The Future of Cleaning in Facilities Management: People, Technology and Sustainability

We spoke to Lisa Holmes about the facilities management (FM) role within the cleaning industry, and there is so much to unpack. Cadaema calls on Lisa when her considerable skills and knowledge are needed for a project, ensuring organisations we work with benefit from her expertise and experience.

The cleaning and FM sector is undergoing significant change. Mergers, acquisitions and new technologies are reshaping the industry. At the same time, frontline staff remain essential, and sustainability targets are driving innovation. From the role of robotics to the importance of training, these shifts create both opportunities and risks for organisations.

Lisa is a Chartered Environmental Cleaner and a respected voice in the FM and cleaning sector. With decades of hands-on experience, she runs Sandon Solutions, supporting organisations via consultancy through acquisitions and change management..

Here are the key points she’s identified for us that companies need to keep in mind for their cleaning contracts.

Mergers and Acquisitions in FM

The sector has seen a wave of acquisitions, often creating disjointed systems (operations, finance, HR, payroll, etc) that don’t integrate well. If communication about strategic direction and any changes is poor, clients and staff can be left confused about what’s happened and what the future holds, so clear systems and processes need to be put in place, or organisations risk losing staff and clients.

The Evolution of Cleaning Roles

Despite technological advances, much of cleaning is still carried out by part-time staff using vacuum cleaners and cloths, just as it was decades ago.

Whilst robotics (cobotics) and AI are entering the industry, they should supplement rather than replace human cleaners: machines can handle main areas but not tasks like moving chairs, topping up toilet rolls or tackling stubborn stains.

Sustainability Pressures

Legislation is driving reductions in carbon footprints, not just offsetting, so demand for eco-friendly cleaning solutions is on the rise.

Innovations such as biodegradable chemicals and recycled packaging are becoming mainstream, but hard water and site-specific realities complicate product effectiveness.  Investment to create tangible benefits in this area is the absolute ‘must have’ next step for the industry.

Training and Standards

Training is often overlooked or left to overstretched remote managers, but proper training, supported by organisations such as the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc), is essential to ensure quality, safety and productivity as well as effective engagement with front line colleagues. Without consistent standards, poor habits creep in, leading to cross-contamination, safety risks and dissatisfied clients.

Perception of Cleaning Staff

During the pandemic, cleaners were recognised as frontline workers, but attitudes have since slipped back, but clean, hygienic environments allow people to thrive, whether in schools, offices or healthcare settings. Respect and investment in cleaning staff must continue if organisations want high standards and staff retention.

The cleaning industry is at a crossroads. Technology and sustainability will drive innovation, but people remain central. Success lies in combining smart systems, strong communication and well-trained teams with eco-friendly practices. In the next five to ten years, those who embrace this balance will certainly lead the way.