Page 24 - Clean India Journal - Sept 2023 Digital Edition

Cover Story

The market outlook of mid-tier players

As mergers and acquisitions consolidate the positions of FM

industry giants, how are the smaller players faring? Here is how.

Client segments Equipment needed Li Ions Elektrik Solutions Pvt Ltd
One client segment whose Clients have become very shared a list of equipment clients
ask for: “Different types of brooms/
demand for services from the conscious about the materials mops, and regular machines
organised sector has dramatically used for FM. Green, environment- like vacuum cleaners, sweepers,
increased is residential real estate. friendly and neutral chemicals scrubbers and pressure jets are
The ad-hoc cleaning done by – which do not cause harm to requested. Regular floor cleaning
untrained personnel has been ditched surfaces and groundwater, and can detergent, degreaser, hand wash,
in favour of professionals who be gentle but effective in cleaning – toilet bowl cleaners, glass cleaner,
know what they are doing. Apart are the preferred choice.
from housekeeping, security and air freshener and carpet shampoo
maintenance services also ensure “Since cost is a major criteria for are in demand.”
that residents, tenants and visitors equipment selection and adds to
feel safe and secure at all times. capital expenses, procuring India- Business growth
The development of gated made products instead of imported With the entry of multiple new
communities and townships to products is a new trend that the players in the organised FM space,
appeal to various consumers market is witnessing”, said Vivek competition has been intense.
has led to a demand for facility Sanglodkar, Asst VP, Property Based on the balance sheets of the
management services to manage Management Solutions Pvt Ltd. past two years, Sanglodkar expects
common areas, security, “Eco-friendly, pocket-friendly a steady growth of around 5-8%
landscaping and utilities. and easy to operate are the boxes in the upcoming two-three years.
Other clients who are everyone wishes to tick.” Vijayakumar is even more optimistic,
approaching smaller players include Vijayakumar, General Manager, with a forecast of 10-20%.
smaller industries, community
centers and malls.

Services in demand
The common services in demand
by the above client groups include
housekeeping, technical services,
utilities maintenance, security,
landscaping, pest control and
facade cleaning in case of high-rise
or glass-fronted structures. Food
services were a major source of
business before the pandemic; with
the hybrid work culture in place,
clients may now be turning to larger
service providers who offer more
flexible, niche food services.
The specialised requirements
from the residential segment
include cleaning of basements,
parking areas and play areas and
underground/overhead water tank
cleaning. CIJ

SEPTEMBER 2023•Clean India Journal
24 www.cleanindiajournal.com