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| Final shortlist unveiled for 2026 Cleaning Excellence Awards | 30/10/2026 |
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THE FINALISTS for this year's Cleaning Excellence Awards have been revealed, celebrating an unprecedented number of nominations and recognising the people, businesses and innovations making a difference across the UK cleaning and hygiene industry. Following an unprecedented number of nominations, the shortlist recognises excellence across 19 categories, spanning frontline performance, leadership, customer service, sustainability, technology, product innovation and professional development. The finalists will come together at the awards ceremony on 3 December 2026 at the CBS Arena in Coventry, where the winners will be announced and the achievements of individuals, teams and organisations celebrated. Chris Shaw, editor of Cleaning Matters and one of the event organisers, said: “The quality of nominations this year has been exceptional, and we've received an unprecedented number. "The final shortlist reflects the depth of talent and expertise across our industry, from dedicated cleaning operatives and emerging leaders to organisations developing innovative products and more sustainable ways of working. “What stands out is the sheer breadth of achievement. These nominations demonstrate the professionalism, ambition and commitment that underpin our industry every day. "We must thank our fantastic sponsors, Soap2O and Kärcher, who have been key supporters of this prestigious event. Reaching the final shortlist is a significant achievement, and we're looking forward to celebrating these outstanding finalists in December.” The announcement marks a significant milestone in the 2026 awards programme, with the industry now looking ahead to the ceremony at the CBS Arena, Coventry on 3 December 2026, where the finalists' achievements will be celebrated - and this year's winners revealed. The full shortlist is available on the official Cleaning Excellence Awards website: https://cleaningexcellenceawards.com/2026/en/page/2026-finalists To register for the event, visit https://cleaningexcellenceawards.com/2026/en/page/book Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026 — Full finalist list 1. Best Use of Data and Analytics in Cleaning
2. Cleaning & Hygiene Team of the Year
3. Cleaning Operative of the Year
4. Client Collaboration Award
5. Contract Cleaning Award
6. Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award
7. Excellence in Training and Development
8. Facility Management Partnership of the Year
9. Going Above and Beyond Expectations
10. Innovation in Cleaning Product Design Award
11. Innovative Product of the Year
12. Manufacturer of the Year
13. Outstanding Customer Service
14. Rising Impact Leader Award
15. Rising Star in the Cleaning Industry
16. Supervisor of the Year
17. Sustainable Company of the Year
18. Technology and Digital Innovation Award
19. Unsung Hero Award
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| Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026 extends entry deadline to 23 October | 30/10/2026 |
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ENTRIES FOR the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026 will now close on 23 October at 23:55 BST, giving businesses and individuals across the professional cleaning and hygiene sector more time to showcase their achievements. The Cleaning Excellence Awards has extended its entry deadline, offering a final opportunity for organisations, teams and individuals to gain recognition for their contribution to the professional cleaning and hygiene industry. Free to enter, the awards celebrate excellence across 19 categories, recognising the innovative products, services, businesses and people driving progress throughout the sector. From technological advancements and smart cleaning solutions to sustainability initiatives, leadership and frontline commitment, the awards shine a spotlight on the achievements making a difference across the industry. With the revised deadline fast approaching, potential entrants are encouraged to submit their entries before 23:55 BST on Friday 23 October 2026. The 2026 awards feature a broad range of categories, providing opportunities for businesses of all sizes and individuals at every stage of their careers to have their work recognised. Categories include Cleaning & Hygiene Team of the Year, Cleaning Operative of the Year, Contract Cleaning Award, Sustainable Company of the Year, Technology and Digital Innovation Award, Innovative Product of the Year, Outstanding Customer Service, Supervisor of the Year, Unsung Hero Award and Rising Star in the Cleaning Industry. Other categories recognise achievements in data and analytics, client collaboration, diversity and inclusion, training and development, facility management partnerships, product design and exceptional service. The full list of categories is:
