How was 2024 for the cleaning industry?

A highlight of 2024 was the ISSA Cleaning and Hygiene Expo, which brought together over 2,700 attendees from 29 countries at ICC Sydney. The event has become a key date on the industry calendar, providing a platform to showcase innovations and address major challenges in cleaning and facilities solutions.

The expo focused on advancements in products and technology, data management tools, sustainability, green initiatives and key legislative, government and social issues. It also explored the evolving landscape of business operations.

Reflecting the theme of innovation, the ISSA Excellence Awards recognised significant industry advancements. Two new award categories were introduced: ‘Innovation – Environmental Awareness & Sustainability’ and ‘People’s Choice’. Engagement in the People’s Choice Awards was particularly strong, highlighting the increasing interest in industry recognition.

Another key development was the launch of the ISSA Hygieia Network in the Oceania and Asia Pacific region. This initiative supports women in the industry through education, mentoring and networking programmes. The launch event, held at the ISSA Cleaning and Hygiene Expo, featured a ‘Women in Cleaning and Facility Solutions’ breakfast with the Honourable Jodie Harrison MP and a panel of industry leaders.

Education was also a major focus, with record attendance at sessions covering topics such as bidding and estimating, AI in business and hygiene standards. Additionally, ISSA launched an updated Value of Clean Toolkit, providing the latest data and resources to support discussions on the value of cleaning.

What is planned for 2025?
The ISSA Cleaning and Hygiene Expo will return to ICC Sydney on 29-30 October 2025. With attendance growing each year, the event is expected to remain a major industry highlight.

The ISSA Excellence Awards will continue to celebrate industry achievements, with strong engagement anticipated in the ‘People’s Choice’ category.

The ISSA Hygieia Network will expand its support for women in the industry, while the ISSA Emerging Leaders Awards will be introduced in the Oceania and Asia Pacific region. This programme, which debuted successfully in North America in 2024, aims to foster young talent in the cleaning industry.

Education and training will remain a priority, with ongoing sessions designed to support industry professionals. In addition, ISSA will introduce the ISSA Metric Cleaning Times, a directory that provides verified cleaning time benchmarks for various tasks and processes, helping service providers improve efficiency.

What trends are shaping the cleaning industry?
Sustainability is a dominant trend, with businesses facing growing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint. Companies are increasingly adopting eco-friendly cleaning solutions, meeting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria and integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices.

Public health remains a key focus, particularly in hygiene and air quality, as COVID-19 reinforced the vital role of the cleaning industry.

Technology is transforming operations. Automation, data management and AI-driven solutions are enhancing efficiency. AI is now being used in autonomous cleaning, data analysis, business strategy, procurement and customer service.

What are the biggest challenges facing the industry?
Cost efficiency continues to be a major concern. The local market has been affected by global economic and political factors, leading to supply chain disruptions and rising costs for materials, shipping and equipment. Inflation, regulatory changes and operational costs are also impacting profitability.

Workplaces are evolving due to AI and automation, which are shifting job roles and increasing the demand for new skills. Continuous learning is essential for organisations and employees to adapt to these changes.

Concerns over data privacy are growing as technological developments advance. Australia’s first phase of reforms under the Privacy and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (CTH) is currently under Parliamentary review, with a second phase expected soon. These changes will have significant implications for compliance, customer interactions and business operations.

What does good leadership mean in 2025?
Adaptability and resilience will remain essential leadership qualities. Recent years have emphasised the need for leaders to be both strategic and agile in response to rapid changes.

The workplace is undergoing significant transformation, from technological advancements to hybrid work environments and evolving team dynamics. Leaders must be flexible in supporting their teams while building strong relationships. Emotional intelligence (EQ) will be a critical skill for managing these changes effectively.

Upskilling and continuous learning are vital for future-proofing teams. However, leaders must also be mindful of change fatigue. Effective change management will play an increasingly important role in leadership strategies.

This is an exciting time for the cleaning industry as it continues to drive innovation, sustainability, public health and business optimisation. At ISSA, we remain committed to supporting our members and promoting cleaning as an investment in human health, the environment and business success through our tools, training, networking, the ISSA Cleaning and Hygiene Expo and our leading publication, INCLEAN.