African Cleaning Review NovDec '23 by African Cleaning Review

November/December 2023

Hygiene • Cleaning • Pest Control • Textile Care • Facility Management Services

In this issue: Hospitality cleaning solutions Cleaning a retail environment Rise of flexible workspaces

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 VOL 24 NO. 6 Cover story Prime Cleaning Suppliers is a leading South African cleaning-solutions supplier, established in 1996. Prime Cleaning Suppliers has spent a number of years building strong brands, many of which have been tested by the SABS 1828 and 1853 standards and carry their mark of surety, which gives the customer confidence when using the products. All disinfectants are registered as per Act 29 and are compliant with the VC8054 compulsory specification for disinfectants. Prime Cleaning Suppliers’ complete cleaning solutions cover paper products/dispensers, cleaning chemicals/disinfectants, floorcare machines and cleaning sundries. Prime Cleaning Suppliers has an ongoing commitment to ensure the best longterm solution to their customers and represents the following brands: Aquarius, Kleenex, Scott, Wetrok, WypAll and Rubbermaid Commercial Products.

Opinion

Industry News

Editorial

• Can cleaning staff make or break your company’s reputation?

• Bidvest acquisition set to double its FM footprint down under • Kimberly-Clark Professional launches wind farm • America’s Best Restroom Contest winner announced • Study finds office cleanliness boosts employee fulfilment • Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions has acquired Vermop

• Numatic: Service trolley with flexible and customisable design for hotel cleaning

Hospitality cleaning solutions 10 • Solutions to ease the hotel cleaning burden • Taking the strain off your housekeeping staff and budget • Sustainability and super concentrates for a greener future 20 Retail cleaning solutions • The role of washrooms in a retail setting • How customer experience can guide solutions to retailcleaning complications • How retail cleaning reflects the store brand

Advertorial

Pest Control Update

FM Review

Textile Care Review

People and Events

New Products

• Unilever Professional’s Pledge to a Clean Future

• Returned from Paris? Did you bring back an unwelcome guest?

• The rise of flexible workspaces • White paper published on AI and its impact on the future of facilities services

• Making laundry operations more sustainable by investing in green • Efficient laundry management key to superior guest experience

• Adored TikTok housekeeper revels in offering cleaning tips • NCCA charity golf day • PBEH business breakfast • Cleaning Products Europe – Save the date

• Office Hygiene PackageTM improves workstation satisfaction • The essence of sustainable cleaning

@AfricanCleanMag

AfricanCleaningReview

african-cleaning-review Publishing Editor: Johann van Vuuren +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Advertising: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Operations and Accounts: Nandé Jacobs Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za All editorial contributions can be sent to the editor who reserves the right to publish editorial based on the strength of its content. No articles or photographs may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publishers. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in African Cleaning Review, e-squared publications and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright of all material published in African Cleaning Review remains with e-squared publications and its agents.

Planned features for 2024

Features

African Cleaning Review is aimed at end-users, contractors and suppliers of products and services to Africa’s Cleaning, Hygiene, Maintenance, Laundry, Pest Control and Facility Management Services, industries. It is published every other month by: e-squared publications. Tel: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 PO Box 1976, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za

Feature sections in every issue: • Textile care review • Facilities management review January/February issue: Editorial deadline 15 December • Contract cleaning • Food and beverage hygiene solutions March/April issue: Editorial deadline 17 February • Digital and smart solutions • Waste management solutions May/June issue: Editorial deadline 15 April • Hard floorcare cleaning solutions • Hand hygiene

UPDATE YOUR COMPANY DETAILS Complete the 2024 Buyer’s Guide entry form on page 33 and email to africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Published by:

Official publication and media partner of:

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

from the editor Facility care during a frantic holiday period With the imminent Black Friday sale and the festive season shopping extravaganza upon us, we take a closer look at what it takes to keep shopping centre environments clean during this high traffic period to present a clean, hygienic and welcoming facility. A solution like autonomous cleaning that allows for consistent and efficient work can now become common in retail facilities. The hospitality sector in Africa is growing in market revenue, and the 2023 Hotel and Hospitality Industry Confidence Index indicates that leaders in the industry are optimistic about the future. The pandemic ushered in a new era for housekeeping in hotels with certain multinational hotel chains having resorted to accreditation programmes to make their guests feel safe. This issue looks at various ways to make life easier for hospitality cleaning staff. Be sure to catch up on industry developments and enlightening articles in the Facility Management, Textile Care and People and Events, Pest Control and New Products sections of the magazine. With that, this is the final issue of the year; therefore, we at African Cleaning Review want to thank you for your continued support and wish you a safe and pleasant December holiday period. We look forward to sharing more industry developments and the latest news with you in 2024. Remember to visit next year’s Cleantex Africa exhibition in Johannesburg. Enjoy the read.

opinion

Can cleaning staff make or break your company’s reputation? As the adage goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression, and as a brand, this impression can very easily make or break your business. When it comes to cleaning in the retail sector, often overlooked is just how much can go right or wrong on the customer experience end.

ince larger established retailers outsource their cleaning services to facilities management companies, how their brand is received by their customers can undoubtedly be positively or negatively impacted by the cleaning staff who interact with the shoppers. One must remember that the customers are not always aware that the cleaning staff are outsourced and not directly affiliated with the retailer. This means that a lot of the time, the retailer is absorbing the conduct of the outsourced staff, which then plays a role in the holistic experience of their customer. The question then becomes, how do cleaning service providers align their offering with their client’s brand and what they as a retailer want to achieve? The answer, I believe, comes down to instilling a customer-centric culture within your organisation.

Responsibility beyond just cleaning Customer-centricity is essential in providing a good shopping experience. Since cleaning staff in retail environments are not back of house, but rather front facing, cleaning service providers need to select staff who can go beyond just their cleaning tasks. Chances are, when a customer enters a retailer, one of the first people they encounter is a member of the cleaning staff. They may stop and ask them for directions, and how the staff member responds and handles these interactions can go a long way in the client’s satisfaction with your company’s services at large.

Here are some steps cleaning service providers can take to embed a customer-centric culture within their company:

Recruitment Hire staff who possess good people skills. Preferably workers who are not overly shy, but rather enjoy interacting and have a positive disposition.

Set clear expectations Communicate your expectations around customer centricity. Make it clear to your staff that they are expected to interact positively with the client as well as the clients’ customers.

Training Provide new staff with in-depth training. If necessary, call on outside customer experience experts to train staff on how to approach their front-facing positions. Training should not be a once-off. Continuous improvement is key.

Staff engagement Build positive relationships with your staff. Treat them fairly and keep the lines of communication open. Motivated staff are customer-centric staff. And rest assured, your client is noticing how your staff are treated.

Customer feedback Get regular feedback and insights from your clients on their interactions with the cleaning staff. Use this insight to identify areas for improvement.

opinion One must remember that the customers are not always aware that the cleaning staff are outsourced and not directly affiliated with the retailer. This means that a lot of the time, the retailer is absorbing the conduct of the outsourced staff, which then plays a role in the holistic experience of their customer. Customer journey mapping Put yourself in both your clients’ shoes and the shoes of their customers by way of mapping out their entire experience at each touch point. This will give you a better idea of what interactions with cleaning staff are most likely so that you can empower your staff to handle those interactions appropriately.

groomed for work each day. This not only instils a sense of employee pride in their job but reflects positively on the organisation as a whole.

Customer-focused metrics Set performance metrics related to customer interactions and recognise and reward staff who excel in this area.

Nathalie Schooling

presented the keynote address on Building

Uniforms and appearance

Nathalie Schooling is the CEO of nlightencx,

a Customer-Centric Business at the recent

Make sure your cleaning staff have uniforms that are in good condition. Also, be sure to communicate your expectations around being well-

South Africa’s leading multi-disciplinary

Cleantex Executive Summit held in Cape Town.

customer/client experience specialists voted as the global CX Agency of the Year in 2023.

For more information, visit:

Nathalie and Brendon Bairstow-Klopper

www.nlightencx.com

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

industry news Bidvest acquisition set to double its FM footprint Down under

ndustrial group Bidvest has acquired Australia’s Consolidated Property Services (CPS) from its private shareholders, with the acquisition set to double the group’s facilities

management footprint in the country. The acquisition of CPS follows the purchase of Sydney-based BIC Services by Bidvest in July 2022. Established in 1977, CPS is a leading provider of

integrated property services to more than 145 sites across Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, and employs almost 3,500 people. The Melbourne-based service provider’s core cleaning services are focused on commercial and retail customers and are complemented by technical, hygiene and waste management services. The vast majority of its revenue is generated from direct contacts with building owners and tenants, with many of these relationships spanning in excess of 10 years.

