Industrial and commercial cleaning industries can achieve better results using advanced technology and modern equipment designs, and by monitoring consumer behaviour, says contract cleaning and supplies company Easy Chem.

Easy Chem member Bernard Fourie states that industrial cleaning technology has evolved rapidly in the last few years, with clients demanding modern technology to simplify hygiene processes.

“For all types of industrial cleaning, there is an opportunity to use the latest technology and design, enabling consumer-savvy businesses to have an advantage over its competition,” he says.

Fourie adds that current innovations, such as timed and automated air freshening, microbial cleaning and software that dispenses products, assist in reducing waste and eliminates the necessity of weekend labour.

He explains that hygiene, sanitary-product dispensers and the aesthetics of corporate and retail washrooms are currently in major demand. “There is a lot of emphasis being put on personal hygiene products, with clients expecting sanitisers and antibacterial soaps to form the basic range of utilities offered by service providers.”

Fourie adds that specific toilet-seat cleaners, which eliminate and kill bacteria, are some of the specialised sanitary products available to consumers. “Top of the popularity list is urinal automatic sanitisers, which clean uric scale build-up and reduce plumbing blockages. In this game, innovation and up-to-date solutions are what make you truly competitive.”

He points out that successful industry role- players constantly strive for innovation, divers-ification, value-added services and products, as well as to build relationships with suppliers and customers. To achieve this goal, Fourie suggests offering clients the best value possible and extra services, and employing staff who are proud of the business and who want to excel.

“Talking regularly to suppliers and clients and ensuring that you are available to speak to them, regardless of their having compliments or complaints, also builds successful business relationships,” he advises.

Success in the industrial cleaning industry stems from an ability to offer clients not only a cleaning service but also the chemicals, equip-ment and staff nationwide, Fourie continues.

“Aligning with a supplier that offers staff, equipment and chemicals under one roof eliminates the headache of coordinating industrial cleaning for the client. This has been one of the biggest keys to our company’s success over the last 22 years.”

Fourie also notes that commercial cleaning suppliers lose business, owing to a lack of performance and personal service. “An industrial cleaning supplier that is willing to appropriately skill employees and consistently reflect professionalism is set to succeed in this burgeoning industry.”