“The growing trend is the integration of robotic technology. Robots excel at executing routine and repetitive tasks with heightened efficiency compared to human counterparts. Operating without breaks, they can cover expansive areas in a short timeframe, thereby boosting overall productivity. While the upfront investment in cleaning robots may be substantial, the long-term financial gains can be significant. Robots have the potential to reduce labour costs, and their maintenance expenses may prove to be more economical over time compared to employing a human workforce. The trend is driven by the desire for increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved safety measures, making cleaning robots an increasingly integral part of modern cleaning operations.” Michelle Miles, ANZ Country Lead, Diversey ANZ

“There are several key trends the industry needs to adapt to as we move forward post-Covid. The first is reinforcing standards of clean and hygiene expectations. Post-pandemic, consumers expect clean and hygienic facilities, and as businesses we need to raise the bar and provide those standards. Additionally, the dynamic between working from home and presenteeism in the office will continue to create challenges for the industry this year.  Lastly, real action on sustainability is needed by the industry. Product stewardship, the removal of harmful ingredients, the transition away from plastics, innovation to remove CO2 emissions are all necessary measures in 2024 from both a product level and from an organisational level.” Jonathan Weiss, Commercial Director of B2B for UK, Europe, Australia & NZ, Reckitt

“Sustainability will be a key focus for us in 2024. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are wanting to align themselves with brands that share similar values and beliefs. Not only that, but consumers are seeking transparency from the brands they buy from and our customers are also expecting that same level of disclosure.” Joe Camilleri, Managing Director, Central Cleaning Supplies

“Artificial Intelligence will be all anybody is talking about regarding big global trends of 2024. It was almost non-existent in most sectors in 2022, however, the end of 2023 saw many businesses embracing it to maximise the quality of their work in many parts of their respective businesses. The ability for companies to access so many data point with a click of a button allows streamlined processes in so many parts of all businesses and will fundamentally change the way many roles are conducted.” Lucas Paris, Managing Director – Australia, MotorScrubber

“In a word, consolidation. The last two years have shifted the market and economic environments. I do not believe we will be heading back to the same conditions as before 2020 any time soon, so companies will need to learn how to operate under these new conditions. They will have to find the value in systems and technology they have now, rather than spend big on new investments. Staff will stick around for longer, so invest in their knowledge and productivity.” Mark Fermor, General Manager APAC, TEAM Software by Workwave

“I think we will see the market further normalise in 2024 with customers losing some of the pandemic focus on infection prevention. Staff shortages will continue with low unemployment. Increasing robotic usage with decreasing costs, automation and the introduction of AI will continue to make inroads in the industry.” Darran Leyden, Managing Director, Whiteley Corporation

“Our customers are continually evolving in their needs and sophistication, and anything that will create efficiencies or benefits for them is how we see the market trending. These trends will focus on sustainability, innovation, and automation.” Wayne Hill, CEO, RapidClean

“The most significant trend is the increased use of technology, such as automation and data analytics, to improve efficiency and productivity. Also, the adoption of green cleaning practices to promote sustainability and minimise environmental impact. Another trend is a greater emphasis on compliance and ethical practices, including the use of worker-friendly cleaning products and fair labour practices.” – Kim Puxty, CEO, BSCAA

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