Craig Bowman, General Manager, Kimberly-Clark Professional UK & Ireland said, “It is through responsible and innovative business partnerships and investments in new technology like this agreement with ORIT that enables us to make significant changes in this decisive decade and reach our decarbonisation goals. “We adopt a life cycle approach to sustainability, starting by designing products to reduce consumption, reducing the use of natural resources

and diverting our manufacturing waste from landfill. This enables us to provide customers with high performance products and systems that help them reduce usage and waste.” This partnership is just one of Kimberly-Clark’s ongoing sustainability projects to facilitate the roll out of renewable electricity across Europe, Middle East and Africa, and the continued exploration and development of decarbonisation solutions.

Kimberly-Clark Professional launches wind farm

imberly-Clark, the parent company of leading brands including Andrex®, Kleenex®, Huggies®, WypAll® and Scott®, recently celebrated a major milestone in its ambitious drive towards green energy with the official opening of a new onshore wind farm that will supply around 80 percent of its UK electrical power needs. The £75 million wind farm, which was built in just 18 months in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, is the largest wind asset owned by Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust (ORIT), a company managed by Octopus Energy Generation. Kimberly-Clark has a power purchase agreement for the energy generated. As the global personal care giant’s first wind farm project outside of North America, the 50 MW 12-turbine Cumberhead facility will supply the company with approximately 160,000 megawatt hours (MWh) of renewable energy every year. This will result in a total emissions reduction of 55,625 MTCO2e per year – the equivalent of taking 38,628 passenger vehicles off the road every year.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

SOLUTIONS THAT SIMPLIFY

cleaning@goscor.co.za • goscorcleaning.co.za

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

industry news America’s Best Restroom® Contest winner announced

he Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport was recently declared as the winner of the 2023 America’s Best Restroom® contest. As this year’s winner, the BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport will get to properly crown their restrooms with prizes from Cintas. This includes a Cintas UltraClean® restroom cleaning service and $2,500 in Cintas products and services for restroom cleaning or facility management to keep their restrooms ready for the workday along with a coveted spot in the America’s Best Restroom Hall of Fame. The newly constructed airport restrooms maximise occupant capacity while enhancing the overall passenger experience. The entrance welcomes travellers with an aesthetic mural and seating area to wait for their companions. The new restrooms feature bright, spacious, fully enclosed stalls for privacy, touchless fixtures and individual lactation, adult changing and family-assist rooms. Each restroom features a state-of-the-art smart restroom system that integrates with colour-changing, LED stall occupancy lights and digital signage at the

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

restroom entrances showing current availability. The smart restroom system also provides real-time inventory tracking and usage counts for cleaning services. Now in its 22nd year, the America’s Best Restroom Contest, hosted by Cintas, celebrates innovative and hygienic public restrooms across the country. The BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport was one of 10 finalists selected based on cleanliness, visual appeal, innovation, functionality and unique design elements.

“The state of public restrooms can have a large impact on the public’s perception of a business”, said Cintas’s Julia Walsh. “These restrooms are bright and airy and the embodiment of clean, with natural light and room for luggage.” Cintas Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, helps more than one million businesses get ready to open their doors with confidence every day by providing products and services that keep their customers’ facilities and employees clean, safe and looking their best.

KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL™ WIPING PRODUCTS FOR THE FOOD SERVICE INDUSTRY Find the best product for your wiping needs and tackle any spills, from liquids to oil and grease. With WypAll wipers, cleaning takes less time and effort.

Reduced risk of cross-contamination and compliance with rigorous hygiene standards

From easy to moderately demanding hygienic segregated wiping tasks

Highly effective deep cleaning

WYPALL® X50

WYPALL® X80

Perfect for cleaning the kitchen, wiping tables and counters • Cleaning cooking equipment and tools, absorbing oil and grease • Effective daily cleaning • High absorption rate and capacity, strength and durability

Perfect for segregated wiping of food scraps and cleaning surfaces • Highly absorbent and long-lasting cloths for thorough cleaning, cleaning before a shift handover, production line cleaning on the food service and food processing industries • Can be used dry or dampened with water / disinfectant • 30% better cleaning performance compared to regular wiping cloths

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL* REPRESENTATIVE OR VISIT https://www.kcprofessional.com/en-za African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

industry news Study finds office cleanliness boosts employee fulfilment

n a recent study conducted by Tork, an Essity brand, 86 percent of surveyed office employees emphasised the importance of cleanliness in their work environment. According to the report, this data underscores the role of hygiene in enhancing employee satisfaction and the need for facility leaders to adopt premier hygiene products and solutions. Other key findings from the study revealed the importance of clean washrooms in workplace facilities. • 85 percent of employees believe that the state of workplace washrooms reflects the overall hygiene of the building. • 67 percent of employees are more prone to voice concerns about washroom conditions than any other part of the office.

• Washroom complaints account for more than 45 percent of office building complaints. The Tork study also found that even though facility managers rank cleaning quality as their top concern, they allocate only around 18 percent of their time to enhancing cleaning efficiency and standards. The study indicates that by prioritising efficient washroom maintenance, facility managers can greatly decrease grievances

from office employees. The report suggested that streamlining washroom upkeep will allow for additional cleaning time in other spaces, leading to a tidier office environment, increased employee contentment and enhanced job satisfaction. Essity is a global hygiene and health company that develops, produces and sells personal care, consumer tissue and professional hygiene products and solutions. For more information, visit: www.tork.co.za

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions has acquired Vermop

ermop, with its nearly 330 employees, has offered modular cleaning systems and accessories developed for cleaning professionals for more than 95 years. The company, which has its headquarters in Gilching

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

near Munich and production facilities in Wertheim, Baden-Württemberg, has a strong culture of customer centricity and is highly innovative. Vermop reported sales of around EUR 46 million in 2022. Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions, headquartered in Weinheim, Germany, is one of the eleven divisions of the globally active Freudenberg Group. “We are delighted that this acquisition will enable us to successfully continue our national and international growth strategy and tap into new potential,” said Karin Overbeck, CEO

of Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions. “We complement each other perfectly in terms of our focus, thus creating a strong national player in the German market with very good international prospects,” explained Isabel Merkel, President Professional at Vileda Professional. The full integration of the Vermop brand into the company is to be implemented in the course of the coming year. For more information, visit: www.vileda-professional.co.uk

editorial Numatic Service trolley with flexible and customisable design for hotel cleaning

f you are in the hotel business, you are aware of the importance of providing a clean and comfortable environment for your guests. You also know how challenging it can be to manage different cleaning tasks and supplies in a limited space. That’s why you need a service trolley that can adapt to your specific needs and preferences. The NuKeeper NKU31RFF is a revolutionary product that offers a flexible and customisable design for hotel cleaning. It has a space-saving Flexi-Front and a 100L bag capacity, which can handle large volumes of waste and laundry. It also has optional kits that allow you to configure your trolley with various storage facilities, such as drawers, trays, units and caddies. You can create the perfect trolley for any cleaning requirement, whether it is

for rooms, bathrooms, corridors or lobbies. The NKU31RFF is not only versatile, but durable and eco-friendly. It is made from high-quality, recycled material using ReFlo Technology, which is sustainable and reduces environmental impact. The trolley has a Structofoam construction, which is a unique co-polymer material that is tough, chemical-resistant and easy to clean. The trolley is built to last and withstand daily wear and tear. The NKU31RFF is certified by SCS for its recycled content. This means that it meets the standards of the SCS Recycled Content Standard V7-0, which ensures that the product uses recycled materials that are verified by a third party. The trolley contains at least 50 percent pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled polypropylene content of the total plastic components. It

is designed to enhance your productivity, efficiency and quality. It has non-marking buffers and soft-ride castors that make it easy to move around without damaging the floors or walls. Its professional and uniform appearance matches your hotel’s image and style. It is easy to assemble, store and use and offers great value for money. For more information, visit: www.numatic.co.za

NUKEEPER

Although all hotels are different, one thing is constant and that is the need to provide service excellence and a professional approach. The NuKeeper service trolley is the result of 20 years’ experience and is designed to provide a versatile concept.

Built to Last

Increases Productivity

Ease Sustainably Limitless Engineered Configurations of Transit

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

feature hospitality cleaning solutions

Solutions to ease the hotel cleaning burden

The hospitality sector in Africa is growing. Market revenue across the continent is expected to reach $13.80bn by 2027, according to Statista projections. An average annual growth rate of 8.68 percent is forecast for the sector over the next five years, and the 2023 Hotel and Hospitality Industry Confidence Index indicates that hospitality chiefs are optimistic about the future. This is great news for hoteliers – but the fallout from COVID-19 means they continue to face crippling staff shortages. Tom Marshall from Tork manufacturer Essity looks at solutions that can make life easier for the hotel cleaner.

otel cleaners have a tough job, particularly when they are overstretched. They are typically allocated around 30 minutes to prepare a room for a new guest and just 15 minutes to service an occupied one. And each room must be left spotless because any stray hair or dead fly will be spotted, photographed and uploaded onto social media where it will create horror and outrage. Cleaners are expected to sanitise all other areas of the hotel thoroughly and unobtrusively too – and in the shortest possible time. And the job is also hazardous, since injury rates among hotel cleaners stand at around 50 percent above those of other hotel workers due to the need for stretching and bending, lifting mattresses and moving furniture aside to vacuum floors. Staff members are also often expected to cover a great deal of ground, particularly when cleaning a large complex incorporating pools, guest rooms, restaurants and wellness suites. So, what can be done to make life easier for the hotel cleaner?

