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India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?
Industry 12 min read

India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?


India’s infrastructure-led growth is creating a ripple effect that is steadily reshaping the cleaning ecosystem. While the Union Budget stops short of direct policy triggers, the scale of new assets — from airports to industrial hubs — is set to drive long-term demand for maintenance, mechanisation and automation. The opportunity is clear but gradual, shaped by cost, skills and adoption realities. Clean India Journal’s Manka Behl spoke to industry experts on how the sector is evolving alongside this shift.

The country’s Union Budget, presented earlier in the year by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, doubles down on a familiar ambition — build bigger, build faster, and build across sectors. From high-speed rail corridors and logistics networks to industrial clusters and urban expansion — the blueprint for growth is firmly anchored in infrastructure.

But as cranes rise and concrete spreads, a quieter, less visible layer of this growth story is beginning to come into focus: What happens after the build is complete?

For India’s cleaning ecosystem, the Budget does not offer direct policy triggers. Yet it sets in motion a chain reaction. Every airport terminal, warehouse, hospital, metro station or industrial hub being planned today becomes, eventually, a space that must be cleaned, maintained and managed — not occasionally, but continuously.

The result is a sector that sits just outside the spotlight of policy, but increasingly at the centre of execution.

Industry voices suggest that the opportunity is real, expanding and inevitable — but also gradual, uneven and shaped by on-ground realities of cost, scale, skills and adoption.

Think Upkeep

As infrastructure creation accelerates, a key theme emerging from the industry is the need to align construction with long-term upkeep.

“India’s strong push toward infrastructure creation through record capital expenditure is undoubtedly a positive step for economic growth. However, while we are building world-class transport networks, logistics hubs, airports, industrial parks, and urban infrastructure at an unprecedented pace, the conversation around long-term maintenance of hygiene and cleanliness at these locations is still evolving,” says Vedant Matta, Director-Sales of Charnock Equipments Pvt Ltd.

Vedant points out that globally, infrastructure planning integrates mechanised cleaning, facility management and predictive maintenance at the design stage. “In India, however, maintenance technologies are often introduced only after the asset becomes operational,” he says.

This, he notes, can lead to inefficiencies, higher costs and faster deterioration of public infrastructure. “As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset. This will not only extend the lifespan of assets but also ensure hygiene, safety, and sustainability in high-footfall environments such as airports, metro stations, hospitals, and public buildings,” adds Vedant.

“As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset.”
— Vedant Matta

According to Sahil Jain, Managing Director of Columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt Ltd, the cleaning industry will not see an immediate spike, with most benefits expected to accrue over the long term. “The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment,” says Jain.

In the near term, increased public capital expenditure could provide indirect support. “When they increase the public capital expenditure, it basically also acts as an impetus to the private sector infrastructure development,” adds Sahil.

According to him, this expansion is expected to create demand for cleaning services and systems. “If you have more warehouses, you will obviously need scanning machines, cleaning manpower, cleaning systems in place,” he adds.

“The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment.”
— Sahil Jain

Big Change

As infrastructure scales up, the cleaning ecosystem is being pushed to evolve alongside it.

Vedant highlights that India’s cleaning ecosystem has historically been labour-intensive, largely because labour availability made manual cleaning economically viable. However, the scale and complexity of infrastructure being created today — large airports, metro systems, industrial corridors, logistics parks, and mega manufacturing facilities — are fundamentally changing operational requirements.

“The Union Budget’s continued focus on infrastructure expansion and rising capital expenditure is reinforcing the creation of large, high-footfall public and industrial assets that demand far more efficient and standardised maintenance practices. In such environments, manual cleaning alone is no longer sufficient. Facility operators increasingly require mechanised cleaning equipment, automation, and productivity-driven solutions to maintain large areas efficiently while meeting higher standards of hygiene and safety,” says Vedant.

The Budget positions robotics and AI as “core productivity drivers”. According to Anil Sathe, Chief Growth Officer at Kinetiq RRobotics, adoption on the ground is evolving in phases. “The mid-market is still evaluating, but the shift from ‘cost’ to ‘capability’ has clearly begun. There is a marginal shift in the outlook towards robots as productivity and efficient tools. However, large enterprises in India have already moved from discussion mode to piloting robots to measuring productivity and efficiency gains,” says Anil.

He adds that with millennials in decision-making roles gradually handing over to Gen Z, “we will witness a paradigm shift in the use of AI and robotics in the coming years and this will be very fast”.

On India’s ambition to become an automation execution hub, Anil believes that the country is “on the cusp,” with talent and adaptability already in place. However, he emphasises that policy support, infrastructure consistency and hardware localisation will be critical to scaling that vision.

However, Anil emphasises that the ecosystem will need to adapt, with greater focus on application-level and technician-focused training to support large-scale deployment and maintenance of robotics. “We have the necessary skill set available in the country, and with proper government funding and initiatives, this can be realised into the workforce seamlessly,” he says while underlining the need to align training with real-world operational requirements.

“India is on the cusp and a boost due from government policy and initiatives would be a major step in the right direction. India has the talent and adaptability to become an automation execution hub.”
— Anil Sathe

Opening Avenues

As infrastructure expands and policy direction supports technology adoption, the shift toward mechanised and robotic solutions is becoming more visible — though it remains closely tied to economics and real-world viability.

Vedant notes that while the budget may not directly legislate mechanisation, its broader policy direction — supporting infrastructure growth, manufacturing and technology adoption — “creates the right ecosystem for this transition”. “As the scale of assets increases, the economics naturally begin to favour machine-assisted cleaning systems that improve productivity, reduce dependence on large labour pools, and ensure consistent quality,” he says.

For Charnock Equipments Pvt. Ltd., Vedant describes this as a “significant inflection point”, adding that it will accelerate the adoption of mechanised cleaning across sectors.

At the same time, Anil highlights that adoption — especially in robotics — is evolving alongside funding access and business models. “MSMEs will adopt and will see a shift towards automated solutions as more local and government funding and initiatives are made accessible to the robotics sector. The market will evolve through Capex-led investments, but the real trigger will come from flexible models such as pay-as-you-use (PAYU) and Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS),” he explains.

However, the transition is still strongly influenced by return on investment. While AI is already widely used in computing and design, Anil points out that robotic cleaning solutions still lag due to ROI constraints. “Once the price differential between mechanised and robotic solutions breaches approximately 40%, we will witness a shift towards robotic cleaning solutions. For wider adoption, robots need to deliver a clear 12–18-month payback. When the monthly cost aligns with 1.5–2 manpower equivalents, the decision becomes much easier,” adds Anil.

