Yvonne Taylor, Head of Cleaning & Support Services for Compass One, gives her predictions for some of the key contract cleaning trends we are likely to see over the next 12 months.
Strengthened regulatory frameworks
The landscape of hygiene assurance will be shaped by tougher rules on chemicals, waste and packaging. New classification, labelling and packaging (CLP) regulations will come into effect in August 2026, signalling a clear move towards safer and more open cleaning practices, while stricter rules for sorting and recycling waste highlight the need for responsible disposal.
We’ve reviewed and updated our processes to comply with new CLP regulations. We work with our procurement specialists on an ongoing basis to select safer, more environmentally responsible products that meet or exceed the latest standards, as well as collaborating on clearer labelling to promote safety and transparency. Our teams are trained in all aspects of their role, including the safe handling, use and storage of all chemicals and equipment. Training is immediately updated to reflect regulatory changes.
Technological innovation and automation
Technology will continue to change the way cleaning is delivered and managed. Advanced cleaning cobots are increasingly supporting additional tasks like spillage detection, making hygiene services more thorough. AI and sensors give access to real-time data, enabling cleaners to plan their work and focus where they’re needed. Data-led approaches will increasingly ensure high standards.
We’re already using a variety of automated tools. They deliver multiple benefits for colleagues, clients and end users, including ease of use, safety, quality, efficiency and sustainability. Technology is complementing the crucial work of our people, freeing them to focus on more intricate tasks. We’ll continue to embrace technologies that have a meaningful impact on our stakeholders.
Ensuring operational resilience for clients
Clients need their facilities to be available and usable 24/7, supporting flexible working. Investment in smart technologies supports precise planning, real-time adjustments and robust resilience reporting. This will continue to shift cleaning from a routine, reactive discipline to a dynamic, proactive one that identifies issues and risks, enabling a rapid response. Technology coupled with skilled, empowered FM professionals will ensure that an organisation’s facilities are clean, safe and comfortable at all times.
We continue to invest in technologies, equipment and processes that support operational resilience for our clients. This ranges from using data to identify and maintain high-use areas to responding quickly to urgent, unplanned requirements. Our teams collaborate with clients and building users to deliver what they need.
Increased profile and visibility of the service
In 2026, the physical office must continue to ‘earn the commute’, with workplaces as destinations that entice employees to attend. Facilities must be safe and comfortable in order for staff to feel confident in them. Cleaning needs to be visible, happening throughout the day rather than out of hours, meaning cleaners are increasingly viewed as an important part of the workforce.
Across our business, we’ve invested in the latest technology that delivers high-quality cleaning without disruption, from cobots to low-noise machines and chemical-free cleaning systems. This enables our cleaning teams to their complete tasks as required throughout the day, with minimal impact on building occupants. As a service-led organisation, our frontline teams are experienced in creating positive interactions with building occupants.
Evolution of the modern cleaning professional from operative to specialist
Many repetitive, physically demanding cleaning tasks, such as floor scrubbing and vacuuming, are being streamlined by technology, allowing colleagues to devote more attention to skilled, value-adding aspects of their work. This move is enabling cleaning professionals to gain new competencies and develop a diverse blend of technical, analytical and hospitality-focused skills.
We’re passionate about positioning cleaning and facilities management as exciting career options. We provide structured development pathways, encourage our people to pursue recognised training and certifications, and equip them to move into supervisory or management positions or specialist fields of expertise. We have multiple examples across our business of people who’ve built successful, fulfilling careers in FM and this is something we’ll continue to champion.
