be on display, in addition to three new automated cleaning robots and a multipurpose trolley featuring innovative ‘Follow-Me’ technology.

Leading the robotic revolution

The company will exclusively feature a number of its automated cleaning solutions at its stand. This includes the industry standard-setting META-SCRUB 60, a cobotic scrubber dryer which provides an autonomous solution for large areas such as retail spaces, airports, and educational institutions.

Two new additions to Robert Scott’s automated cleaning offering will also be launched at the event. The company will unveil META-SCRUB 45 - a smaller, more agile scrubber dryer designed for more intricate and confined spaces. While offering all the performance benefits of its larger sibling, META-SCRUB 45’s compact size and advanced features opens automation to a whole new segment.

Also launching at the event will be the Exel Multipurpose Trolley equipped with Follow-Me smart technology. Using a series of sensors and a motor, the trolley autonomously follows cleaning operatives carrying a remote control. This eliminates the need for operatives to constantly push the trolley and reduces unnecessary back-and-forth movements.

Lastly, Robert Scott will display the world’s first AI-powered sweeping robot designed for large-scale environments. Designed to tackle areas up to 100,000 square metres with professional-grade dry cleaning, the robot’s dual-disc brushes easily handle larger debris while equipped AI cameras can recognise and identify various types of litter in real time.

Latest chemical-free cleaning innovations

Toucan Eco is a chemical-free system that uses just salt, water, and an electric current to create a powerful, naturally occurring disinfectant. The result is a hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly cleaner that kills up to 99.999% of germs.

The latest addition to the range, the Centrego Renew enables users to create two litres of disinfectant cleaner in just four minutes, as quick but double the capacity of the previous model, helping increase efficiency and reduce downtime of cleaning regimes. It’s designed to be significantly sturdier and more durable, making it the perfect solution for commercial small to medium spaces.

The revolutionary Toucan Eco Auto, meanwhile, offers a robust solution for operators of medium to large facilities. With just the push of a button, the automated disinfectant generator produces 20 litres of multipurpose disinfectant cleaner. Fully automatic, users only need to refill the salt container indicated by the LED display.

Robert Scott will be providing practical demonstrations of both systems throughout the event.

Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott, comments: “We’re excited to return to The Cleaning Show to showcase our latest innovations that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness – all while maintaining exceptional performance. In our 100th year, it’s rewarding to be able to demonstrate how our rich heritage and long-standing expertise is continuing to drive us forward as we lead the way in next-generation cleaning solutions.”

To book a demo during the show please use the link here or drop by the Robert Scott team at stand F46, The Cleaning Show, Excel London.

Tel: 01457 819400

Stand F46

More than 70% of the cleaning professionals surveyed in the research stated that the rising cost of doing business had the greatest impact on their operations in 2024, with almost 90% believing it will remain a significant factor in 2025. This points to a more sustained challenge than originally anticipated, given that only a third of cleaning businesses had previously predicted price increases over 2024.

Many respondents attribute new financial burdens to the change of government, with almost half (45%) stating that the new administration has had a negative or very negative impact on the cleaning sector. The most significant obstacles cited were increases to the minimum wage and Employer National Insurance contributions, with 84% and 88% of respondents respectively indicating these will have a serious impact on their day-to-day operations.

Despite these pressures, sustainability continues to play a critical role in shaping the industry’s future. Over 80% of respondents confirmed the importance of sustainability to the sector, with the effectiveness of sustainable cleaning products cited as the foremost priority. Reducing plastic waste also continues to be a key issue, with 60% of professionals citing it as a concern in the research, a 5% increase from last year. 

However, the research also highlighted that only a third of customers are prepared to pay more for ecofriendly solutions, indicating that businesses must deliver on both sustainability and value. Indeed, ‘demonstrating value for money’ was identified as the biggest overall trend for 2025 by almost half of respondents (46%). 

Robert Scott has helped pave the way for solutions that strike this balance between cost savings and environmental responsibility. This includes the new Ecofibre Compostable Wipe, a 100% plastic-free cloth made from natural fibres offered at a price point comparable to other non-woven wipes. The company is also moving products from virgin plastic to recycled content across much of its range, without any impact on prices. 

In addition, the company’s innovative Toucan Eco range creates a 100% natural disinfectant from water and salt to eliminate the need for costly and harmful chemical products, while maintaining performance on a par with traditional cleaning agents. 

Another emerging area of innovation with the potential to deliver significant efficiency gains – and one that is increasingly on the radar for industry professionals – is robotics. Indeed, more than half (56%) of respondents believe that robotic cleaning machines will have a notable impact on the industry within the next five years.

Alastair Scott, sales director at Robert Scott, commented: “The cleaning industry has always adapted to shifting market pressures, and this year’s findings show that the sector remains determined and forward-thinking in the face of economic headwinds. Cost challenges and policy changes are real, but it’s encouraging to see businesses respond proactively and continue to seek out smarter, more efficient ways of working.”

The research also explored customer satisfaction levels with Robert Scott, which celebrates its 100-year anniversary in 2025. An impressive 91% of respondents rated Robert Scott’s service as good or great, with a similar percentage expressing satisfaction with product availability and 95% product recommendation.

Alastair concluded: “We’re very proud that the industry rates our service offering and product availability so highly. As we enter our centenary year, our focus will remain on delivering solutions that improve cleaning efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and provide tangible value for our customers.”

For more information, visit: www.robert-scott.co.uk/

Tel: 01457 819400