Early signals of this shift are already visible. “The budget has improved intent and enquiry levels. We are seeing more serious conversations, especially at leadership levels, though conversions still depend on ROI clarity. With infrastructure expanding, this shift towards AI and robotic solutions is beginning to reflect in sales funnels, supported by measurable data from proof-of-concept deployments across sectors,” says Anil.

Adoption is also likely to vary by sector. “Healthcare, food and pharma and education will lead adoption because hygiene is non-negotiable. In these environments, the value of consistency and compliance is immediate and measurable. At the same time, airports are already among the fastest and largest adopters of robotics, driven by large infrastructure players such as Adani, Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao (GMR) and Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy (GVK),” says Anil.

Work In Progress

While the Union Budget continues to emphasise strengthening the country’s manufacturing ecosystem and industrial supply chains, industry voices suggest that the path toward localisation remains gradual and constrained by current market realities.

Vedant notes that the policy direction presents a significant opportunity for the professional cleaning equipment industry. “However, the current consumption volumes of mechanized cleaning machines in India do not justify the costs associated with producing completely indigenous equipment and are acting as a deterrent for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) like us to operate full scale end to end manufacturing units in India,” he says.

At present, certain high-end machines and critical components are still largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialized motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

For now, import dependence remains significant. Matta explains that certain high-end machines and critical components continue to be largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialised motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

A similar reality exists in robotics. Shares Anil, “India still lacks the infrastructure and capabilities for mass-scale production of robotics… and we have very few indigenous products in the market.”

However, he highlights that the country has strong software capabilities and skilled manpower, which are currently playing a key role in adapting robotics solutions for the domestic market. “We are on the right track to take a big leap,” he adds.

At the same time, access to policy incentives remains uneven. Sahil points out that manufacturing incentives are largely designed for large-scale industries, particularly sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electronics. “For a country as big as India, the cleaning machines industry is still very small. They give PLIs and incentives to big companies and the others like us where investments are lower generally do not get a lot of incentives from the government,” he says, noting that such benefits are typically linked to investments running into thousands of crores and large-scale employment generation.

Matta, however, sees a long-term shift underway. As domestic demand becomes more predictable, he says, there will be increasing incentives for localisation, supply chain development and technology investment within India. “For us, the opportunity lies in gradually strengthening local manufacturing while combining global technology with Indian engineering and cost efficiencies,” he says.

Over time, he adds, this could help reduce dependence on imports and position India not just as a large consumer market, but also as a competitive manufacturing hub for professional cleaning equipment.

Next Phase

As the Budget continues to emphasise infrastructure, industrial expansion and services, industry experts stress on the combination of policy direction, workforce readiness and operating models that will shape the future of the cleaning and automation ecosystem.

Vedant feels that if one policy direction has the potential to significantly transform the professional cleaning industry, it is the government’s continued emphasis on large-scale infrastructure and industrial development through sustained capital expenditure. He adds that India’s flagship initiative, “Swacch Bharat Abhiyan,” should gradually move towards the use of mechanised cleaning equipment to ensure more efficient and effective maintenance of cleaning standards across the country.

Vedant also highlights the growing importance of economic clusters such as manufacturing zones, logistics parks and integrated commercial hubs. “The development of these clusters will create significant opportunities for automated and industrial cleaning equipment. These environments operate on the synergy of vast built-up areas, high operational intensity and continuous movement of goods and people, all of which require consistent and efficient maintenance,” he says.

Anil emphasises that the next phase of growth will be driven by partnerships rather than standalone product sales. “The future lies in partnerships — especially with integrated facility management and facility management companies — where robotics is embedded into service delivery rather than sold as standalone products,” he says.

Anil added that companies are increasingly adopting a multi-point go-to-market approach, combining direct and indirect sales while working closely with facility management firms, which he described as “a great catalyst in this growth process.”

At the same time, workforce capability remains central to this transition. Matta is of the strong view that training and skill development will be absolutely critical as the industry moves towards mechanisation.

The Budget’s focus on linking education to employment in service sectors is therefore a positive step, creating opportunities for an influx of fresh manpower and structured skill development programmes.

According to Vedant, these can help workers transition from manual roles to machine operators, supervisors and facility management professionals, improving not just efficiency but also safety and long-term career prospects. “Ultimately, the future of the professional cleaning industry in India will depend not only on advanced equipment, but also on a well-trained workforce capable of operating and maintaining these technologies effectively,” he says.

India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?
Industry 12 min read

India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?


India’s infrastructure-led growth is creating a ripple effect that is steadily reshaping the cleaning ecosystem. While the Union Budget stops short of direct policy triggers, the scale of new assets — from airports to industrial hubs — is set to drive long-term demand for maintenance, mechanisation and automation. The opportunity is clear but gradual, shaped by cost, skills and adoption realities. Clean India Journal’s Manka Behl spoke to industry experts on how the sector is evolving alongside this shift.

The country’s Union Budget, presented earlier in the year by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, doubles down on a familiar ambition — build bigger, build faster, and build across sectors. From high-speed rail corridors and logistics networks to industrial clusters and urban expansion — the blueprint for growth is firmly anchored in infrastructure.

But as cranes rise and concrete spreads, a quieter, less visible layer of this growth story is beginning to come into focus: What happens after the build is complete?

For India’s cleaning ecosystem, the Budget does not offer direct policy triggers. Yet it sets in motion a chain reaction. Every airport terminal, warehouse, hospital, metro station or industrial hub being planned today becomes, eventually, a space that must be cleaned, maintained and managed — not occasionally, but continuously.

The result is a sector that sits just outside the spotlight of policy, but increasingly at the centre of execution.

Industry voices suggest that the opportunity is real, expanding and inevitable — but also gradual, uneven and shaped by on-ground realities of cost, scale, skills and adoption.

Think Upkeep

As infrastructure creation accelerates, a key theme emerging from the industry is the need to align construction with long-term upkeep.

“India’s strong push toward infrastructure creation through record capital expenditure is undoubtedly a positive step for economic growth. However, while we are building world-class transport networks, logistics hubs, airports, industrial parks, and urban infrastructure at an unprecedented pace, the conversation around long-term maintenance of hygiene and cleanliness at these locations is still evolving,” says Vedant Matta, Director-Sales of Charnock Equipments Pvt Ltd.

Vedant points out that globally, infrastructure planning integrates mechanised cleaning, facility management and predictive maintenance at the design stage. “In India, however, maintenance technologies are often introduced only after the asset becomes operational,” he says.