Whether recognising an innovative new product, a successful sustainability initiative, an exceptional team or an individual whose contribution deserves greater recognition, the awards offer a platform to celebrate the work taking place throughout the professional cleaning and hygiene sector. Gala awards ceremony The winners will be announced at a gala awards ceremony at Coventry Building Society Arena on 3 December 2026. Guests will enjoy an evening combining celebration, networking and entertainment, beginning with a drinks reception followed by a three-course meal. The programme will also feature magic acts, comedy and the awards presentation. The celebrations will continue with an after-party featuring a photobooth, live band, dance floor and fun money casino tables. Acclaimed comedian, author and actor Laura Lexx will host the evening. Known for appearances on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week and Roast Battle, she will bring her comedy to the event. Kärcher returns as headline sponsor, with continued support from BICSc, WCEC and CHSA. Deadline extension The deadline extension gives prospective entrants a final opportunity to put forward the achievements of their organisation, team or colleagues. With entries free of charge, the awards provide an accessible way to celebrate excellence, raise the profile of successful initiatives and recognise the people and businesses helping to shape the future of professional cleaning and hygiene. From digital innovation and product development to sustainability, customer service and outstanding individual contributions, the 19 categories reflect the breadth of talent and expertise across the industry. The final deadline for entries is 23 October 2026 at 23:55 BST. Organisations and individuals are encouraged to enter now and ensure their achievements have the opportunity to be recognised at the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026 and celebrate the people, products and initiatives making a difference across the industry. Enter now at https://cleaningexcellenceawards.com/2026/en/page/categories |
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| Cleaning Excellence Awards - Deadline approaching | 12/10/2026 |
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TIME IS running out to enter the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026, with the free-entry deadline just days away. Cleaning and hygiene businesses, teams and individuals have until 23:55 (GMT) on 9 October 2026 to put themselves forward for one of the sector’s major celebrations of excellence — and entries are free. The awards recognise the people, products, businesses and initiatives making a difference across the professional cleaning and hygiene industry, from innovation and technology to sustainability, leadership, customer service and frontline excellence. With the deadline fast approaching, there is no time to miss the opportunity to showcase your achievements and put your organisation or team in the spotlight. This year's awards feature 19 categories, providing opportunities for organisations and individuals across the sector to have their work recognised. Categories include Cleaning & Hygiene Team of the Year, Cleaning Operative of the Year, Contract Cleaning Award, Sustainable Company of the Year, Technology and Digital Innovation Award, Innovative Product of the Year, Outstanding Customer Service, Supervisor of the Year, Unsung Hero Award and Rising Star in the Cleaning Industry. Other categories recognise excellence in data and analytics, client collaboration, diversity and inclusion, training and development, facility management partnerships, product design and going above and beyond expectations. Don't leave it until it's too late The message to potential entrants is simple: if you have an achievement worth celebrating, now is the time to enter. Whether it's an innovative new product, a successful sustainability initiative, an exceptional team, outstanding customer service or the contribution of an individual who deserves recognition, the Cleaning Excellence Awards provide a platform to showcase the work taking place across the industry. Entries close at 23:55 (GMT) on Friday 9 October 2026 and the winners will be announced at a spectacular gala ceremony at Coventry Building Society Arena on 3 December 2026. The evening will feature a drinks reception, three-course dinner and live entertainment, followed by the awards presentation and an after-party complete with a photobooth, live band, dance floor and fun money casino tables. Kärcher returns as headline sponsor, with continued support from BICSc, WCEC and CHSA. Hosting the evening will be acclaimed comedian, author and actor Laura Lexx, known for appearances on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week and Roast Battle. Enter nowThe deadline is fast approaching — don't miss your chance to be part of the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026. Entries are completely free, but they must be submitted by 23:55 (GMT) on 9 October 2026. Submit your entry and view the award categories Find out more about the Cleaning Excellence Awards 2026 #CEAwards |
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| High-efficiency commercial surface disinfection | 01/10/2026 |