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Tork Vision Cleaning also allows cleaners to check remotely whenever a washroom is experiencing high usage or when a dispenser is running out of soap, toilet paper or hand towels. This allows them to stay on top of the game and removes the need for multiple unnecessary physical checks on the washrooms. A growing number of hotels are now deploying robots to carry out tasks such as floor cleaning and delivering toiletries to guest rooms. These can operate throughout the night and will take some of the strain away from human cleaners. High-capacity trolleys will also aid the cleaner, particularly if these are lightweight and manoeuvrable. A larger trolley will avoid the need for repeated trips to the stockroom for extra supplies of soap, paper and toiletries. Where trolleys are not viable – in narrow corridors, between guest lodges or in constricted areas for example – it might be necessary to

physically carry boxes of products to guest rooms and washrooms. Here an ergonomically designed packaging system such as Tork Easy Handling will make life easier. Tork Easy Handling Carry Packs and Carry Boxes have comfortable handles to allow staff to carry two packs at a time, while Tork Carry Boxes fold flat when empty and can be taken to the recycling facility using the integral handles. When forced to work under strict time pressures, it is all too easy for cleaners to overlook some tasks. Hotels should therefore provide a checklist for each cleaner to ensure that all tasks are completed. A ‘smart’ checklist is

feature hospitality cleaning solutions Hotel cleaners work tirelessly behind the scenes to sanitise our public spaces and improve our guest experience. By making a few small changes, hotel managers can dramatically improve their working lives and benefit from improved results, a happier workforce and better staff retention. even better – for example, Tork Vision Cleaning includes a digital cleaning plan function incorporating pictograms and descriptions of each task. This enables the cleaner to tick off each job as it is completed, while the manager can tell at a glance if anything has been missed. Tork Vision Cleaning also allows cleaners to check remotely whenever a washroom is experiencing high usage or when a dispenser is running out of soap, toilet paper or hand towels. This allows them to stay on top of the game and removes the need for multiple unnecessary physical checks on the washrooms.

Keeping the en suite bathroom clean is a major part of the hotel cleaner’s job because these rooms often see the heaviest use. And the design of the en suite can make a major difference to the cleaning burden. Dirt will inevitably collect in the grout lines of tiled floors and walls, so the use of larger tiles or a continuous smooth surface will speed up cleaning. Soap bars create a sticky mess on the sinks, while the half-used bars tend to be discarded after the guest has checked out, adding to the cleaner’s waste burden. The use of a non-drip dispenser for liquid soap allows the cleaner to slot a

new cartridge into place when the soap inside has been used up. This makes life easier for the cleaner while also eliminating the issues of waste and mess, which is a sustainability advantage. Tork Shower Cream works well in hotel rooms because it is a shower gel and shampoo combined. When it comes to cleaning larger hotel washrooms, automatic taps are a good option because they attract fewer fingerprints than manual versions and are, therefore, quicker and easier to clean. And all washroom dispensers should be easy to open, either with a universal key or a push-button in areas where pilferage and vandalism are not an issue. Hotel cleaners work tirelessly behind the scenes to sanitise our public spaces and improve our guest experience. By making a few small changes, hotel managers can dramatically improve their working lives and benefit from improved results, a happier workforce and better staff retention. For more information, visit: www.tork.co.za

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

feature hospitality cleaning solutions

Taking the strain off your housekeeping staff and budget In this article, the experts at Rubbermaid Commercial Products (RCP) look at how investing in efficient and durable cleaning carts could help your business to boost productivity, reduce injury risk and even cut costs.

ospitality businesses across the world have faced a series of unprecedented challenges in recent years, with rising inflation and staffing pressures currently hitting the industry hard. In a recent survey, businesses in the sector reported that after rising costs, staff-related issues were the next most problematic challenge they had faced over the last 12 months. That being said, the hotel and hospitality sector in Africa is showing positive signs of recovery with an 8.68 percent growth rate predicted in the next five years. Maximising this opportunity means a focus on efficiency is essential, and with 78 percent of hotel guests ranking cleanliness as the most important factor affecting their choice of where to stay, the pressure on cleaning and hygiene teams is on. For hospitality businesses to thrive, promoting health and well-being to

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

reduce injury and time off sick, thus protecting productivity, is a must. With hotel workers having a 40 percent higher injury rate than all service sector workers – and housekeepers coming off worst – how can your venue protect your employees and minimise costly disruption? In a post-pandemic world, guests are actively seeking reassurance of housekeeping teams and visible signs of cleaning, so balancing these demands is a challenge.

Efficient storage for increased productivity A well-stocked housekeeping cleaning cart is essential for maximising efficiency and reducing time wasted going back and forth to cleaning stores to reload. Choose a cart that doesn’t just offer a high volume of storage space, but also allows for separation of materials such as waste and a

flexible arrangement of space so your housekeepers can carry the products they need for the job at hand. Investing in a complete system solution that has been specifically designed with efficiency in mind will save your staff time, maximise workflow and make the most of budgets. Prioritise efficiency by opting for a complete system solution designed to accommodate everything from a multitude of cleaning aids and microfibre cloths to hand hygiene provisions, house linens and even multiple streams of recycling and waste.

Choose ergonomics to promote health and safety Invest in the right equipment that will take the strain off your housekeeping teams. continues on page 14 >>

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

feature hospitality cleaning solutions With multiple rooms to clean in a limited time, ensure they are not put at risk of avoidable injuries. In UniteHere’s survey, over 90 percent of housekeepers reported suffering work-related pain, with 77 percent indicating it interfered with routine activities. While more efficient, a fully stocked cart must also be suitably mobile for housekeeping staff to help prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Investing in carts that have been designed with safety and comfort in mind, and have a degree of lightweight manoeuvrability through sturdy wheels and casters, is essential.

Prioritise durable carts to keep long-term costs lower Much like your housekeeping staff, your housekeeping equipment is put through its paces every day, so choosing long-lasting carts that can withstand these tough demands should be a priority for hospitality businesses looking to support productivity and protect budgets. A focus on durability not only removes the unnecessary hassle and expense of replacing lower quality products more frequently, thus protecting budgets, but will also support sustainability targets. With 90 percent of consumers looking for more sustainable options when travelling, it’s clear that your facility’s green credentials should be considered – so buying better and wasting less is a must. RCP’s range of housekeeping carts is available in multiple styles and capacities to provide an essential visible and robust cleaning solution fit to tackle today’s hospitality challenges.

For more information, visit: www.rubbermaid.eu

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Sustainability and super concentrates for a greener future Sustainability has been on the agenda for some years but how many businesses have truly embraced it by changing their processes to deliver the triple bottom line of people, planet and profit? When it comes to sustainability, some hotels will be content to switch to products they consider to be more ‘environmentally friendly’.

ustainability is such an allembracing subject that simply switching formulations can only ever deliver some of the potential benefits. Many housekeeping teams will want to go much further and embed sustainability into their business by changing the way they work and integrating more of their processes, according to Diversey Senior Director Deniz Alpaslan. Adopting super concentrated cleaning products is a good example. Water is added at the point of use rather than at the factory, which means the amount of product required for a specific number of cleaning tasks is less than corresponding bulk and readyto-use alternatives. More chemical and less water is carried on vehicles, which reduces the total road kilometres and carbon footprint of deliveries. Another benefit is that less packaging is required, which means fewer raw materials are consumed and less waste is generated. Ideally the packaging will be fully recyclable. Super concentrates deliver the biggest sustainability benefits when used with dilution or dosing control equipment. This equipment removes the guesswork when preparing solutions to deliver consistency, eliminates waste and reduces costs. Further gains are made because solutions prepared consistently to the manufacturer’s specification reduce the need for expensive and timeconsuming rewashes.

The J-fill system is a good example of one of the Diversey platforms designed to deliver super concentrates in a safe, simple and reliable way. The J-fill platform is the most innovative and versatile chemical dispensing platform in our industry today.

Why is J-Fill the superior platform? • Metering tip in every bottle: Prevents misuse, guarantees cost and eliminates clogged metered tips • Spill-Tite packaging: Significantly reduces the risk for chemical spillage and chemical exposure • Super & hyper concentrated solutions: Deliver best-inclass product performance cost effectively • Full product portfolio: J-Fill offers more than 40 different products to clean in any application and environment • The J-Fill bottle can be used in a variety of unique dispensers: One bottle can be used in multiple dispensers to fit the need of any customer situation This is a four-product water-valveoperated dispensing unit that uses eductor-based technology. The J-Fill dispenser and the J-Fill packaging are a fully enclosed system with Spill-Tite technology that virtually eliminates the user from coming in contact with liquid concentrate. All four products can be dispensed into a bottle or a bucket

feature hospitality cleaning solutions Super concentrates deliver the biggest sustainability benefits when used with dilution or dosing control equipment.