This, he notes, can lead to inefficiencies, higher costs and faster deterioration of public infrastructure. “As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset. This will not only extend the lifespan of assets but also ensure hygiene, safety, and sustainability in high-footfall environments such as airports, metro stations, hospitals, and public buildings,” adds Vedant.

“As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset.”
— Vedant Matta

According to Sahil Jain, Managing Director of Columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt Ltd, the cleaning industry will not see an immediate spike, with most benefits expected to accrue over the long term. “The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment,” says Jain.

In the near term, increased public capital expenditure could provide indirect support. “When they increase the public capital expenditure, it basically also acts as an impetus to the private sector infrastructure development,” adds Sahil.

According to him, this expansion is expected to create demand for cleaning services and systems. “If you have more warehouses, you will obviously need scanning machines, cleaning manpower, cleaning systems in place,” he adds.

“The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment.”
— Sahil Jain

Big Change

As infrastructure scales up, the cleaning ecosystem is being pushed to evolve alongside it.

Vedant highlights that India’s cleaning ecosystem has historically been labour-intensive, largely because labour availability made manual cleaning economically viable. However, the scale and complexity of infrastructure being created today — large airports, metro systems, industrial corridors, logistics parks, and mega manufacturing facilities — are fundamentally changing operational requirements.

“The Union Budget’s continued focus on infrastructure expansion and rising capital expenditure is reinforcing the creation of large, high-footfall public and industrial assets that demand far more efficient and standardised maintenance practices. In such environments, manual cleaning alone is no longer sufficient. Facility operators increasingly require mechanised cleaning equipment, automation, and productivity-driven solutions to maintain large areas efficiently while meeting higher standards of hygiene and safety,” says Vedant.

The Budget positions robotics and AI as “core productivity drivers”. According to Anil Sathe, Chief Growth Officer at Kinetiq RRobotics, adoption on the ground is evolving in phases. “The mid-market is still evaluating, but the shift from ‘cost’ to ‘capability’ has clearly begun. There is a marginal shift in the outlook towards robots as productivity and efficient tools. However, large enterprises in India have already moved from discussion mode to piloting robots to measuring productivity and efficiency gains,” says Anil.

He adds that with millennials in decision-making roles gradually handing over to Gen Z, “we will witness a paradigm shift in the use of AI and robotics in the coming years and this will be very fast”.

On India’s ambition to become an automation execution hub, Anil believes that the country is “on the cusp,” with talent and adaptability already in place. However, he emphasises that policy support, infrastructure consistency and hardware localisation will be critical to scaling that vision.

However, Anil emphasises that the ecosystem will need to adapt, with greater focus on application-level and technician-focused training to support large-scale deployment and maintenance of robotics. “We have the necessary skill set available in the country, and with proper government funding and initiatives, this can be realised into the workforce seamlessly,” he says while underlining the need to align training with real-world operational requirements.

“India is on the cusp and a boost due from government policy and initiatives would be a major step in the right direction. India has the talent and adaptability to become an automation execution hub.”
— Anil Sathe

Opening Avenues

As infrastructure expands and policy direction supports technology adoption, the shift toward mechanised and robotic solutions is becoming more visible — though it remains closely tied to economics and real-world viability.

Vedant notes that while the budget may not directly legislate mechanisation, its broader policy direction — supporting infrastructure growth, manufacturing and technology adoption — “creates the right ecosystem for this transition”. “As the scale of assets increases, the economics naturally begin to favour machine-assisted cleaning systems that improve productivity, reduce dependence on large labour pools, and ensure consistent quality,” he says.

For Charnock Equipments Pvt. Ltd., Vedant describes this as a “significant inflection point”, adding that it will accelerate the adoption of mechanised cleaning across sectors.

At the same time, Anil highlights that adoption — especially in robotics — is evolving alongside funding access and business models. “MSMEs will adopt and will see a shift towards automated solutions as more local and government funding and initiatives are made accessible to the robotics sector. The market will evolve through Capex-led investments, but the real trigger will come from flexible models such as pay-as-you-use (PAYU) and Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS),” he explains.

However, the transition is still strongly influenced by return on investment. While AI is already widely used in computing and design, Anil points out that robotic cleaning solutions still lag due to ROI constraints. “Once the price differential between mechanised and robotic solutions breaches approximately 40%, we will witness a shift towards robotic cleaning solutions. For wider adoption, robots need to deliver a clear 12–18-month payback. When the monthly cost aligns with 1.5–2 manpower equivalents, the decision becomes much easier,” adds Anil.

Early signals of this shift are already visible. “The budget has improved intent and enquiry levels. We are seeing more serious conversations, especially at leadership levels, though conversions still depend on ROI clarity. With infrastructure expanding, this shift towards AI and robotic solutions is beginning to reflect in sales funnels, supported by measurable data from proof-of-concept deployments across sectors,” says Anil.

Adoption is also likely to vary by sector. “Healthcare, food and pharma and education will lead adoption because hygiene is non-negotiable. In these environments, the value of consistency and compliance is immediate and measurable. At the same time, airports are already among the fastest and largest adopters of robotics, driven by large infrastructure players such as Adani, Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao (GMR) and Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy (GVK),” says Anil.

Work In Progress

While the Union Budget continues to emphasise strengthening the country’s manufacturing ecosystem and industrial supply chains, industry voices suggest that the path toward localisation remains gradual and constrained by current market realities.

Vedant notes that the policy direction presents a significant opportunity for the professional cleaning equipment industry. “However, the current consumption volumes of mechanized cleaning machines in India do not justify the costs associated with producing completely indigenous equipment and are acting as a deterrent for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) like us to operate full scale end to end manufacturing units in India,” he says.

At present, certain high-end machines and critical components are still largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialized motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

For now, import dependence remains significant. Matta explains that certain high-end machines and critical components continue to be largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialised motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

A similar reality exists in robotics. Shares Anil, “India still lacks the infrastructure and capabilities for mass-scale production of robotics… and we have very few indigenous products in the market.”

However, he highlights that the country has strong software capabilities and skilled manpower, which are currently playing a key role in adapting robotics solutions for the domestic market. “We are on the right track to take a big leap,” he adds.

At the same time, access to policy incentives remains uneven. Sahil points out that manufacturing incentives are largely designed for large-scale industries, particularly sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electronics. “For a country as big as India, the cleaning machines industry is still very small. They give PLIs and incentives to big companies and the others like us where investments are lower generally do not get a lot of incentives from the government,” he says, noting that such benefits are typically linked to investments running into thousands of crores and large-scale employment generation.