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KEEPING EVERYDAY high-touch items, such as shared computer keyboards, elevator buttons, desktops and surfaces, has never been more important, especially in the healthcare and food industry. Shared items and surfaces that are used regularly, especially by multiple users, can accumulate harmful germs. The UV-C Miracle Wand V.2offers a simple, portable and versatile way to rapidly sanitise surfaces and individual items in 10 seconds. The UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 is a powerful, professional-grade germicidal handheld device engineered by UV-C Light Products for high-efficiency commercial surface disinfection. It is designed to be used in conjunction with daily cleaning regimes as a ‘belt and braces’ best practice and leaves no harmful residue on treated surfaces. Overuse of toxic chemicals in both the commercial and domestic markets has increased exponentially since the COVID pandemic. Incorporating the UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 alongside daily routine cleaning will reduce the need for overuse of harsh and toxic chemical cleansers. Over-diluted chemicals will allow germs to reproduce and become ‘chemical resistant’ leading to superbugs like MRSA. Under-diluted (over-concentrated) cleaning chemicals leave a sticky residue that actively attracts dirt and grime. Due to the unique design of the UV-C Miracle Wand V.2, the device is convenient and flexible. Its portable format allows users to treat items and surfaces without the need to be near a wall socket, thus eliminating any health and safety risks with trailing electrical leads. UV-C Germicidal light – What makes it effective? UV-C light is a high-energy form of ultraviolet light commonly used in controlled disinfection systems. Many UV-C devices operate at 253.7nm, a wavelength widely associated with germicidal properties. At the right dose, UV-C damages the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce. Light travels in a straight line; therefore, items and surfaces must be directly exposed to the light to ensure maximum dose. The unique design and power of the UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 ensure maximum dosage in a controlled manner, whilst protecting the user. For more information, visit www.uvc-lightproducts.com Tel: 07398 420514 Email: [email protected] |
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| Unearthed Bowie audio adds lustre to Unilever brand history | 27/10/2026 |
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NEWLY RESURFACED audio from 24 September 1966 reveals how Unilever’s mid-century marketing engine accidentally captured a foundational moment in rock history - an early interview with 19 year old David Bowie at the Marquee Club for offshore pirate Radio London. Long before Unilever finalised its multibillion-pound sell-off of Elida Beauty to private equity in June 2024, the company was making the most of broadcasting rules to dominate the consumer market.
Neither the musical nor the cabaret ever came to fruition. The full broadcast can be heard here. In a second historical twist, the exact same broadcast features an interview with chart-climbing pop band Episode Six - then in the charts with a cover of The Beatles' Here, There and Everywhere. This lineup featured a young Ian Gillan and Roger Glover, who would exit the group three years later to front the definitive "Mark II" lineup of heavy metal pioneers Deep Purple.
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| Time to shape the future | 07/09/2026 |
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BOTH THE Cleaning Excellence Awards and Cleaning Excellence Conference come at a particularly significant time for the cleaning and hygiene industry. Few sectors are experiencing such a combination of economic pressure, changing regulation, skills shortages, evolving client expectations and rapid technological development. At the same time, the industry is being asked to demonstrate greater professionalism, sustainability and measurable value. Against that backdrop, bringing the industry together to celebrate achievement and debate its future is more important than ever. The Cleaning Excellence Awards recognise the individuals, teams and organisations that are already making a difference. From frontline operatives and supervisors to manufacturers, contractors and technology innovators, the breadth of the categories reflects an industry that is far more diverse and sophisticated than the outdated perceptions that can still surround it. The Conference, meanwhile, provides an opportunity to confront the issues that will determine whether the sector is ready for the next decade. Data, AI, robotics, sustainability and automation will undoubtedly change the way cleaning services are delivered. But technology should not be viewed as a replacement for people. The industry’s future depends on combining innovation with investment in skills, training, leadership and professional development. There is also a wider issue at stake. Cleaning remains fundamental to the health, safety and smooth operation of workplaces, public spaces, healthcare environments, hospitality and countless other settings, yet its contribution is too often taken for granted. Raising the profile of cleaning as a genuine profession - with clear career pathways and opportunities for progression - must therefore remain a priority. Perhaps most importantly, the industry needs to become more proactive. Rather than simply responding to technological, environmental and economic pressures as they arise, cleaning businesses and industry bodies have an opportunity to shape the changes taking place. The Awards and Conference offer two sides of that same conversation: recognising what the industry is doing well while asking what it needs to do better. If the sector can combine its growing appetite for innovation with a stronger focus on people, professionalism and collaboration, it has an opportunity not simply to adapt to the future, but to help define it. |
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| Recorra appointed waste and recycling partner for O2 | 07/09/2026 |