Image by kjpargeter on Freepik

by using the yellow selector valve (SmartValve™). Other benefits include: • The unit can be operated with one hand • Doors are lockable to prevent theft • Dispenser is durable, lightweight and easy to install • Changing super concentrate chemicals is fast and simple • OSHPD certificate for secure mounting that meet seismic building code standards • Dispenser is ASSE 1055-B approved for backflow prevention • Engineered for accurate dilutions For more information about the Diversey J-fill platform, visit Diversey’s Dilution Control Page.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

advertorial Unilever Professional

Unilever Professional’s Pledge to a Clean Future Sustainability Isn’t a Buzzword; It’s a Core Business Principle

The Clean Future Triangle represents our dedication to developing superior cleaning and hygiene products by upholding high-performance standards that are also kinder to our planet and priced affordably.

he journey to a sustainable future is not a sprint; it’s a marathon that takes consistent steps to create meaningful change. At the forefront of this transformation, Unilever Professional is leading the way with its ground-breaking Clean Future Initiative. Launched in 2020, this vision is more than just a commitment; it embodies a world where innovation and sustainability work together for the greater good.

Building a Clean Future The Clean Future Triangle represents our dedication to developing superior cleaning and hygiene products by upholding high-performance standards that are also kinder to our planet and priced affordably. The Clean Future triangle’s three key parts: ‘Superior Cleaning’, ‘Planet Positive’, and ‘Affordable’, serve as a manifesto of Unilever’s sustainable ambitions. The amalgamation of these

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

three principles underscores the essence of Clean Future: Reinventing age-old chemistry to innovate superior cleaning and hygiene products that are kinder to the planet yet affordable for everyone. • Superior Performance: Underscoring the need for products that do not compromise on quality. • Planet-Positive Impact: Highlighting the commitment to creating eco-friendly, sustainable products. • Affordability and Value: Emphasising the importance of making these innovations accessible to all.

Owning the Clean Future Space From the outset, Unilever Professional’s Clean Future vision has prioritised sustainability as a catalyst for future growth. The aim is clear: Make sustainable choices the default, frictionless option. As the

Clean Future initiative has matured, Unilever Professional desires not just to participate in the sustainability conversation but to lead and own the clean future space. This ambition is reflected in their high-performance products that do not compromise on sustainability. In a market saturated with eco-friendly buzzwords, Unilever Professional’s commitment stands out largely because of its genuine drive to bring about industry-wide change. Their public commitments aren’t promises but actionable steps to redefine industry norms.

Building Operator Trust In a world where operators are increasingly wary of greenwashing, Unilever Professional’s Clean Future initiative shines through with its transparency. The company is not just committed to offering trustworthy products but is also transparent about its ingredients.. Such steps underscore that for Unilever, sustainability isn’t a buzzword; it’s a core business principle.

Innovation Meets Sustainability Unilever Professional’s Food Safe* Cleaning Range is a testament to the company’s innovative approach towards sustainability and safety. Balancing between maintaining hygiene standards in food environments and the imperative need for sustainable solutions, Unilever Professional has pioneered products that adhere to stringent safety guidelines while minimising environmental impact. The range uses carefully selected ingredients that ensure effective cleaning without compromising the

advertorial Unilever Professional Unilever Professional’s Food Safe* Cleaning Range is a testament to the company’s innovative approach towards sustainability and safety. quality or safety of food. By rethinking traditional cleaning solutions, Unilever Professional showcases its dedication to a future where cleanliness and sustainability are seamlessly integrated, ensuring consumer safety and a minimised ecological footprint. We understand the unique challenges faced by your cleaners. With the increase in cleaning demands, it is crucial to arm your business with brands and products you can trust. That’s why Unilever Professional’s professional products are specifically designed to make cleaning effortless, cleaning in those hard-to-reach areas, while ensuring your business achieves impeccable results. Unilever Professional’s Clean Future initiative stands as a testament to the company’s genuine commitment to sustainability. The Clean Future triangle isn’t just a symbol; it’s a representation

of a vision where superior cleaning, planet positivity, and affordability merge to define the future of home care products. Unilever’s message is clear: sustainability is not an afterthought; it’s the very essence of innovation. As both Unilever teams and external partners rally behind this vision, the promise of a cleaner, sustainable future seems not just possible, but imminent. Opting for Unilever Professional

products means choosing superior cleanliness, helping you achieve a BETTER CLEAN for a BETTER BUSINESS. *Food Safe indicates that the product is safe to use on food preparation areas if usage instructions on back of pack are followed. This is supported by the certification provided by Intertek, an external company that performed the analysis on Toxicological Safety for Use in Direct Contact Applications (SANS 1828).

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

pest control update

Returned from Paris? Did you bring back an unwelcome guest?

As the Rugby World Cup tournament ended in October, many fans made their way back home to every corner of the globe. And while many returned with fan memorabilia and other trinkets, there may have been some unwanted guests hitching a ride in the luggage, as it’s been reported that the French city of Paris currently has a bedbug infestation. Apparently, the tiny critters have been spotted everywhere, from public transport to hotel beds.

This is what to look out for if you have not seen bedbugs before: Bedbugs are small, flat, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are typically reddishbrown in colour and about the size of an apple seed. However, because they are nocturnal, they hide during the day in cracks and crevices on beds, furniture and other objects, making them very hard to detect. Bedbugs thrive in temperatures of about 18ºC. Even though you might not be able to see them, you will certainly know that they are present because there are clear signs to alert you to their presence.

Professional help

The eggs are tiny and white. They can be found in cracks and crevices as well as on bedding and furniture.

If the bedbug infestation is severe and DIY methods are unsuccessful, it may be necessary to call a professional pest control company as experienced exterminators have the knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate bedbugs.

Once noticed, this is how to get rid of bedbugs: Wash and dry infected items Bedbugs cannot survive high temperatures, so washing infected bedding, clothes and curtains in hot water is an effective way to kill them.

Steam clean

Bedbug bites are usually painless and appear as small red bumps on the skin, which may be itchy or irritating.

Steam cleaning is an excellent method to kill bedbugs and their eggs on surfaces that can withstand high temperatures. Use a steam cleaner to treat mattresses, furniture and other infected areas.

Bloodstains

Use insecticides

Bedbugs can leave bloodstains on bedding, mattresses and other fabrics.

Insecticides can be used to treat cracks, crevices and other hard to reach areas where bedbugs may hide. Look for products labelled specifically for bedbug control and follow the instructions carefully.

Bites

Exoskeletons Bedbugs shed their exoskeletons as they grow. These exoskeletons can be found in cracks and crevices where bedbugs hide.

Eggs

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Tips to help prevent bedbugs: 1. When travelling, rather than placing your suitcase on the bed or luggage rack – both bedbug hotspots – place it on the floor some distance away. 2. Upon your return from travelling, inspect your luggage before bringing it into your home. Look for bedbugs or signs of a bedbug infestation, such as bloodstains, exoskeletons or eggs. 3. Wash your bedding in hot water and dry it on high heat regularly. This will kill any bedbugs that may be present. 4. Vacuum mattresses and furniture regularly especially in cracks and crevices where they may hide.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

feature retail cleaning solutions

The role of washrooms in a retail setting People tend to spend longer at the shops when they know they will have access to a clean and hygienic washroom whenever they need one. In this article, Tom Marshall from Tork manufacturer Essity looks at the important role that washrooms play in the shopping centre environment and considers how these facilities can be equipped for maximum efficiency.

he retail sector has experienced a difficult few years – to say the least. The COVID-19 lockdowns led to most stores having to close throughout the continent, and this inevitably drove many shoppers online. And although some have now returned to the mall, others have either fallen out of the habit of going shopping or have become accustomed to making their purchases via the internet instead. Retail managers and store owners therefore need to work hard to regain the custom of these reluctant shoppers. They also need to increase the amount of time that people will spend in the retail centre because the longer they stay, the more they are likely to spend. So, the washrooms play a pivotal role in the mall because something as minor as poor washroom provision could prove to be the final straw for a resistant shopper. When faced with a messy toilet or a queue for the loo, some customers will simply opt to go home instead. And profits will suffer massively when multiple shopping trips are cut short in this way.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Washrooms in retail centres, therefore, need to be equipped and configured to be pleasant to use and provide a haven for tired shoppers. Fresh flowers, moisturisers and comfortable seating will all help to create a good impression and tempt them to stay longer, for example. The washroom should also always smell fresh, and the facilities should of course be clean and hygienic. The design of a retail washroom can also help to keep it looking cleaner for longer. High-touch surfaces such as door handles and taps will quickly become smeared with fingerprints, so these frequent touchpoints need to be kept to a minimum. The use of partitions in place of outer doors and automatic taps instead of manual versions will reduce the fingerprint load, for example. And continuous flooring and smooth walls will be easier to keep clean than tiles. Washrooms in retail centres should also allow for a quick throughput of customers to prevent the problem of queuing. And all soap and paper dispensers should be designed to provide a long-lasting supply of product to prevent frustrating runouts.