Matta, however, sees a long-term shift underway. As domestic demand becomes more predictable, he says, there will be increasing incentives for localisation, supply chain development and technology investment within India. “For us, the opportunity lies in gradually strengthening local manufacturing while combining global technology with Indian engineering and cost efficiencies,” he says.

Over time, he adds, this could help reduce dependence on imports and position India not just as a large consumer market, but also as a competitive manufacturing hub for professional cleaning equipment.

Next Phase

As the Budget continues to emphasise infrastructure, industrial expansion and services, industry experts stress on the combination of policy direction, workforce readiness and operating models that will shape the future of the cleaning and automation ecosystem.

Vedant feels that if one policy direction has the potential to significantly transform the professional cleaning industry, it is the government’s continued emphasis on large-scale infrastructure and industrial development through sustained capital expenditure. He adds that India’s flagship initiative, “Swacch Bharat Abhiyan,” should gradually move towards the use of mechanised cleaning equipment to ensure more efficient and effective maintenance of cleaning standards across the country.

Vedant also highlights the growing importance of economic clusters such as manufacturing zones, logistics parks and integrated commercial hubs. “The development of these clusters will create significant opportunities for automated and industrial cleaning equipment. These environments operate on the synergy of vast built-up areas, high operational intensity and continuous movement of goods and people, all of which require consistent and efficient maintenance,” he says.

Anil emphasises that the next phase of growth will be driven by partnerships rather than standalone product sales. “The future lies in partnerships — especially with integrated facility management and facility management companies — where robotics is embedded into service delivery rather than sold as standalone products,” he says.

Anil added that companies are increasingly adopting a multi-point go-to-market approach, combining direct and indirect sales while working closely with facility management firms, which he described as “a great catalyst in this growth process.”

At the same time, workforce capability remains central to this transition. Matta is of the strong view that training and skill development will be absolutely critical as the industry moves towards mechanisation.

The Budget’s focus on linking education to employment in service sectors is therefore a positive step, creating opportunities for an influx of fresh manpower and structured skill development programmes.

According to Vedant, these can help workers transition from manual roles to machine operators, supervisors and facility management professionals, improving not just efficiency but also safety and long-term career prospects. “Ultimately, the future of the professional cleaning industry in India will depend not only on advanced equipment, but also on a well-trained workforce capable of operating and maintaining these technologies effectively,” he says.

The Robot Is Ready. Is India?
Robotics & Automation 8 min read

The Robot Is Ready. Is India?


Industry experts Steven Yu, Divya Ramraika and Anil Sathe discussed how robotics, AI and automation are gradually reshaping India’s facility management and cleaning sectors, while addressing operational efficiency, workforce shortages and the realities of deploying robots in complex Indian environments.

The first hour is usually chaos. People gather around, pull out their phones, click selfies and watch the robot move through the corridor like a celebrity entering the building.

But once the excitement settles, the machine quietly gets to work — cleaning floors, avoiding obstacles, mapping spaces and becoming what industry experts call the “101st worker” inside the facility. And that, perhaps, is where India’s robotics story is beginning.

It was this transition — from curiosity to operational support — that formed the centre of a recent discussion hosted by Clean India Journal featuring Steven Yu, Senior Vice President at OrionStar; Divya Ramraika, Managing Director at Kinetiq Rrobotics Pvt. Ltd; and Anil Sathe, Chief Growth Officer at Kinetiq Rrobotics Pvt. Ltd.

The discussion explored how robotics, AI and automation are gradually reshaping India’s facility management and cleaning sectors while addressing labour shortages, operational efficiency and the realities of deploying robots in complex Indian environments.

Why India

At the heart of the discussion was a question both simple and significant: “Why India?”

For Steven Yu, the answer came from years of observing the Indian market evolve. Before entering the robotics business nearly a decade ago, he had worked with Indian telecom companies during the country’s mobile phone boom — an experience that revealed both the scale of the Indian market and its willingness to embrace technology rapidly.

“That was when I realised India is truly a vast market,” he said, recalling how quickly Indian consumers adapted to mobile technology. He now sees a similar shift unfolding in robotics.

According to Steven, changing workforce patterns and growing labour shortages are creating the right conditions for automation-led solutions, particularly in repetitive sectors such as cleaning and facility management.

“Doing the same work every day is not ideal for human beings. This is where machines can contribute,” he observed, adding that younger generations are increasingly unwilling to take up repetitive labour-intensive work.

At the same time, he rejected the common perception that robots are designed to replace workers.

“Robots are tools to help people work more efficiently,” he said, explaining that workers can instead learn to operate robotic systems and move into newer roles.

Growth Opportunity

India’s infrastructure story is growing faster than its operational systems can keep pace with. For robotics companies entering the country, that gap between expansion and execution is emerging as one of the biggest opportunities for automation-led technologies.

Divya Ramraika highlighted what he described as a “huge vacuum” in the country.

“While infrastructure growth has accelerated, advanced automated cleaning systems are still relatively new in the Indian market. At the pace with which our country is developing, we need robots for our large infrastructures,” he said.

For now, he believes partnerships with global robotics companies remain the fastest route to adoption while helping India gradually build local manufacturing and software capabilities.

Smart Navigation

Robots operating in neat, predictable environments is easy. The real engineering challenge begins in India — where crowded hallways, moving trolleys, heavy footfall and constant interruptions are part of the everyday landscape.

Divya said the company is investing heavily in software capabilities that allow robots to map and understand operational spaces more intelligently.

“Dedicated software teams train the robots to identify where they need to move, which areas require cleaning and which zones are designated for service operations,” he explained.

Equipped with LiDAR systems, cameras and sensing technologies, the robots continuously scan and interpret their surroundings while functioning.

“If there is some obstruction, it can stop, take a detour through another route and continue the work,” he said.

Rather than stopping permanently, the robots are programmed to reroute themselves and continue operations with minimal interruption. The systems can detect moving humans, chairs, walls and other obstacles before responding through automated navigation adjustments.

According to Divya, Indian public spaces are precisely where robotic systems can be most effective.

“In airports, malls and hospitals, the robots operate through predefined cleaning routes while revisiting areas periodically depending on footfall and operational requirements,” he explained.

The systems are also equipped with AI-enabled visual detection capabilities that help identify localised dirt, spills and garbage in real time.

Labour Shift

The cleaning industry has traditionally depended on manpower-heavy operations, but the pressure points are becoming increasingly visible.

As workforce shortages deepen and facilities become more complex to manage, the conversation is gradually shifting from manpower availability to operational efficiency, accountability and real-time data.

