For members of the CHSA this strengthens their reputation for providing quality, fit-for-purpose product and delivers real competitive advantage. Their customers gain confidence in their supplier and reduced risk in purchasing. 

Nicky Biggart, chair of the CHSA's Accreditation Schemes, said: "The credibility of our Accreditation Schemes is critically important to our members. It is the evidence they stand apart from the competition. It differentiates our manufacturing members from those who make spurious product claims or inadequate products and gives our distributor members the information they need to hold all their manufacturers to the standards we demand. This credibility is built on rigorous, independent inspection. Every product test, every label review and every piece of evidence we check strengthens the confidence buyers can have in CHSA Accredited products.”

The auditing process increased in complexity in 2026 as the rigour of the Accreditation Schemes tightened. Auditing involves reviewing labelling to make sure ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’, assessing the members’ quality systems, and ensuring product claims can be substantiated with appropriate evidence. For manufacturers, the Independent Inspector, David Luffman, is also checking members’ Ethical Audit status. 

During the first six months of 2026, the Independent Inspector completed 56% of the audits for the Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue, Plastic Sacks, Cotton Mops and Cleaning Chemicals. The auditing process for Accredited Distributors has also begun and will be a focus for the second half of the year. 

Across the Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue, Plastic Sacks and Cotton Mops, 869 product labels have been examined, and 230 products independently tested against the relevant CHSA dimensional, weight and performance standards. The results have been positive with only a minor historical issue currently being addressed. Audits of the Scheme for Manufacturers of Cleaning Chemicals involve a greater number of products and product types and so are more complex. Again, results are positive with no warning notices issued. 

Inspection itself has evolved in 2026. As well as verifying compliance, there is an increasing emphasis on supporting continuous improvement by helping members strengthen their processes. This approach delivers real value to members by improving efficiency, helping manage risk and reduce costs associated with non-compliance.

The Accreditation Schemes also continue to attract new members, reflecting the value of independent verification and the commercial advantage CHSA Accreditation provides.

Nicky Biggart, continued: "The Schemes continue to evolve to reflect the changing needs of our industry. As expectations around product quality, transparency and responsible manufacturing increase, our audits give members the evidence they need to secure competitive advantage."

Members of the Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue and Plastic Sacks are audited twice a year. Members of the Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers for Cleaning Chemicals and Cotton Mops are audited once a year. Regional Distributors are audited once a year. For National and Group Distributors, five members of the group or branches of the national business are audited each year

Every CHSA member is required to sign the CHSA’s rigorous Code of Practice. The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;
• Provides supporting information for claims made;
• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and
• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

Grief Encounter was named the CHSA’s nominated charity in 2019. Following this year’s donation the total sum raised for Grief Encounter is now £60,000. 

Grief Encounter supports grieving children, young people and their families to find hope, healing and build resilience following the death of someone close. The charity relies entirely on voluntary gifts. 

Andy Watts, Head of Partnerships at Grief Encounter said: “Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant rise in grieving families reaching out for help. As awareness grows, so does demand. To meet this urgent need, we have to raise £3 million this year to continue providing tailored, life‑changing support. We are entirely reliant on the generosity of our supporters and loyal partners like the CHSAplay an invaluable role in making our work possible.

“In the past year alone, thanks to donations like this, 2,263 people received support from Grief Encounter, 961 young people accessed therapy and over 120 families attended therapeutic events including residential weekends and our Forever Night memory-making event. As a result of this amazing contribution over 90% of children and young people reported improved resilience and wellbeing.”

One child in every UK classroom will experience the death of someone close by the time they reach 16 years old. Studies have shown bereaved children can face long-term social and emotional difficulties if they do not receive the right support at the right time, following the death of someone close.

David Garcia, Vice President and Treasurer of the CHSA and the driving force behind the gala ball said: “We are proud our members come together to raise such a significant sum for this amazing charity. 

“Grief Encounter has put the money we have raised over the years to very good use. We are always delighted to hear the individual stories of the young people who, because of Grief Encounter’s work, are more resilient and able to grieve their loss.”

The sponsors of the 2026 Gala Ball made a significant contribution. They were: SC Johnson, Kimberly-Clark, Essity, Metsa Tissue, Bio Productions and Vow Wholesale.

For more information, visit​ www.chsa.co.uk

https://www.griefencounter.org.uk/

The Bursary offers substantial financial support to the children of CHSA members’ employees. For CHSA members it presents a valuable opportunity to thank employees for their contribution, while introducing the next generation of talent to the cleaning and hygiene industry. 