A toilet paper dispenser such as the Tork SmartOne® is a good option here because the paper is delivered via a nozzle at the front of the unit. The tissue is clearly visible and there is no need for the visitor to reach inside the dispenser, which is fiddly and timeconsuming, while also representing a hygiene risk. This system also helps to avoid runouts because paper is delivered one sheet at a time, reducing consumption by up to 40 percent. Tork Foam Soaps also work well in a shopping centre because each long-lasting refill serves up to 1,650 visitors per cartridge to ensure that it will not run out during busy periods. And the unit requires a particularly low push-force, which makes accessing the soap both quick and easy. On the one hand, hand dryers take time to dry the hands and can cause logjams and queues, which will irritate some washroom visitors. Paper hand towels, on the other hand, can help to improve traffic flow because visitors can take out a towel and move away from the dispenser, freeing it up for the next person.

feature retail cleaning solutions A high-capacity dispenser such as the Tork PeakServe® ContinuousTM Hand Towel Dispenser is a good option because the unit caters for more than 1,000 guests between refills, 600 more than most other dispensers. It can also be topped up at any time and delivers each towel in just three seconds, reducing the user’s waiting time. Digital technology can further help to ensure that retail washroom dispensers

are kept always topped up. For example, Tork Vision Cleaning uses sensors and people-counters to monitor washroom usage and check on dispenser refill levels. This enables cleaners to check remotely via a smartphone or tablet on which washroom is likely to require servicing and when a dispenser needs to be refilled. This prevents cleaners from having to make multiple journeys to the facility to carry out random checks,

saving time and boosting productivity. Retail chiefs are working hard to inject new life into the shopping centre and tempt back the customers, and for this they should be applauded. But to be truly successful they also need to ensure that the whole facility promotes a pleasant and positive experience – and that includes the washrooms. For more information, visit: www.tork.co.za

How customer experience can guide solutions to retail cleaning complications

Never before has a customer’s shopping mall experience meant so much to the South African retail market. Crafting this experience has become a key activity for many retail marketing executives and it includes dealing with a customer’s experience and emotions. It has been well documented that emotions lie behind customer behaviour, and trying to control this behaviour is an important goal for retail businesses.

oday customers also have an immediate and clear voice that can broadcast far and wide. In fact, within seconds of receiving a negative experience, a post, including photographic evidence, can be shared across multiple social media platforms. This in turn can directly affect a customer’s opinion and even the choice of shopping mall they plan to visit in future, according to Prime Cleaning Suppliers’ Matthew Gervais.

One of the main influences on a customer’s experience is the condition of the retail environment, which is of course, the principal focus of all cleaning and hygiene services. A professional approach to determining this condition and what the customer is experiencing can start by discussing what occurs when a customer enters a shopping mall. Firstly, a customer will visually inspect the environment. Usually, they

will note the floor first and will be able to see any dirt present. This is important to note, as a customer could deliver a judgement on the state of the entire building based on this. Secondly, the customer could detect odour, which is either pleasant, unpleasant or neutral. Whether the customer is cognisant of a smell or not, it can play a role in their initial experience. This is an opportunity to offer something pleasant and start

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

feature retail cleaning solutions the customer experience off on a positive note. Dirt, odour and preconception are three of the most important elements that can affect a customer’s experience. These three elements should always be taken into consideration when creating a retail cleaning and hygiene solution as they affect decisions on the choice of cleaning products. This is because it is cleaning products that directly address the effective removal of dirt, enhancing the air and guaranteeing hygienic and genuine surface disinfection. This is where the cleaning product supplier has a major role to play, because their task is to provide the correct product to meet these needs. Prime Cleaning Suppliers’ (PCS) corporate slogan is ‘Complete Cleaning Solutions’ as their focus is on providing commercial products that are specifically suited for all retail environments and the demands of commercial facilities. PCS starts by offering direct professional consulting by trained sales staff to assess the specific requirements of the facility and provide product recommendations that directly address the facility’s cleaning needs. PCS further offers Wetrok cleaning equipment and chemicals, which are tailor made for high-traffic commercial environments. The Wetrok brand also offers the coveted Nordic Ecolabel on their Wetco range, which is a guarantee of both quality and environmentally friendly products. The company distributes a large variety of Kimberly-Clark Professional dispensing systems, which include a large range of aircare products as well as hand soaps, paper towel and toilet tissue products and a range of NRCScertified disinfectant products, which meet the need for a guaranteed hygienic environment.

For more information, visit: www.primecs.co.za

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

How retail cleaning reflects the store brand Online shopping is expected to continue to grow, even as the pandemic becomes endemic and life returns to relative normality. In fact, research reported by Shopify and Oberlo found that one-third of global consumers shop digitally today, representing a 3.1 percent year-over-year increase from 2022.

Cleanliness is key for retail store customers So, what can retailers do to drive more consumers into brick and mortar stores? How can they drive more brand loyalty? One critical focus is retail cleaning. Your store’s aesthetics and appearance help consumers experience your brand. Entryways, aisles, checkout areas and washrooms demonstrate your brand story from the time a customer visits your store to the moment they

• 88% of customers are concerned for their safety in a dirty environment • 74% of customers are willing to overlook customer service if the business is noticeably clean With intense competition to bind loyal customers to your brand and attract new customers, retailers need to tell a positive brand story by consistently maintaining a high level of clean.

Your store’s aesthetics and appearance help consumers experience your brand. Entryways, aisles, checkout areas and washrooms demonstrate your brand story from the time a customer visits your store to the moment they leave. leave. The overall cleanliness and appearance of your store, especially high traffic areas that can get dirty fast, can make or break your store’s appearance and reputation. Even prior to the pandemic that ushered in elevated expectations of clean, a Proctor & Gamble Professional survey found the vast majority of customers place a high priority on the cleanliness of stores: • 91% of customers agreed that they are more likely to have an overall negative opinion of the business if it is not clean • 95% of customers said cleanliness can elevate a good business into a great business

AMR – the new employee Another way to overcome challenges in retail is turning to autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to handle the more routine and repetitive jobs such as floor cleaning. AMRs work alongside humans, helping retailers solve key challenges and create a competitive advantage. In fact, analysis from ABI Research predicts that robotics adoption in retail will surge through 2030, growing nearly 40 percent annually. Tennant AMRs are common coworkers in many retail operations today. These robotic floor scrubbers help the industry address labour challenges, clean more efficiently and maintain

feature retail cleaning solutions

a high standard of clean that consumers expect. AMRs free up human employees to tackle other high-value, high-touch cleaning tasks so every area reflects a clean store brand. Tennant AMRs are offered in a variety of models and sizes from the T380AMR that can scrub floors in tight aisles and small spaces to the T16AMR industrial robotic floor-scrubber for larger retail areas and warehouses. Tennant AMRs can be used with detergent-free cleaning methods such as the ec-H20™ Technology that transforms tap water into a safe, effective cleaning solution. This can help retailers reduce their environmental impact while saving money on cleaning chemicals and improving safety.

AMRs are common co-workers in many retail operations today. These robotic floor scrubbers help the industry address labour challenges, clean more efficiently and maintain a high standard of clean that consumers expect. AMRs free up human employees to tackle other high-value, high-touch cleaning tasks so every area reflects a clean store brand. making it easier for operators to get a powerful level of clean. Tennant also offers larger i-mop XL® and i-mop XXL® scrubbers that provide the manoeuvrability of a mop with the cleaning performance of a walk-behind floor scrubber.

Moving towards the mechanised mop

Use cleanliness to elevate your brand

Mechanised mops have become a much better mop alternative to clean in small areas. For example, the Tennant i-mop® Lite has emerged as a more efficient, productive, sanitary and ergonomic alternative to mopping. It exceeds cleaning standards and is highly manoeuvrable in tight spaces and around obstacles. It’s also lightweight,

With the growth of online shopping cutting into in-store visits, the shopping experience is more important than ever. A dirty and unkempt store risks losing customers and potential revenue. But maintaining a clean, dry floor that is safe and attractive can be a challenge. Fortunately, Tennant can help retailers find the correct floor-cleaning process

and machinery to elevate a store’s level of cleanliness. The company supplies dependable and reliable machines, innovative features, sustainable solutions, strong delivery capabilities and a national footprint for service and support. Throughout its history, Tennant has focused on advancing the cleaning industry by aggressively pursuing new technologies and creating a culture that celebrates innovation. Today, Tennant is a global leader in designing, manufacturing and marketing solutions that help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. For more information about Tennant cleaning equipment, visit: www.goscorcleaning.co.za

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

facilities management review

The rise of flexible workspaces

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern business, the concept of a traditional workplace is undergoing a profound transformation – that’s where a flexible workspace office comes in. With the rise of flexible working arrangements, many entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses are embracing the idea of flexible office space planning as an alternative to conventional fixed office workspaces. In this article, Think FM Solutions takes a closer look at flexible offices – exploring what they are, their benefits and the importance of maintaining a clean workspace in these dynamic environments.