Having witnessed the shift from manual cleaning to mechanised systems since joining the industry in 2007, Anil Sathe described autonomous robotics as the next logical progression.

“The journey from mechanised cleaning to autonomous robotics is now beginning,” he said.

Contrary to the perception that India has abundant manpower, Anil argued that labour shortages are already becoming a major operational challenge.

“If companies require 100 people, very often only 80 are available,” he explained, adding that those 80 workers are then expected to complete 100% of the work.

This growing manpower gap within facility management has created what he described as an operational vacuum — one that robotics and AI-driven systems are beginning to address through “robotic co-working”.

“Most of the top leadership is looking forward to this type of innovation where they can handle efficiencies properly,” he observed.

According to him, once organisations begin understanding efficiency management through automation, robotics could emerge as one of the industry’s biggest focus areas.

Measurable Outcomes

Anil pointed out that while large workforces are already deployed across the cleaning industry, most operations still lack measurable quantification.

“With robotics and AI, every process can be quantified,” he explained.

Facility management companies traditionally evaluate operations through square-foot coverage, but robotics takes that further by generating real-time operational data and measurable performance insights.

The shift, according to experts, is no longer only about replacing manual effort with machines. It is increasingly about visibility, consistency and measurable operational outcomes.

Common Myths

For many, the biggest concern around robotics in India is not the technology itself, but whether machines can realistically function amid crowded corridors, unstable connectivity and constantly moving public spaces.

According to the experts, however, most of those fears are built more on perception than reality.

Addressing one of the biggest misconceptions around robotics, Anil said, “People think robots stop because Wi-Fi is not available or internet is not available. That is one of the biggest myths.”

The systems function as AMRs — Autonomous Mobile Robots — operating through sensors and navigation technologies rather than internet-based commands.

“Whether it is a delivery robot or a cleaning robot, each machine is equipped with multiple sensors that continuously monitor movement and surroundings,” he explained.

At the same time, he acknowledged that introducing robots into facilities comes with an adjustment phase because people are still adapting to working alongside machines.

“The most exciting thing that happens is everybody wants a selfie with the robot,” he remarked.

Having overseen nearly 20 to 25 proof-of-concept deployments across India, Anil described this initial excitement as a “good chaos” that accompanies almost every implementation.

“Our first job is to take this one hour of excitement in a positive way,” he said, adding that once the novelty fades, the robot gradually becomes part of the workforce.

Imperfect Spaces

India’s challenge is not just scale, but unpredictability. Floors vary, layouts shift constantly and public spaces rarely stay still long enough for automation to function in perfectly controlled conditions.

Steven Yu said navigation technology and hardware systems are evolving rapidly to handle increasingly complex environments.

“Currently, the navigation algorithms solve most of the problems. We are now introducing 3D LiDAR-based systems for smoother and more intelligent movement around obstacles,” he said.

When asked how the robots would respond to potholes or damaged flooring, the experts clarified that while the systems can detect potholes and navigate around them, they are fundamentally designed for flat surfaces.

The software can also identify different floor types within the same property.

“You can define that one area has wooden flooring and another has marble flooring. Accordingly, the robot can take decisions and use suitable accessories while cleaning,” they explained.

Beyond Cleaning

As robotics adoption expands, the conversation is also shifting toward sustainability, battery ecosystems and long-term manufacturing ambitions.

Talking about water recycling, Steven informed that OrionStar currently offers two categories of cleaning robots.

“In one category, dirty water is collected separately and discharged after use. The second category — expected to enter India later this year — will feature water recycling technology,” he said.

According to him, the system filters dirty water internally, removes solid particles and recirculates treated water back into the cleaning process, functioning similarly to an STP-based recycling mechanism.

The robots currently operate with water tank capacities of around 35 litres for standard office applications, while larger machines ranging from 25 litres to 45 litres are also available.

The discussion also turned to lithium battery systems, which experts admitted is becoming an important subject within India’s growing electronics ecosystem.

“The robots currently use lithium batteries manufactured according to European standards,” Steven said, adding that future localisation of battery manufacturing in India remains part of the long-term roadmap.

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Shopfloor Cleaning: Matching Machines to Industrial Needs
Industry Cleaning 6 min read

Shopfloor Cleaning: Matching Machines to Industrial Needs


In terms of cleanliness, what has been the norm for international MNCs for years, is now being adapted even by MSMEs besides corporates in India. There is a growing understanding of the need to maintain clean shopfloors.

Sahil Jain, Managing Director, columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt. Ltd, elaborates on how the impact of maintaining clean spaces could help in the elimination of visual and distractive clutter; enable efficient access to materials; create positive mental impact for a sense of calm and productive mood and maintain a professional attitude.

Selecting the right cleaning machine depends on factors like floor type, debris type, area size, and budget. A one-size-fits-all approach does not work in industrial cleaning.
— Sahil Jain

Cleaning machines used in shopfloors

In industrial shopfloors, the type of floor cleaning machine needed depends on factors like the floor material, the type of dirt or debris present, and the size of the space. Here’s a breakdown of cleaning machines commonly used in industrial settings and the tasks they are best suited for:

  1. Floor Sweepers: Sweepers are used to collect and remove dry debris such as dust, dirt, metal shavings, and small trash. They are ideal for quickly covering large, open spaces or concrete and asphalt floors.
  2. Scrubber Dryers (Walk-Behind or Ride-On): Scrubbers use water, detergent, and rotating brushes to deep-clean floors, breaking down dirt and grime. They are excellent for sticky messes, oils, grease, and other substances that require deeper cleaning. Essential in factories or production areas where floors are exposed to oils, grease, food production residue, or manufacturing byproducts. Ideal for concrete, tile, or sealed floors.
  3. Industrial Vacuum Cleaners: Designed to capture fine dust and debris that sweeping or scrubbing machines might miss, especially in areas with limited access for scrubbers. Some models handle both dry and wet debris, making them versatile. Perfect for environments with fine powders such as wood dust, metal dust, or chemical powders, or in areas that require a high level of cleanliness, such as clean rooms, electronics factories, or hazardous material zones. HEPA-filtered vacuums are particularly effective in industries where air quality is crucial.
  4. Pressure Washers: High-pressure water jets blast away dirt, grease, and other tough contaminants. They’re ideal for cleaning stubborn stains or heavily soiled areas. However, they are not suitable for areas with a high risk of water damage, such as certain machinery, electrical systems, or environments with hazardous substances. They can also damage sensitive flooring, such as epoxy-coated floors commonly found in pharmaceutical companies or wooden flooring.
Industrial shopfloor cleaningIndustrial cleaning equipment

Best machines for specific needs

Selecting the right cleaning machine depends on factors like floor type, debris type, area size, and budget. A one-size-fits-all approach does not work in industrial cleaning. Solutions are tailored to match specific client requirements.

