The commercial cleaning industry in New Zealand has experienced significant shifts in recent years, influenced by a combination of technological advancements, evolving customer demands, and the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic[1].
This white paper examines the key trends shaping the industry, providing a data-driven analysis of the current market landscape and offering insights into the future trajectory of the sector.
What are the trends in commercial cleaning?
The commercial cleaning industry in 2024 is focussing on technology, automation, and specialised services to improve efficiency and sustainability. Cleaning robots, e-water technology, and building information modeling are becoming more popular to streamline operations and reduce costs.
Market Overview
The commercial cleaning services market in New Zealand has demonstrated resilience, with an average industry growth of 4.9% from 2015 to 2020, despite flat growth in 2017 and 2018[2].
The market currently stands at approximately $2 billion, encompassing 5,391 businesses and employing 26,500 individuals[2].
This growth is primarily driven by increased demand from government agencies, commercial businesses, institutions, and households[2].
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a transformative effect on the industry. Initially, the sector experienced a decline in demand as businesses reduced or cancelled cleaning services during lockdowns[3].
However, the pandemic also heightened awareness of hygiene and cleanliness, leading to a surge in demand for cleaning services, particularly those involving disinfection and deep-cleaning[3].
This shift is expected to have a lasting impact, permanently altering the demand landscape[3].
Technological Advancements
The integration of technology has emerged as a significant trend in commercial cleaning. The adoption of robotic vacuum cleaners, smart sensors, and cloud-based management systems has enhanced operational efficiency and effectiveness[4].
These technological innovations enable more tailored and efficient cleaning services, catering to the specific needs of businesses[4].
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices
The commercial cleaning industry has witnessed a notable shift towards sustainability. Many companies are now embracing biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning products and adopting energy-efficient equipment[5].
This trend aligns with New Zealand’s broader environmental goals and is driven by increasing consumer demand for green practices[5].
Customization and Flexibility
Businesses are increasingly seeking customized cleaning solutions that cater to their specific requirements.
In response, cleaning companies are offering customizable packages that include a mix of regular cleaning, deep cleaning, and specialized services[6]. This flexibility allows businesses to select services that align with their budgets and needs[6].
Outsourcing
Outsourcing cleaning services has gained popularity as businesses aim to streamline operations and reduce costs.
This trend has contributed to the growth of professional cleaning companies that specialize in providing comprehensive services to various industries[7].
Enhanced Focus on Hygiene
The pandemic has brought a heightened focus on hygiene, with commercial cleaning companies implementing more stringent cleaning protocols.
This includes frequent disinfection and the use of hospital-grade cleaning agents, creating safer environments for both employees and customers[8].
Remote Monitoring and Communication
The use of remote monitoring systems has become more prevalent, facilitating better communication between cleaning companies and their clients.
These systems help track cleaning schedules, provide feedback, and address concerns promptly, fostering trust and ensuring alignment with client expectations[9].
Training and Skill Development
As cleaning techniques and equipment continue to evolve, there is a growing need for skilled professionals.
Many companies are investing in continuous training to ensure their staff are proficient in the latest practices, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of services provided[10].
The commercial cleaning industry in New Zealand is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, a shift towards sustainability, and changes in consumer behavior influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic[11].
These trends are reshaping the future of the industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and innovation in meeting the evolving needs of clients[12].
As the market continues to grow and evolve, commercial cleaning companies that embrace these trends and prioritize customization, hygiene, and sustainability will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic landscape.
References
- https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU2103/S00030/commercial-cleaning-services-market-in-new-zealand-and-australia-covid-19s-effects.htm
- https://www.ibisworld.com/nz/industry/commercial-cleaning-services/574/
- https://crewcare.co.nz/blog/how-covid-changed-commercial-cleaning/
- https://crewcare.co.nz/blog/technology-cleaning-company-growth/
- https://crestclean.co.nz/compliances/environmental/
- https://legalvision.co.nz/commercial-contracts/contracts-cleaning-business-new-zealand/
- https://www.amcclean.co.nz/news/
- https://crewcare.co.nz/blog/commercial-cleaning-trends-2024/
- https://crewcare.co.nz/blog/commercial-cleaning-contract-market-trends/
- https://crestclean.co.nz/compliances/
- https://kpmg.com/nz/en/home/insights/2020/03/business-implications-of-covid-19-coronavirus/industry-implications.html
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/evolving-landscape-changes-commercial-cleaning-sector-sarah-hillier