Following a panel interview, chaired by David Garcia, Vice President and Treasurer of the CHSA, Finlay Dowling, Emma Lawrie, Elisha Round and Ellie Wakefield were selected as the recipients.  

The four recipients will each receive £6,000 over the course of their university career, paid in three installments. At the start of each academic year, or the first three years if the degree is longer, the successful applicants will receive £2,000. 

Finlay Dowling is planning to study dentistry at Newcastle University. His parent works for CHSA member Essity. Emma Lawrie, whose parent works at Ramon Hygiene, is planning to study an MEarthSci Earth Science at the University of Edinburgh. Elisha Round is planning to study an MChem in Chemistry at Lancaster University. Her parent also works at Essity. Ellie Wakefield’s parent works at Vectair Systems. She is planning to study a BA (Hons) Business & Management at Sheffield Hallam University.

Since it was first awarded in 2016 in its current form, the Bursary has made it possible for young people to capitalize on the potential of all that is on offer at university. They have used it to pay for books and study materials, field trips and club memberships. 

Applicants were assessed according to need, worthiness endeavour, and overall performance.   

David Garcia explained: “The Bursary is incredibly important to the CHSA. We are very proud of the opportunity to give something back in such a tangible way. 

“Meeting these talented young people is always a pleasure but making the final decision this year was more difficult than ever. We had a record number of applicants and the standard was extraordinary. We could have awarded the Bursary many times over, but we had to make a decision. After two days of interviews and detailed discussions we settled on the four who excelled in the criteria: need, worthiness, endeavour and overall performance. We very much hope the final four, and all the applicants, enjoy their time at university and wish them the very best for the future.”   

For more information, visit www.chsa.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

The winners are:

• Manufacturer of the Year: Cromwell Polythene Ltd
• Regional Distributor of the Year: Newhall Janitorial
• National Distributor of the Year: Jangro
• Rising Star: Emily Downing of Cleenol Group Ltd
• Outstanding Contribution: Paul Fleetwood of Cromwell Polythene Ltd

The CHSA also made the occasional award for Lifetime Achievement, naming Mike Stubbs. During his long career in the cleaning and hygiene sector, Mike Stubbs has played a pivotal role in developing the industry and driving up standards. He worked tirelessly to create and develop the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes and in doing so transformed standards in the industry. He also mentored many individuals in the industry, recognising their talent and supporting their progress.

The winners were revealed at the CHSA’s annual Gala Ball on Thursday 18 June at VOCO St John’s, Solihull, in front of leading industry professionals. 

CHSA members were invited to nominate their candidates for the awards, the final selection being made by a panel of industry leaders comprising Stephen Harrison, Jo Long, Mike Revell and David Garcia. The panel members were recused from the category relevant to their business. 

The Distributors of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year were assessed according to their values, quality and commitment, and their approach to sustainability. Their values had to support and embody the CHSA’s values. They had to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining standards and ethical practice and promote sustainability best practice.

Cromwell Polythene has been a long-standing supporter of the CHSA, active on the CHSA’s Governing Council and the working group taking forward the Accreditation Scheme for Plastic Sacks. Cromwell Polythene is also vocal about the value of its membership of the CHSA and is an active contributor to the CHSA’s Roadmap to Sustainability. 

Newhall Janitorial was recognised as an outstanding independent distributor, operating with strong ethical principles and delivering exceptional service across all areas of its business. Under the leadership of the Powells the company has successfully transformed a traditional janitorial operation into a modern, forward-thinking organisation.

Jangro was acknowledged as a highly active supporter of the CHSA, playing an important role in the ongoing development of the Association and the wider industry. The company also demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, embedding it as a core pillar across its entire network.

The Rising Star evidenced exceptional performance, impact, rapid growth, initiative, a commitment to development, and professionalism and collaboration. The winner of Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA has a track record of going above and beyond, making a significant impact on the CHSA and the cleaning and hygiene industry. 

Rising Star Emily Downing, joined Cleenol as the most junior member of the technical team 18 months ago and is already developing an industry reputation. She consistently goes above and beyond her immediate responsibilities to identify improvements and new possibilities. Within three months of joining the business, Emily was representing the technical department in meetings with external suppliers and customers. When the person holding the post took maternity leave, Emily stepped into the role of Lead Chemist, her reliability, technical ability and maturity making her very capable despite her relative lack of experience. Outside her core role, she works with the marketing team to deliver a more effective and engaging education strategy to internal and external audiences. Emily continually seeks to improve her knowledge and personal growth, regularly attending British Chemicals Association seminars and exhibitions. Outside her company role, Emily tutors young people in STEM. Emily also supports Cleenol’s CSR initiatives by taking part in the Day to Make a Difference scheme. Last year she completed the Oxford Half Marathon raising over £700! 