A range of accessories, including batteries, brushes, and squeegees, are available for scrubbers, along with specialized kits for industrial vacuums—such as HEPA filters, H-class filters, pre-filters, and anti-static kits—ensuring compatibility with diverse cleaning needs.

Operational cost efficiency is prioritized through high-capacity ride-on machines equipped with 100L tanks and 390Ah battery options, providing up to 8 hours of runtime on a single charge. This setup helps reduce both capital expenditure and labor costs.

Improved efficiency and reduced costs

A recent project in a railway wagon manufacturing facility led to a 30% reduction in cleaning costs. By optimizing machine selection, the facility transitioned from three machines with three operators to two high-efficiency ARA100 ride-ons, maintaining cleanliness and safety while lowering operational expenses.

In the metals industry, specialized equipment is available to collect liquids such as oil and coolant along with metal chips, efficiently separating them for reuse or resale—minimizing waste and maximizing resource recovery.

In a non-woven fabric board manufacturing unit, airborne fabric fluffs from cutting and processing posed both a health risk and cleanliness challenge. A customized industrial vacuum system was integrated into the production line, effectively capturing lint at the source and improving workplace safety and hygiene.

An advanced airflow management system in the latest sweepers enhances dust control by integrating vacuum motors in the side brushes to capture airborne particles during sweeping. The ride-on models feature a self-leveling main brush to adjust for uneven factory or paver block flooring. Machines use an overthrow principle for maximizing hopper capacity, improving productivity, and reducing downtime.

Machines are designed with the lowest noise levels while providing the highest coverage area, brush, and suction pressures to ensure superior cleaning performance. A robust build with a steel chassis and high-quality components extends machine lifespan, reducing breakdowns and maintenance costs. This not only lowers overall ownership costs but also reduces environmental impact by minimizing plastic waste.

Maintenance, Operations, Effectiveness

A streamlined design focuses on essential components, eliminating unnecessary complexity for improved functionality and maintenance. Scrubber dryers feature just two operation buttons — one for water/brush and another for suction. Large ride-on machines have swivel recovery tanks for quick access to vital components and batteries. Simple electrical wiring and basic mechanical operations enhance ease of maintenance.

Each machine is supplied with easy-to-understand operation and maintenance manuals, along with self-help troubleshooting videos. A language-free, symbol-oriented maintenance card is included for daily and weekly upkeep, complemented by stickers on machine parts for easy reference. A yellow circle indicates daily cleaning, while a yellow square marks weekly maintenance tasks.

A highly capable team of technicians is always available for support, ensuring machines operate at peak efficiency with minimal downtime.

Cleaning chemicals and equipment
Expert Guide 8 min read

How To Decide on the Chemicals to Feed Your Equipment?


Not all cleaning chemicals are created equally, especially when it comes to protecting your equipment. Choosing the wrong solution can lead to corrosion, foaming, seal damage or even complete machine failure. This guide will help you evaluate which chemicals are safe, effective, and compatible with your floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, and other industrial cleaning machines.

Enzyme-Based Solutions: Decoding What is Truly Sustainable

Kshitiz Chaudhary, Founder & MD, Cizar Hygienecare Pvt. Ltd.

When evaluating enzyme-based cleaning solutions, buyers should start by closely examining the ingredients. A genuinely sustainable product should use biodegradable, non-toxic components, free from harsh chemicals, and pH is a factor when you can understand if it is safe or not.

There could be the claim that a cleaning chemical is enzyme-based, hence considered an eco-friendly cleaning chemical, but you can use enzymes to enhance the efficacy of your present toxic chemical-based cleaning chemicals. Buyers should look for full ingredient disclosure.

Beyond ingredients, efficacy and dilution are where enzyme-based products distinguish themselves. A good formulation will work effectively at high dilutions, reducing both cost-in-use and packaging waste and environmental impact.

Additionally, the contact time required for action should align with the intended application — fast-acting for daily cleaning, longer dwell times for deep cleaning or organic digestion. In sum, enzyme cleaners can offer powerful, sustainable alternatives to traditional chemicals when chosen based on transparent formulation, proven performance, and responsible use recommendations.

Choosing Equipment-Compatible Chemical Solutions

Sahil Jain, Managing Director, columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt Ltd.

Certain chemical solutions, while effective at cleaning, can inadvertently damage cleaning equipment if not chosen carefully. Harsh acids and bases — such as hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide — can corrode steel and degrade seals, leading to premature equipment failure.

Strong oxidisers like hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, or bleach may deteriorate plastics, rubber components, and sensitive fittings if not properly rinsed.

Solvent-based degreasers, often used to remove oily residues, can be particularly aggressive — drying out gaskets, softening tubing, or affecting pump seals. Even alcohols like isopropanol, though commonly used, can weaken machines over time.

These risks highlight the need to balance cleaning power with chemical compatibility to avoid compromising equipment performance.

Also, for particularly challenging or aggressive environments, we always suggest choosing the right SOPs along with specific machines like stainless steel chassis or oil-resistant squeegees and rubber guards.

On the other hand, certain formulations can help maintain and even extend the life of cleaning equipment. Neutral-pH detergents and low-residue disinfectants are generally safer for internal components and reduce the risk of buildup or clogging.

Degreasers, often water-based or emulsifying types, offer strong cleaning action for oily surfaces without the material damage associated with harsher solvents. Anti-foaming agents, when incorporated into cleaning solutions, also play a crucial role by preventing excessive foam generation that can disrupt sensors, or cause suction motors to fail.

Selecting cleaning agents with both performance and material safety in mind ensures operational reliability and extends the service life of critical cleaning equipment. We always advise customers to perform small-scale compatibility and efficacy tests before full-scale implementation, especially when using a new chemical or cleaning a new material.

Preserving Equipment in Critical Environments

Saleel Kodambadan, Sr. Manager – Training & Business Operations (Kerala), Tennant Company

When evaluating chemical solutions for critical area cleaning, it is essential to choose products that do not compromise the performance or longevity of cleaning equipment.

Chemicals should be tested and proven non-reactive with sensitive internal components like seals, pumps, tanks, spray nozzles, and dosing systems. This is especially important for machines that rely on automated chemical dosing, where the viscosity and concentration of the solution must remain consistent to ensure accurate delivery.