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RECORRA HAS been appointed as the waste and recycling partner for The O2, one of the world’s most iconic entertainment venues. The contract commenced on 2 July 2026 and sees Recorra delivering a comprehensive range of waste and recycling services across The O2’s AEG-managed areas. A key focus of the partnership will be maximising the value recovered from The O2’s recyclable materials, including dry mixed recycling, food waste, plastics, and compostables. Recorra will introduce new recycling streams and implement systems that improve material segregation and operational efficiency, helping divert more material from general waste and ensuring valuable resources remain in circulation. This partnership strengthens Recorra’s growing presence across some of London’s most prominent destinations and supports the company’s mission to help organisations recycle more, reduce waste, and keep valuable resources in circulation for longer. Christian Macani, waste and recycling manager of The O2, said: "As one of the world's busiest entertainment venues, sustainability and responsible resource management are incredibly important to us. Recorra impressed us throughout a rigorous and competitive tender process with their innovative approach, strong sustainability credentials, and commitment to helping organisations achieve more from their waste and recycling services. As part of the mobilisation, Recorra has already redesigned The O2’s waste compound layout using advanced imaging technology. Upgrades include improved efficiency, streamlined processes for operatives, and reduced vehicle movements. The partnership includes the deployment of Recorra’s SmartSystems technology in the form of SmartWeigh, which will provide greater visibility into waste generation and recycling performance, helping optimise services. This will work in conjunction with hands-on training for tenants, cleaning teams, and waste operatives. Bill Swan, managing director of Recorra, added: "The O2 has ambitious goals for maximising recycling and reducing emissions for the millions of visitors it hosts every year. We're proud to be helping make those goals a reality by providing the technology, systems, and expertise needed to drive change. For more information, visit https://www.recorra.co.uk Tel: 020 7407 9100 |
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| Recorra launches SmartSystems technology ahead of regulatory changes | 07/09/2026 |
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RECORRA, A commercial waste and recycling company, has launched SmartSystems, a suite of technology designed to give businesses greater visibility across its waste and recycling operations. The platform is now available to clients across London and the South East with additional products and capabilities set to be introduced as the SmartSystems suite continues to evolve. The launch comes as businesses prepare for major regulatory changes, including Simpler Recycling enhancements and the forthcoming Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which are placing greater emphasis on material quality, recycling performance, and transparent reporting. Recorra has developed SmartSystems to help organisations navigate these changes while achieving better environmental outcomes for their waste and recycling. The SmartSystems suite includes SmartWeigh, SelfWeigh, SmartAudit, and SmartReturn. Together, these technologies help organisations measure waste more accurately, identifycontamination, prepare for the DRS, and gain greater visibility into their operations through accessible reporting. It is designed to help businesses to recycle more, recover high-quality materials, and divert valuable resources from disposal, keeping materials in circulation for longer. SmartSystems brings together Recorra’s expanding portfolio of waste and recycling technologies under one connected platform. Centralised within the MyRecorra reporting portal, the platform provides real-time data and reporting across buildings, floors, departments, occupiers, and portfolios. The launch of SmartSystems forms part of Recorra’s wider commitment to innovation and its ambition to champion the circular economy, with additional SmartSystems technologies planned for future release. Businesses interested in implementing SmartSystems can contact Recorra to arrange a demonstration and discover how data-driven waste management can support their sustainability goals. For more information, visit https://www.recorra.co.uk/ Tel: 020 7407 9100 |
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| High-efficiency surface sanitation | 07/09/2026 |