Definition of a flexible workspace A flexible office space offers short-term and adaptable leasing models. Typically, offices and other commercial spaces are rented with long-term leases, often from five to ten years. However, shifting attitudes towards working full time in an office have been accelerated by the pandemic and developments in technology. Now hybrid working is common and, as a result, many organisations are finding they don’t need such a permanent, or long-term, office. The nature of this flexibility also has a physical impact on the workspace. In short, differing requirements between renters and shared working areas with multiple companies often necessitate a versatile layout. Unlike traditional office setups with fixed layouts, flexible offices offer a range of spaces and amenities that can be customised according to the specific requirements of the occupants.

Flexible workspace office types Flexible office space can come in various forms, each tailored to the unique needs of businesses. Some common categories include:

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Co-working space: These are open, collaborative work areas where individuals from different companies share the same space. They are perfect for freelancers, remote workers and small start-ups. Private office: Private offices within flexible offices offer the privacy and security of a traditional office but with the added benefits of shared amenities and a collaborative environment. Managed office: A managed office space is a subtype of flexible offices that includes a range of services beyond the workspace itself, including cleaning, administrative support and utilities. Serviced office: Similar to a managed office but with less exclusivity over the areas for work, with companies often sharing access to communal spaces or other facilities.

The benefits Businesses can effortlessly scale up or down in terms of space and services as their needs change. For example, a start-up with a small team can start with a few desks in a co-working space and later transition to a private office as they grow. Flexible offices often provide cost

savings compared to traditional office setups. Businesses can avoid large upfront investments in office equipment and infrastructure, as these are typically included in the rental package. Of course, shorter lease terms also allow companies to reduce their financial commitments with a lower initial outlay. Flexible offices also promote collaboration and networking opportunities. Sharing a workspace with other professionals and businesses can lead to new partnerships, ideas and opportunities for growth. Many co-working spaces organise events and activities to encourage interactions among their members. For small businesses and start-ups, a flexible office can provide a prestigious address and access to high-quality facilities. This can enhance their professional image and credibility in the eyes of clients and partners. In a similar vein, flexible offices are often located in central areas of cities, giving businesses access to sought-after locations without the associated costs of traditional office rentals. This location flexibility can be a significant advantage for businesses aiming to attract talent or serve specific

facilities management review markets. Maintaining a clean workspace is crucial in any office environment, but this takes on added significance in flexible offices where multiple businesses share common areas.

The importance of a clean workspace in flexible offices A clean and hygienic workspace is essential for the health and well-being of all occupants. In shared spaces like kitchens, meeting rooms and washrooms, the risk of germs and bacteria spreading is higher. There are several benefits to a clean office space for employees. For starters, regular cleaning and sanitisation can boost productivity and help improve staff morale, creating a healthier environment and reducing the chances of illnesses. Clients, partners and visitors are more likely to form a positive impression when they see a clean and organised workspace. This contributes to the overall professional image of the occupants. Tenants in flexible offices expect a certain level of cleanliness and maintenance as part of their lease

agreements. Therefore, daily office cleaning can help ensure tenant satisfaction and retention. To achieve and maintain a clean and welcoming workspace in a flexible office, many businesses turn to professional cleaning companies who can create custom cleaning plans based on the specific requirements of a flexible office. This includes determining the frequency of cleaning, areas that need attention, plus any additional services like carpet cleaning, window washing and disinfection. A tidy and well-maintained office space reflects positively on the businesses operating within it. Naturally, happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases and recommend the space to others. Consistency is key to maintaining a clean workspace, therefore a comprehensive office cleaning checklist becomes imperative. Cleaning companies ensure that cleaning tasks are performed regularly and reliably, creating an environment that tenants can count on day in and day out. What’s more, flexible office operators

and tenants can save valuable time and resources by outsourcing cleaning services to professionals. This allows them to focus on their core business activities without the added responsibility of cleaning and maintenance.

Summary Flexible offices have become a popular choice for businesses seeking adaptability, cost efficiency and networking opportunities. They can take on different forms, each tailored to the specific requirements of the companies working there. This is particularly important for employees returning to the office after a long time working from home or on a hybrid basis. Maintaining a clean and well-organised workspace in these dynamic environments is essential for health, professionalism and productivity. A professional commercial cleaning company can play a vital role in enhancing the benefits of flexible offices by providing tailored cleaning solutions, ensuring consistency, as well as upholding high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

White Paper published on AI and its impact on the future of facilities services

uthored by AI thought leader Inma Martinez, the new white paper from ISS examines how AI can elevate human potential and reshape future of workspaces. AI thought leader Martinez believes the built office environment is about to enter an exponential era of AI-driven products and services that will transform the industry and provides actionable insights for deploying AI in the built office environment, elevating human potential and reshaping the future of workplaces. The white paper explores the dynamic intersection of human ingenuity and emerging technologies, including: • Energy • Building sustainability • Workplace experience • Talent attraction and retention, and • Information security. Each chapter of Rising Above the Noise: What Artificial Intelligence

Means for the Built Office Environment culminates in key takeaways, offering a strategic roadmap for intertwining AI with core operations. Martinez states: “The built office environment is about to enter an exponential era of AI-driven products and services that will transform how we address the challenges ahead. This includes in sustainability and energy management, designing responsive, adaptable and scalable integrated services, and, perhaps most critically, in enabling a decentralised data architecture that allows for further optimisations”. Martinez’s credentials include groundbreaking work with Cambridge University and Trinity College Dublin, where she pioneered the first real-time AI recommendation system for the mobile internet. Recognised worldwide for her expertise, she currently serves as Chair of the Multi-stakeholder Expert Group and Co-Chair of the Steering

Committee at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), a G7 and G20 global agency. Leanne Lynch, CIO of ISS UK & Ireland states, “This exploration of AI aligns with our ambition to harmonise human ingenuity with technological advancements, especially within sectors like food and energy. It’s an exciting journey that promises enhanced operational efficacy and a greater impact on the communities and clients we serve.” ISS is a leading workplace experience and facility management company. In partnership with customers, ISS drives the engagement and well-being of people, minimises the impact on the environment, and protects and maintains property. ISS brings all of this to life through a unique combination of data, insight and service excellence at factories, airports, hospitals and other locations across the globe. View the white paper at: https://www.uk.issworld.com/ai

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

textile care review

Making laundry operations more sustainable by investing in green Furthermore, the energy used to heat the water and operate the machines, as well as the chemicals used in detergents, can have a significant environmental impact.

Green investments in laundry operations

his year’s World Tourism Day’s theme ‘Tourism and Green Investments’ invited us to reflect on our environmental footprint in every aspect of the tourism industry. A key area often overlooked in this context is laundry operations, which are integral to hotels, restaurants and other tourismrelated establishments. As we strive for a greener future, it’s time to analyse and improve the sustainability of these operations, according to Diversey, which offers efficient and sustainable fabric care solutions to businesses all over the world.

Impact of laundry operations on the environment Laundry operations, especially in the hospitality industry, consume large amounts of water, energy and chemicals, in fact the United Nations World Water Assessment Program estimates that on average, a single hotel room can consume 100 to 200 litres of water per day, just for laundry.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

Investing in sustainable laundry practices can not only reduce environmental impact but also lead to significant cost savings. Let’s explore some ways to make laundry operations more sustainable. A good place to start is to check that tasks are completed with the right processes, products and equipment. This will help ensure optimum efficiency and reduce the need for repeat washing, which avoids additional water heating and electrical equipment running costs let alone savings in time and product consumption. Another simple task is to maintain equipment correctly so that it is reliable and energy efficient. It is important to follow manufacturers’ guidelines for daily inspections and arrange servicing at the correct intervals. Daily tasks might include, for example, checking and cleaning a machine’s pumps and filters to remove blockages that cause inefficiency. Washing machines used in hard water areas can be prone to limescale. This can accumulate and restrict the passage of water and impact on the equipment’s reliability and limit the efficiency of the heating element. More energy will be required to heat the same amount of water. In fact, each millimetre of scale inside the heating element will add around eight to ten per cent on energy costs for a typical commercial machine. Limescale can also interfere with internal sensors that manage the temperature and the flow of water and cleaning products, leading to further inefficiencies and wastage.