Using incompatible chemicals can lead to equipment breakdowns, inaccurate dosing, clogging, or even void warranties.

Equally important is choosing low-foam, non-corrosive, and residue-free formulations that meet hygiene and environmental standards. In critical environments such as pharmaceutical cleanrooms, hospitals, and food processing units, these solutions must leave no films or residues that could affect sterility or compliance.

Choose chemicals certified by recognised agencies like NSF, CE, or REACH, and aligned with cGMP, HACCP, or ISO cleanroom classifications. Most importantly, ensure they come with documented compatibility for specific equipment types — such as floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, or high-pressure washers — to maintain operational efficiency and support compliance goals.

Understanding Green Chemistry and Certification

Sandhya Shrivastava, PhD, Director, Bhavan’s Research Center, Retd. Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Bhavan’s College

Green chemicals, also known as environmentally friendly or sustainable chemicals, are substances designed to minimise harm to human health and the environment, as these aim to reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous substances during the design, manufacture, and application of chemical products.

Their relevance is growing rapidly, in almost all sectors as the general public, industry, and regulatory bodies are getting more concerned and cautious about environmental safety and sustainability.

Though there are multiple areas where green chemicals are being used, there is a focused approach for using the green chemicals in the areas of cleaning and disinfection, as most of the currently used chemicals are harsh, contributing to not only pollutants, but also leading to development of antimicrobial resistance.

Key Features

  1. Non-toxic or low toxicity, biodegradable: Traditional cleaning agents such as bleach, ammonia, phenols are being replaced by biodegradable actives, such as hydrogen peroxide, organic acids (viz. citric, lactic, or acetic), enzymes (viz. proteases, amylases, lipases), plant-based surfactants (viz. coconut, corn-derived).
  2. Environmental Footprint Reduction: The green chemicals degrade rapidly in natural environment, bioaccumulation and residual toxicity for aquatic life is minimal. Chemical burden in wastewater is reduced. Rate of development of resistance to antimicrobial agents is also lowered.
  3. Use of solvent-free or benign solvent systems: Using water-based or green solvents like ethanol, glycerol, or ethyl lactate, as against chlorinated or petrochemical-based agents.
  4. Compliance and Certifications: Products that follow sustainable cleaning chemistry principles are often certified under BIS Eco Mark (India), ECOCERT (Europe), US EPA Safer Choice (USA), etc.
  5. Limitations of using Green Chemicals: Higher cost (H₂O₂ vs phenolics), lesser efficacy (less potent, slow-acting), shorter shelf life (as are more sensitive to temperature, light, or contamination), standardisation and certification challenges.

Transitioning to Sustainable Cleaning Options for a Microbiology Laboratory

  • Reduction in environmental footprint: Green disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide or plant-based quats can replace harsher compounds like glutaraldehyde or chlorine-based agents.
  • Use of chemicals that degrade more readily, simplifying downstream waste treatment.
  • Improves safety for staff, thus helps with alignment with biosafety and regulatory requirements.
  • Aligns with ESG goals and sustainability mandates.

In conclusion, with numerous research laboratories and industries working on green chemicals, integration of green cleaning chemicals in all walks of life is a practical and ethical step toward safer, more sustainable practice for meeting one-health objective.

While initial adoption may require planning and investment, the long-term benefits — safer workspaces, regulatory compliance, and reduced environmental footprint — make the transition both necessary and worthwhile.

With increasing awareness and the growing availability of certified products in India, now is the ideal time for creating awareness and for institutions to embrace green chemistry.

Prioritising Ingredients to Align with Sustainability

Vanchinathan Sivaswamy, Head-Sales, SAARC, Rossari Professional

  1. Biodegradable Ingredients: Our formulations incorporate ingredients that break down naturally and quickly in the environment, minimising ecological impact.
  2. Non-Toxic Composition: We ensure our cleaning chemicals are free from harmful substances such as phosphates, chlorine, ammonia, VOCs and synthetic fragrances, promoting safety for both users and ecosystems.
  3. Use of Renewable and Natural Raw Materials: Rossari Professional emphasises sourcing ingredients derived from renewable resources, reducing dependency on petrochemical-based components and supporting sustainable supply chains.
  4. Elimination of Hazardous Chemicals: Our products are formulated to exclude persistent and hazardous substances, adhering to global safety and environmental standards.
  5. Low VOC Emissions: We develop products with low or zero VOC content to improve indoor air quality and reduce atmospheric pollution.
  6. Certifications and Eco-Labels: Our products often carry recognised sustainability certifications like Green Seal reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility.
  7. Concentrated Formulations & Eco-Friendly Packaging: We focus on creating concentrated formulas that reduce packaging waste and transportation footprint, paired with recyclable and eco-conscious packaging options.
  8. Fragrance and Dye-Free Options: To promote health and environmental safety, many of our cleaning solutions are fragrance-free or utilise natural scents, avoiding synthetic dyes and fragrances.

Sahil Jain, Managing Director, columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt. Ltd.
Interview 5 min read

Need to Use Modern Machines to Improve Productivity and Sustainability


In today’s cleaning industry, efficiency, sustainability and consistent quality are no longer optional — they are essential. Advanced cleaning machines are transforming how organisations manage hygiene while reducing labour time, saving resources and ensuring uniform cleaning standards, says Sahil Jain, Managing Director, columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt. Ltd.

Advanced cleaning technology is not just about speed — it ensures consistent quality, reduces resource consumption and pays back its investment in under two years.

How does investing in advanced cleaning equipment reduce overall cleaning time and labour costs?

The implementation of ride-on scrubber dryers provides a reduction of over 50 per cent of working time compared to standard walk-behind scrubber dryers. The faster working speed enables time saving and labour cost savings.

The extra costs for the purchase of a ride-on scrubber dryer will be balanced within two years, with return on investment achievable in 18 to 20 months. Using ride-on scrubbers instead of walk-behind scrubbers leads to higher cost effectiveness.

Comparison between Walk-Behind and Ride-On Scrubber Dryers

  • Working Width: 55 cm (walk-behind) vs 66 cm (ride-on)
  • Cleaning Speed: 2.5 km/h vs 4–6 km/h
  • Practical Coverage Area: 1500 m²/h vs 2770 m²/h
  • Increased Efficiency (Surface): +1270 m² with ride-on
  • Time Saving per Hour: 32 minutes (54%)
  • Time Saving per Year: 640 hours

On a medium-sized area of 30,000 sqm

  • Walk-behind machines (5 units + 5 operators): ₹1,65,000 per month
  • Ride-on machines (3 units + 3 operators): ₹1,35,000 per month — an 18 per cent saving
  • Higher the area, higher the savings.