Paul Fleetwood has been a long-standing, passionate and key influencer in the CHSA’s Accreditation Scheme for Plastic Sacks. He has been on the CHSA’s Governing Council since April 2009 and is as big of an advocate for the today as he has ever been. He is committed to the Association consistently attending and contributing to Council and Panel discusses. His focus has always been and remains on the importance of the CHSA and what it represents. 

Tracey Black of SC Johnson, CHSA Council member and the driving force behind the creation of the awards, said: "The CHSA Excellence Awards celebrate the individuals and organisations driving our industry forward. These winners exemplify exceptional performance, commitment, and leadership, and we are proud to recognise their contribution."

• Manufacturer of the Year: sponsored by Nationwide Hygiene Group
• Regional Distributor of the Year: sponsored by Greyland
• National Distributor of the Year: sponsored by Greyland
• Rising Star: sponsored by Harrison Wipes
• Outstanding Contribution: sponsored by Evans Vanodine

For more information, visit chsa.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

Briefly describe your role and what a typical week looks like?

Typical is probably the one word I’d say doesn’t apply!

I’m often triaging queries, identifying what’s urgent, what’s important, and who’s best placed to respond. Sometimes that’s about connecting people. Sometimes it’s gently steering away enquiries that are not CHSA-related.

I keep a close eye on everything that’s going on behind the scenes – making sure progress is made, deadlines met, and nothing falls through the cracks. I’m also a bit of an ‘eyes and ears’for the Chair, flagging anything important they might not yet be aware of – a slightly Yes Minister-style role at times!

In any given week, I could be:

• Responding to members and prospective members
• Managing the membership process with the Membership Secretary
• Updating and maintaining the membership database
• Evolving the back office to improve our efficiency
• Supporting key projects, AGMs, working groups, and Council meetings
• Organising and managing meetings. Finding dates everyone can do is always a challenge
• Preparing the papers, taking minutes, and chasing actions.

So yes … no two weeks are ever the same.

What attracted you to the CHSA?

I’ve spent my career working with membership and not-for-profit organisations, so it was a natural fit. The CHSA is doing genuinely important work that makes a difference, and it was an opportunity to use that experience in a meaningful way.

What do you love most about your role?

It’s incredibly satisfying when all the moving parts come together – when information is gathered, responses agreed, and a project can move forward. A lot of the work involves coordinating with Council or working group members who are juggling busy day jobs. Knowing when to gently nudge is key.

Why are the Accreditation Schemes so important?

They involve physical audit visits – and that really matters. Many accreditations rely on paperwork, but the Inspector goes into members and checks their products and processes. It’s about ‘holding feet to the flames’ and making sure standards are genuinely met.

What might members not realise about the work behind the Schemes?

Quite how much goes on behind the scenes.

The Schemes are under constant review to make sure they stay relevant and fit for purpose. Updating standards and technical regulations is an ongoing, detailed process … it can feel a bit like painting the Forth Bridge!

We’ve also been developing clearer resources for members to make navigating the complexity of the Schemes as straightforward as possible.

How has the industry changed since you joined?

I became Secretary in March 2020 – just as the pandemic hit – so it was a baptism of fire.

There was an immediate need for fast, accurate communication and regular updates. At the same time, we were setting up the Chemical Manufacturer Accreditation Scheme, so it was a crucial moment for reinforcing standards and sharing that ‘buyer beware’ message.

What do you enjoy most about working with CHSA members?

The people. There are so many friendly, committed individuals – often running businesses or holding senior roles – who give their time and energy to the Association. It’s a real pleasure to support them, and even nicer when you get to ‘put a face to an email’ at events like the Ball.

If you had to describe the CHSA in three words?

Necessary. Worthwhile. Rewarding.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Going to auctions … which can be dangerous! I often come away with things I hadn’t planned to buy and then have absolutely no space for them. They sometimes end up going straight back into another auction.

One memorable purchase was an enormous wooden donkey – big enough to rival the Trojan Horse. Not my wisest investment, but one of the funniest … the whole auction room burst out laughing when I won it!

If you weren’t doing this role, what might you be doing?

Spending far too much time at auction houses.

What might surprise people about you?