Regular descaling with a specialist product or switching to formulations that prevent limescale will help prevent this issue. Another simple way to reduce energy costs is to switch to products that are effective at lower temperatures. Washing at 40°C significantly reduces energy costs by up to a third compared to washing at 60°C or above. However, healthcare guidance does stipulate that thermal disinfection is the preferred choice for infected linen. Alternative low temperature formulations are available for laundry and will deliver payback from day one. Many can be swapped into existing processes without significant retraining or other changes. Thus far these considerations have highlighted the energy-saving benefits of using the correct equipment, products and processes. But optimised processes at lower temperatures can also save another valuable resource: water. The first saving is made by avoiding the need to wash items a second time. The second saving is made by reducing the number of required rinses – the standard on many commercial machines is three rinse cycles. If we consider on average for each kilogram of linen three to four litres of water is required to remove residual soiling and chemicals from the fabric, removing a single rinse will save 33 percent of the water being used and is achievable using specific product neutralisers. Time savings are also achieved by the removal of one or two rinse cycles. Product formulations are another sustainability consideration. Traditional laundry products have been developed over decades to deliver highly effective, economical and consistent results. But laundry operators are increasingly seeking novel formulations with additional sustainability benefits. This includes, for example, using ingredients from renewable resources.

textile care review Switching to ultra concentrates from traditional liquid formulations can reduce the volume needed to support a laundry. This leads to smaller pack sizes or fewer deliveries, which reduces the number of transport movements and lower CO2 emissions as well as minimising storage and handling burdens across the supply chain, all good sustainability benefits. Modern packaging also uses fewer raw materials such as plastics and cardboard. Sustainability is further enhanced when these materials are made wholly or partially from recycled sources. Packaging is also designed to be easier to sort and recycle after use. All of this helps to promote a circular lifecycle for packaging, which

contributes to the sustainability of laundry products. Larger businesses running one or more commercial machines and dealing with higher volumes of laundry can often achieve significant sustainability benefits by tapping into the capabilities of the latest smart technologies and applications. These systems work in conjunction with washing machines and dosing equipment to help on-premises laundry operators reduce costs, minimise rewashes, and enhance results by providing an advanced set of remote real-time management and diagnostic tools over the internet. Operators can respond proactively to deal with issues before they

impact on operations and modify settings to optimise water and energy consumption and the quality of results. Many of the changes outlined above can be implemented quickly and easily with little or no additional upfront investment. When more significant change is identified it becomes much easier to justify an investment when energy prices rise because savings offset the costs much more quickly. Reputable suppliers can advise on the most energy-efficient combination of their products for specific applications. They will support their claims with proper documentation and may have tools and calculators to help assess savings.

It involves a multitude of aspects such as effective sorting, correct washing procedures, optimal use of resources, effective inventory management, proper maintenance of laundry machinery and proficient scheduling of tasks. When managed efficiently, laundry operations can become a cost-effective function, reducing waste, saving time and contributing to a hotel’s bottom line.

3. Inventory management: Efficient tracking of linen use, lifecycle and loss can help prevent overstocking or shortages and ensure a smooth supply of linens to various departments. 4. Sustainability practices: Incorporating eco-friendly practices in laundry operations can lead to resource conservation and cost reduction and enhance the hotel’s reputation.

Strategies for efficiency

Conclusion

1. Technological integration: Implementing the latest laundry technologies can increase the efficiency of operations, reduce energy consumption and improve the quality of laundering. 2. Training and development: Continual training of laundry staff ensures they are up to date with best practices and can operate laundry machinery effectively and safely.

Efficient laundry management, while often overlooked, is a key pillar in providing a superior guest experience. By investing in proper procedures, technology and training, a hotel can enhance its operations and leave a lasting positive impression on its guests. Thus, focusing on laundry efficiency is not just about clean linens; it’s about the complete guest experience.

Efficient laundry management key to superior guest experience

n the hospitality industry, providing a superior guest experience is paramount. One element often overlooked in this equation is the role of efficient laundry management. Though behind the scenes, the process of laundering linens and textiles significantly contributes to a guest’s overall perception of a hotel, according to laundry industry professional Manny Go.

Importance of laundry management Guests appreciate clean, fresh-smelling and well-maintained linens. It gives them confidence in the hotel’s hygiene standards and increases their overall satisfaction. Appropriately laundered and promptly delivered linens contribute to the smooth functioning of various departments, from housekeeping to dining, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience.

Efficiency factor Efficient laundry management goes beyond the washing process.

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

people and events Adored TikTok housekeeper revels in offering cleaning tips

he left her job as a salesperson for a furniture shop to clean homes – now Mbali Nhlapo, with a passion for cleaning, has become her own boss and a TikTok star to boot. Mbali, from Soweto in Johannesburg, is the owner of the cleaning company Sisters @ Work and has made a name for herself on the social-media platform where she shares cleaning hacks with her over 550,000 followers.

This is her story: I became a housekeeper because I love to clean. I have a passion for polished things and when I enter a clean home I get excited and happy. That’s how my cleaning company, Sisters @ Work, was born. As my business grew, I started researching cleaning tips and tricks, which I initially shared with the housekeepers in my circle but then my son, Philasande (14), suggested I share my knowledge on social media. At first, I didn’t give it much thought because I was under the impression TikTok was just for dancing and gyrating; however, when I did, some of my videos went viral, opening many other doors. I’ve since featured as a specialist on a new Moja Love reality show called Yekela, and I have penned a self-help cleaning book titled I am Mbali Nhlapo and I am a Housekeeper. As much as I love my job, it isn’t always easy. It comes with its fair share of challenges, like high staff turnover

because people look for employment without understanding the industry. For instance, your home, my home and the neighbour’s home are not the same. People want their homes to be cleaned in a specific manner and when you are a housekeeper you need to take instructions. You also need to be strong-minded because you can find some pretty repulsive situations on the job. I’m proud that my passion has seen me become the CEO of my business. I employ both men and women as cleaners, in Johannesburg and KwaZulu-Natal, and I have big plans to grow my company. One of the secrets to my success is vetting and knowing all my workers. The trust and rapport I have built with them in the past few years hasn’t just helped me, it has assisted many other families. Watch Mbali Nhlapo @mbalinlapho7

NCCA charity golf day

he Gauteng branch of the National Contract Cleaners Association (NCCA) held its annual charity golf day on Friday 6 September 2023 at the Randpark Golf Club in Johannesburg, this year to raise funds for the Kliptown Youth Program. NCCA golfers lit up the Bushwillow course on the day donning their luminous pink golf shirts. The event was well attended and contributions by several sponsors made the prizegiving ceremony a huge success. The prizes were presented to the golfers by the branch treasurer Patrick Nndwamato. A sports paraphernalia auction formed part of the proceedings.

Women’s Day celebrated with artistic unmasking event

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

people and events PBEH Business Breakfast

PBEH Chairman Arthur Bath

Dr Wynand Goosen

he Professional Body for Environmental Hygiene (PBEH) organised a business breakfast held at the Protea Hotel Midrand on 3 November 2023. Professional cleaning sector delegates attended the presentation by keynote speaker Dr Wynand Goosen titled ‘The Power of Designations in Shaping the Cleaning Industry’. The enlightening presentation offered insight on the value and significance of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and occupational qualifications. Professional designations developed and issued by the PBEH act as a visible testament to an individual’s commitment to professionalism in the industry. It serves as a clear signal to both employers and clients that the holder has not only acquired the

necessary qualifications but has also undergone rigorous assessments to meet and maintain industry standards. Conversely, educational qualifications in the form of occupational awards provide a more comprehensive foundation. As accredited qualifications offered by reputable providers and approved by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), they offer a structured educational path with six levels, ensuring individuals are well equipped with the skills needed for success in various aspects of the cleaning industry. Unlike professional designations, educational qualifications do not expire, providing a timeless testament to an individual’s commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. For those navigating career paths

within the cleaning industry, a strategic approach is essential. Crafting a vision board, capitalising on professionalism, and creating a personalised development plan (PDP) are vital steps. A skills repository aids in identifying strengths and areas for improvement, while a well-thought-out game plan sets the trajectory for achieving career goals. The integration of qualifications and professional designations not only opens doors to opportunities but also serves as a roadmap for continuous growth and success in the vital professional cleaning sector. Dr Goosen is the CEO of Infomage Rims group, he constantly launches various strategic initiatives. As a strategist & human capital management expert, he has pioneered various high-level programmes, strategies and systems.