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THE UV-C Miracle Wand V2 (UV-C Hand-Held Sanitiser) is a premium, professional-grade germicidal handheld device engineered by UV-C Light Products for high-efficiency commercial surface sanitation, achieving the highest level of hygiene best practice and is affordable to every industry. Priced at £495.00, this is the most powerful battery-operated handheld UV-C sanitiser on the market, uniquely tailored to meet the rigorous daily disinfection and sanitisation requirements of the healthcare, hospitality and food industries. Keeping everyday high-touch items, such as shared computer keyboards, elevator buttons, desktops and surfaces, has never been more important. Items and surfaces that are used regularly, especially by multiple users, can accumulate harmful germs. The UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 (UV-C Hand-Held Sanitiser) offers a simple, portable and versatile way to rapidly sanitise surfaces and individual items, utilising the germicidal ‘C’ band at a wavelength of 253.7 nm. The UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 is designed to be used in conjunction with daily cleaning regimes as a ‘belt and braces’ best practice and leaves no harmful residue on treated surfaces. Due to the unique design of the UV-C Miracle Wand V.2 (UV-C Hand-Held Sanitiser), the device is convenient and flexible. Its portable format allows users to treat items and surfaces without the need to be near a wall socket, thus eliminating any health and safety risks with trailing electrical leads. For more information, visit www.uvc-lightproducts.com Tel: 07398 420514 |
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| UK hospitality faces 'digital-first' shift | 02/09/2026 |
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A NEW study commissioned and published by immersive technology specialist Apollo3D reveals a fundamental transformation in how UK consumers research, evaluate, and book hospitality venues. The research findings highlight that 66% of consumers now rely on pre-visit digital venue exploration, including 3D virtual tours, interactive mapping, and immersive visual content, before committing to visit or spend money at hotels, restaurants, pubs, bars, and entertainment venues. The findings demonstrate that transparent online visual access has quickly evolved from a marketing luxury into a core commercial necessity for the UK hospitality trade. The survey also shows how changing consumer behaviour and economic selectivity are reshaping expectations across the hospitality and leisure sector. Rather than relying solely on static image galleries or third-party review platforms, prospective guests increasingly demand interactive digital experiences that allow them to thoroughly inspect physical spaces before stepping foot inside. Demand is particularly pronounced among younger, high-spending demographics: among adults aged 25 to 34, nearly a quarter (24%) rank the ability to virtually tour a venue and its facilities online as a top critical factor in their booking decision. This requirement substantially outranks standard website photography (14%), with 18% of 25-to-34-year-olds explicitly stating that a virtual tour makes them significantly more likely to make a booking. Beyond driving initial interest, immersive 3D mapping plays a crucial role in converting interest into actual financial transactions. Across all age brackets, 13% of consumers report feeling far more confident spending money when they can properly explore a venue online beforehand, while 14% view online venue inspection as equally important to an in-person site visit. This shift is further reinforced by heightened travel costs, with 8% of respondents stating they now exclusively book venues they have thoroughly vetted online to avoid wasted journeys. The appetite for pre-visit spatial exploration is particularly strong across major urban centres, led by London (17%), Birmingham (15%), Cardiff (14%), Glasgow (14%), and Central England overall (13%). Mark Shepherd, founder and managing director of Apollo3D, stresses that high-resolution 3D virtual tours and mapping have become vital infrastructure for hospitality operators striving for a commercial edge. He said: "When people arrange a night out, book a weekend getaway, or plan a major event, they want complete clarity. They want to see the seating layout, feel the atmosphere, check accessibility, and know exactly what they are paying for before they step through the door or pay a deposit. At Apollo3D, we've spent years working alongside hotel groups, independent restaurant owners, pub operators, and commercial venue managers across the UK. What this data confirms is what we see on the ground every day,high-resolution 3D virtual tours are active revenue drivers that convert casual website browsers into confident, paying guests." Emphasising that a 24/7 interactive digital twin delivers a tangible competitive advantage across diverse commercial sectors, Mark Shepherd added: “Whether it is a couple searching for a wedding venue, a corporate team reserving a conference hall, or a group booking a table for a celebration, offering a detailed 3D spatial model removes hesitation, builds immediate trust, and speeds up decision-making.” Drawing on extensive hands-on experience capturing complex physical spaces across hospitality, commercial property, retail, and heritage sectors, Apollo3D’s team of experts recognises that venues incorporating Matterport digital twins and Google-integrated virtual tours benefit from higher direct booking rates, lower customer inquiry overheads, and significantly enhanced search engine visibility. Operators who offer total visual transparency online are positioning themselves at the forefront of an increasingly digital-first marketplace. Founded in 2017, Apollo3D’s widening portfolio spans from mapping international retail layouts for brands like Primark and Marks & Spencer to creating immersive walkthroughs for historic regional hospitality venues. With the launch of their new global platform, the Otley firm is rapidly transitioning from a regional scanning supplier into a software-led partner for international estate analytics. |
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