I’ve done welding and blacksmithing courses – and made some pretty good pieces! I just haven’t quite found the time to take it further … yet.

How do you like to unwind?

A wine tasting – or enjoying the results of a previous one!

Finally, what message would you like to share with CHSA members?

A lot of your fellow members – many in senior roles – give a significant amount of their time voluntarily to support the Association. They care deeply about the CHSA, its members, and the wider industry, and are committed to ensuring it continues to grow and raise standards.

For more information, visit http://www.chsa.co.uk/

Tel: 0800 243 919

The report, What’s Coming in Environmental Legislation for UK Cleaning & Hygiene Manufacturers (2026–2028), includes the incoming legislation covering chemicals, packaging, carbon reporting, wastewater and green claims. It warns businesses that sustainability compliance, once a competitive differentiator, is rapidly becoming a baseline requirement for market access.

Prepared by Vikki Morris of Evans Vanodine and Dr. Maija Pohjakallio of Metsä Group, the report highlights the growing divergence between UK and EU regulation following Brexit and the increasing complexity facing companies trading across both jurisdictions.

Among the key issues identified are tighter controls on PFAS chemicals and microplastics under EU REACH, increasing scrutiny of biocidal products, and significant new obligations linked to packaging reform. 

The authors warn that businesses supplying both the UK and EU markets face mounting duplication risks, higher compliance costs and growing administrative burdens, particularly around chemical registrations, packaging reporting and product sustainability data.

The report encourages manufacturers and distributors to begin preparing now by auditing product portfolios for high-risk substances, reviewing exposure to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees, strengthening supplier engagement and building robust environmental data systems. The CHSA says companies that view compliance as a strategic investment rather than a reactive cost will be best placed to protect margins, maintain market access and build resilience.

For more information, visit http://www.chsa.co.uk/

Tel: 0800 243 919

Initially elected to the CHSA’s Council at the 2018 AGM Lorcan is Sales Director of Amcor’s Industrial business in the UK. 

The election to Life Vice President took place at the Association’s May Council meeting in recognition Lorcan’s outstanding leadership during his seven years as Chair of the CHSA, from 2019 to 2026. 

During his tenure, Lorcan played a pivotal role in strengthening the professionalism, reputation and influence of the Association. Under his leadership, the CHSA further enhanced its standing as a trusted voice for integrity, transparency and ethical practice within the cleaning and hygiene sector. This included incorporating the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code into the CHSA’s Code of Practice, introducing an Ethical Audit Requirement and an Ethical Marketing Commitment. 

He also steered the CHSA through the COVID-19 pandemic. This represented a particular challenge to the sector as unscrupulous businesses emerged making unfounded claims about their performance. The CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes were a beacon, buyers able to be certain they got what they paid for: ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. Our Standards, Your Guarantee. 

Commenting on the appointment, the Nick Thompson, the chair of the CHSA said: “Lorcan’s leadership, dedication and unwavering focus on standards have left a valuable legacy for the Association and its members.

“His election as Life Vice President reflects the esteem in which he is held by colleagues across the sector and acknowledges the lasting impact of his contribution to the cleaning and hygiene industry.”

“The CHSA’s Council were pleased to recognise Lorcan’s immense contribution with this honour.”

Titled “Introduction to Waste Management – understanding and managing your risk”, the session will provide a structured, practical overview of the legal, regulatory and operational landscape shaping waste management in the UK.

The waste management arena is evolving, with Digital Waste Tracking on the horizon and the arrival of Simpler Recycling. Customers expect compliance to all regulations and adherence to best practice and there are risks in getting it wrong. Assuming the waste service provider has it in hand could be costly, with financial and criminal penalties liable, whether or not the error was intentional. This introductory webinar will provide delegates with initial guidance on the practical steps they can take to manage their liabilities and implement robust waste management processes. 

The experts presenting are:

• Tina Benfield, Technical Manager at the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), will cover the current landscape, the impact of Simpler Recycling and the implications of closed-loop schemes. She has over 26 years’ experience supporting professionals in the resource and waste sector. She specialises in helping organisations stay up to date with policy and technical developments, with expertise spanning healthcare waste, energy from waste and environmental health issues such as fly-tipping and litter. 
• Craig Burman, Solicitor at Burman Environmental Law, will cover legal definitions, obligations under environmental legislation, duty of care, and potential offences and penalties. He is a dual-qualified UK and New Zealand solicitor specialising in waste and water law, environmental incidents and regulatory enforcement. He advises businesses and individuals on compliance and risk management and has extensive experience supporting regulators in enforcement action. 
• Mike Hibbert, an experienced waste management consultant, will provide practical insights into implementing robust systems and managing contractor relationships effectively, including the key questions to ask. Mike has worked in the waste sector for 39 years across a range of roles including for local authorities, Environment Agency, universities, CIWM and a mix of consultancy for government bodies and private sector companies in the UK and internationally. He has specific expertise and qualifications in resource and waste management with a particular focus on processing of materials to End of Waste status, hazardous waste, training and legal compliance.