Save the date: 9–10 April 2024, Prague, Czech Republic Cleaning Products Europe brings together leading manufacturers within the household and cleaning products market to discuss challenges and opportunities from raw material to product shelf. The 2024 conference will highlight current and future household market trends, regulatory updates and their effects on the industry, consumer demand for sustainability and breakthrough R&D shaping new product innovation. It is also a chance to bring the industry up to speed with the latest technologies for smoother manufacturing processes. Whether you are manufacturing cleaning products, supplying speciality chemicals/ingredients, a brand owner, retailer or solution provider, Cleaning Products Europe is an event the industry cannot afford to miss. African Cleaning Review readers qualify for discounted delegate rates. For more information, visit: www.cleaningproductsconference.com/ cleaning-products-europe

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

new products Office Hygiene PackageTM improves workplace satisfaction

ew from Essity is the Tork Office Hygiene PackageTM designed to help businesses improve staff satisfaction in the workplace. The package incorporates smart hygiene solutions, a new air freshener and the Office Complaints Minimiser™, which allows facility managers to test their hygiene and cleaning knowledge against industry data. Gripes about toilets account for more than 45 percent of officebuilding complaints, according to a recent Statista study. A second survey carried out in 2022 revealed that 86 percent of office employees regard cleanliness as the most important aspect of a good working environment, while 85 percent believe the state of the washrooms reflects the cleanliness of the building overall. “If washrooms are run well and efficiently, cleaning teams have more time to clean the rest of the facility,” says Anna Königson Koopmans, marketing director commercial for Essity’s professional hygiene business. “And our research shows that better cleaning quality leads to better employee workplace satisfaction.” The Office Complaints Minimiser™ is a gamified digital challenge aimed at improving facility managers’ knowledge about hygiene and cleaning solutions in a bid to reduce complaints and save time. Also incorporated in the Tork Office Hygiene Package is Tork Vision Cleaning, which is designed to take the guesswork out of the cleaning operation. Using real-time data from people-

counters and connected dispensers, Tork Vision Cleaning indicates to facility managers and cleaning staff those situations where extra cleaning might be required and where dispenser refilling is needed. This reduces the number of dispenser checks required by up to 91 percent while also ensuring that all dispensers are kept topped up 99 percent of the time. And helping to keep the office environment smelling fresh is the new Tork Constant Air Freshener, a propellant-free aircare system that neutralises odours continuously and evenly. The dispenser can be mounted at a reachable height for cleaners, unlike many systems that need to be placed high up on the wall to be effective. This means refills can be easily integrated into normal cleaning routines, while the product is third-party certified as easy to use for quicker refilling. For more information, visit: www.tork.co.uk/officehygiene

The essence of sustainable cleaning

ntroducing the FIMAP EMx scrubber dryer featuring technology that enables cleaning without the use of chemical detergents. The exclusive AQUAE® technology activates the chlorine molecules naturally present in normal softened tap water to produce an effective cleaning and sanitising solution. The hypochlorous acid solution obtained is suitable for daily and maintenance floor cleaning for 90 percent of applications. In addition, the solution can be used elsewhere to reduce bacterial loads when cleaning other surfaces, in the place of detergents. Furthermore, the EMx machine’s air filtration is said to guarantee the return of clean air, even from fine dust, as the air is filtered through a HEPA filter, capable of retaining dust particles down to 0.3 μm. This new generation floor-cleaning

African Cleaning Review November/December 2023

machine also features Li-ion battery technology that results in greater machine availability and flexibility in cleaning operations. Li-ion batteries are more efficient than traditional batteries in that they require less energy to charge and have a much longer life cycle. The ECO mode is a quiet work configuration with low consumption for frequent or maintenance cleaning. For instance, when enhanced scrubbing power is not required, it guarantees sustainable operations by reducing the use of water, detergent and energy to ensure superior cleaning results with limited resources. FIMAP’s EMx scrubbing machine is highly versatile due to its compact dimensions, robust design and technology, designed to save resources and reduce the environmental impact of cleaning operations.

The FIMAP EMx range of scrubber dryers is distributed by Cleaning World; for more information, visit: www.cleaningworld.co.za

a p Com OT res ple L en te IST ce the E in fo D Bu rm Y ye to ET r’s se ? Gu cu ide re 20 24

10 MAIN ENTRIES ONLY r Absorbents – Oil/Chemicals r Access Equipment/Ladders r Air Cleaning Equipment/Air Duct Cleaning/Indoor Air Quality Systems r Air Filters/Air Purifiers r Air Fresheners r Anti-Stain Treatments r Baby Changing Stations r Bactericides r Barrier Creams & Cleaners r Biological & Enzyme Products r Bird Repellent r Bleaches r Buckets/Wringers r Carpet Cleaners r Carpet Cleaning Systems r Carpet Detergents r Car Valet Products/Services r Car/Truck Wash Systems/Services r Catering Equipment Cleaning r Catering Hygiene Products r Ceiling & Wall Cleaning Equipment r Chemical Dilution & Dispensing Systems r Chewing Gum Removal r Cleaning Chemicals/Agents & Consumables r Cleaning Equipment/Cleaning Equipment Hire r Cloths & Dusters r Compactors/Compactor Bags & Tubing r Computer & Cleanroom Cleaning r Curtain Cleaning r Customised Cleaning Solutions r Descalers & Degreasers r Detergents r Dishwashers r Dishwasher Dispensing Equipment r Disinfectants & Sanitisers r Disinfection/Decontamination/Fogging/ Sanitisation Services r Dispensers/Dispensing Products r Dosing Equipment r Drain & Grease-Trap Maintenance r Drain Cleaning Chemicals r Drain Cleaning Equipment r Dryers – Tumble/Clothes r Duct & Gutter Cleaning r Dust Control &/or Logo Mats r Dust/Litter Bins r Dustpans, Dusters & Brushes r Escalator Cleaners r Fabric Softeners r Facial Tissue r Facilities Management r Floor Pads r Floor Polishers r Floor Scarifiers r Fragrance Units r Glass Cleaning Chemicals r Glass & Aluminium Restoration r Gloves – Disposable/ Plastic/Rubber/Latex r Graffiti Removal Products r Green Cleaning/Products r Guest Amenities/Hospitality/Toiletries r HACCP Cleaning Specialists r Hand Cleansers & Protectors r Hand Dryers (Air) r Hard Floor Treatments r Hazard Material – Disposal/Control/ Emergency Spill Response/Clean-up r High-Pressure Cleaners r Housekeeping – Carts r Hygiene &/or Cleaning Consultants r Hygiene Audits r Hygiene Brushware & Consumables r Hygiene Services r Industrial Chemicals r Industrial Cleaning Systems/Solutions r Industrial Laundry Equipment/Dispensers r Insect Killing & Pest Control Equipment/Repellent r Irons – Steam/Automatic

r Laundry Bags/Bins r Laundry Design & Layout Consultants r Laundry & Dry Clean Consumables r Laundry &/or Dry Cleaning Services r Laundry Suppliers r Liners – Dustbins r Lubricants r Matting r Microbiological Testing r Microfibre Products r Mopping & Flat Mopping Systems r Mops – Dish/Floor r Nappy & Incontinence Waste Disposal r Odour Control Services/Management r On-Premise Laundry Systems r Paper, Serviettes & Wipes (Disposable) r Paper Towel Dispensers r Parts & Accessories – Floorcare & Laundry Equipment r Pest Control Services r Pesticides r Polishes r Presses – Trousers/Coats r Protective Clothing/Workwear r Recycling Equipment r Refuse Disposal Equipment, Vehicles & Systems r Road Sweepers/Vacuum Trucks r Robotics r Sanitary Bins r Sanitary Bin Services r Sanitary Disposal r Scourers – Floor r Scrubbers/Scrubber Driers/Sweepers r Single Disc Floor-Maintenance Machines r Soaps & Soap Dispensers r Solvents & Strippers r Specialised Cleaning Services r Speciality Own-Label Products r Spray Extraction Cleaners r Squeegees, Brooms & Brushes r Steamers – Clothing r Steam Cleaners r Sterilisers r Surface Cleaning Pads & Cloths r Sweepers (Manual/Ride-On) r Telephone Cleaning r Terrazzo Floor Cleaning r Textile Testing r Time, Attendance and People Management Solutions & Software r Toilet Cleaners r Toilet Seat Sanitisers r Toilet Tissue r Towels/Disposable Towels r Training & Education – Development/ Recruitment/HACCP r Training Materials, Books, Software, Reports, Videos r Trolley Systems r Upholstery Cleaning r Urinal Dosing Systems r Urinal Gel Block/Pads r Vacuum Cleaners – Wet/Dry r Ventilators & Ventilation Systems, Kitchen Extraction Systems – Cleaning r Washing Machines r Washroom Accessories & Consumables r Waste Disposal Systems r Waste Environmental Management r Water Treatment Systems r Window Cleaning r Window Cleaning Equipment r Woven & Non-Woven Wipes r Other (Please specify): _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________

Buyer’s Guide

2024

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African Cleaning Review NovDec '23

Articles inside

Unilever Professional's Pledge to a Clean Future

PBEH Business Breakfast

Can cleaning staff make or break your company's reputation?

Bidvest acquisition set to double its FM footprint Down under

Freudenberg Home and Cleaning Solutions has acquired Vermop

Kimberly-Clark Professional launches wind farm

Efficient laundry management key to superior guest experience

White Paper published on AI and its impact on the future of facilities services

How retail cleaning reflects the store brand

Returned from Paris? Did you bring back an unwelcome guest?

Solutions to ease the hotel cleaning burden