Visit the CHSA website to book your place

Expert-led webinar to address growing complexity and risk in waste management - CHSA

The appointment marks a step change for the CHSA: it is the first time the Association has committed to a permanent role.

Nick Thompson took up his post on 1 May 2026.

Nick succeeds Lorcan Mekitarian, who has served as chair in a voluntary capacity, for the past seven years. During his tenure, Lorcan strengthened the professionalism of the Association, developing its reputation and that of its members for integrity and transparency. He has also helped reinforce the rigour and credibility of the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes, helping to ensure the Association continues to be trusted as the guardian of standards in the cleaning and hygiene sector.

The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process. The Association invited applications from across the market. A panel of experienced industry executives interviewed the shortlist, and the selected candidate was then voted for and confirmed by the CHSA’s Governing Council.

Nick currently acts as an advisor to organisations operating in the FM and business support space, is an independent non-executive director of the IOSH Services, an advisory board member at the London School of Science and Technology, and chair of a Prison Employment Advisory Board. During his career he been senior vice president global FM Services at Sodexo, and group director of Workplace Services at Royal Mail Group. He will bring expertise, vision and market experience to the CHSA and is well placed to lead the Association through the next phase of its evolution. 

Commenting on his appointment, Nick Thompson said: “I am very pleased to take up the role of chair of the CHSA. The Association and its Accreditation Schemes are important to maintaining standards in the industry. I am looking forward to meeting members and representing their interests as we evolve the Association and continue to strengthen the rigour of the Schemes and the value of membership.”

The CHSA is run by its members for its members. In his first 100 days as chair, Nick Thompson will focus on meeting members. His intent is to understand their priorities and so shape the Association’s future direction to ensure it represents members’ interests effectively. 

The CHSA is a strategic organisation and the recognised guardian of standards within the cleaning and hygiene sector. Through its work it ensures members uphold the principle: Our Standards. Your Guarantee.

The CHSA maintains standards through its Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers of soft tissue, plastic sacks, cotton mops and cleaning chemicals, as well as for distributors of cleaning and hygiene products. These schemes guarantee that “what’s on the box is what’s in the box.” Their validity is underpinned by independent inspection, with members audited annually to ensure continued compliance.

In addition, all members adhere to the CHSA’s rigorous Code of Practice, which includes the Competition and Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code.

For more information, visit chsa.co.uk/

Tel: 0800 243 919

The winners of the inaugural awards will be announced at the CHSA’s annual Gala Ball, which takes place on Thursday 18 June at voco St John’s in Solihull. 

Four awards will be made:

• Distributor of the Year: sponsored by Greyland Ltd
• Manufacturer of the Year
• Rising Star
• Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA

Tracey Black, CHSA Council member and the driving force behind the creation of the awards, explained: “This is an exciting new initiative for the CHSA. Our purpose is to recognise the enormous contribution made by individuals in our industry, the emergent new talent and the manufacturers and distributors who work hard to take the industry forward. 

“We’re extremely grateful to the sponsors who are making this celebration of excellence possible.”

The shortlists for Manufacturer of the Year and Distributor of the Year will be compiled by an independent panel of senior industry executives, the final winners being selected by a vote amongst CHSA members. 

CHSA members will be invited to nominate individuals for the Rising Star and Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA categories. An independent panel will then select the winners from the nominations. 

The Distributor of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year will be assessed according to their values, quality and commitment, and their approach to sustainability. Their values must support and embody the CHSA’s values. They must demonstrate their commitment to maintaining standards and ethical practice and they must promote sustainability best practice.

The Rising Star will evidence exceptional performance, impact, rapid growth, initiative, a commitment to development, and professionalism and collaboration. The winner of Outstanding Contribution to the CHSA will have a track record of going above and beyond, have evidence of making significant impact on the CHSA or the cleaning and hygiene industry, have made a sustained long-term contribution or delivered a single major achievement, have demonstrated leadership and served as a role model. 

For more information, visit www.chsa.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919