How does modern cleaning technology improve cleaning quality and consistency?

Modern cleaning technology provides a level of quality and consistency that is difficult to achieve with manual labour.

Automated machines are programmed to follow precise patterns and apply the correct amount of pressure, detergent and water, ensuring a uniform clean across all surfaces. This eliminates the risk of human error, such as skipping a spot or applying too much or too little cleaning solution.

columbus machines come with HACCP compliant tanks and advanced features like microfibre technology and specialised brushes and squeegees that capture microscopic dirt particles and allergens, leading to a deeper and more hygienic clean.

This is particularly important in sensitive environments like hospitals and food processing facilities, where a high standard of cleanliness is non-negotiable.

“We want to push forward, not just lead the way. We therefore focus our attention on the essentials: What are the innovations that solve real problems? How do we implement them without making the machines more frail? And last but not least, the supreme discipline of engineering: How can we simplify existing solutions to such an extent that our machines become even more robust and sustainable?”

How does automated or smart cleaning equipment impact energy, water and chemical usage costs?

Sustainability is a key feature of all modern cleaning equipment. Less material consumption thanks to purist engineering, targeted use of recyclable materials, intelligent metering systems, energy-efficient, smooth-running gearboxes with minimum three-years warranty – these are just some of the parameters through which we are continually optimising the sustainability of our products.

The most important, however, is and remains the durability of our machines. Because only what lasts a long time can really be green.

Water-saving features, such as smart-dosing systems, Quick-Stop, splash guard and the special columbus-patented Water-Stop brushes can reduce water consumption by a significant margin.

Similarly, chemical-dosing systems ensure that the precise amount of cleaning solution is used for each task, preventing wastage and reducing the overall cost of chemicals. This not only benefits the environment and surface but also leads to substantial long-term savings.

Energy-efficient motors, low-noise operation and timed cleaning cycles reduce power consumption. These optimisations directly contribute to lower utility bills and chemical procurement costs — further enhancing the bottom line while supporting environmental goals.

What role does equipment durability and low maintenance play in long-term profitability?

The initial investment in advanced cleaning equipment might seem high, but its durability and low maintenance requirements make it a profitable long-term asset.

High-quality machines are built with robust materials that can withstand rigorous daily use, reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements. This minimises downtime and ensures that cleaning operations run smoothly without interruption.

Moreover, all our machines are designed for easy maintenance, with modular parts that are simple to replace. This reduces maintenance costs and the need for specialised technicians.

The combination of durability and low maintenance ensures a longer lifespan for the equipment, providing a greater return on investment and contributing significantly to the company’s long-term profitability.

India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?
Industry 12 min read

India Is Building at Scale. But Who’s Thinking About the Upkeep?


India’s infrastructure-led growth is creating a ripple effect that is steadily reshaping the cleaning ecosystem. While the Union Budget stops short of direct policy triggers, the scale of new assets — from airports to industrial hubs — is set to drive long-term demand for maintenance, mechanisation and automation. The opportunity is clear but gradual, shaped by cost, skills and adoption realities. Clean India Journal’s Manka Behl spoke to industry experts on how the sector is evolving alongside this shift.

The country’s Union Budget, presented earlier in the year by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, doubles down on a familiar ambition — build bigger, build faster, and build across sectors. From high-speed rail corridors and logistics networks to industrial clusters and urban expansion — the blueprint for growth is firmly anchored in infrastructure.

But as cranes rise and concrete spreads, a quieter, less visible layer of this growth story is beginning to come into focus: What happens after the build is complete?

For India’s cleaning ecosystem, the Budget does not offer direct policy triggers. Yet it sets in motion a chain reaction. Every airport terminal, warehouse, hospital, metro station or industrial hub being planned today becomes, eventually, a space that must be cleaned, maintained and managed — not occasionally, but continuously.

The result is a sector that sits just outside the spotlight of policy, but increasingly at the centre of execution.

Industry voices suggest that the opportunity is real, expanding and inevitable — but also gradual, uneven and shaped by on-ground realities of cost, scale, skills and adoption.

Think Upkeep

As infrastructure creation accelerates, a key theme emerging from the industry is the need to align construction with long-term upkeep.

“India’s strong push toward infrastructure creation through record capital expenditure is undoubtedly a positive step for economic growth. However, while we are building world-class transport networks, logistics hubs, airports, industrial parks, and urban infrastructure at an unprecedented pace, the conversation around long-term maintenance of hygiene and cleanliness at these locations is still evolving,” says Vedant Matta, Director-Sales of Charnock Equipments Pvt Ltd.

Vedant points out that globally, infrastructure planning integrates mechanised cleaning, facility management and predictive maintenance at the design stage. “In India, however, maintenance technologies are often introduced only after the asset becomes operational,” he says.

This, he notes, can lead to inefficiencies, higher costs and faster deterioration of public infrastructure. “As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset. This will not only extend the lifespan of assets but also ensure hygiene, safety, and sustainability in high-footfall environments such as airports, metro stations, hospitals, and public buildings,” adds Vedant.

“As the country expands its asset base, there is a growing need to embed modern cleaning technologies, smart facility management systems, and data-driven maintenance planning into infrastructure projects from the outset.”
— Vedant Matta

According to Sahil Jain, Managing Director of Columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt Ltd, the cleaning industry will not see an immediate spike, with most benefits expected to accrue over the long term. “The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment,” says Jain.

In the near term, increased public capital expenditure could provide indirect support. “When they increase the public capital expenditure, it basically also acts as an impetus to the private sector infrastructure development,” adds Sahil.

According to him, this expansion is expected to create demand for cleaning services and systems. “If you have more warehouses, you will obviously need scanning machines, cleaning manpower, cleaning systems in place,” he adds.

“The government’s focus on infrastructure development, civic spending and smart cities is expected to create opportunities over time. However, cleaning is not something which has come into direct focus as infrastructure projects will not generate immediate demand. But once they get commissioned, that will obviously add something to the industry segment.”
— Sahil Jain

Big Change

As infrastructure scales up, the cleaning ecosystem is being pushed to evolve alongside it.

Vedant highlights that India’s cleaning ecosystem has historically been labour-intensive, largely because labour availability made manual cleaning economically viable. However, the scale and complexity of infrastructure being created today — large airports, metro systems, industrial corridors, logistics parks, and mega manufacturing facilities — are fundamentally changing operational requirements.

“The Union Budget’s continued focus on infrastructure expansion and rising capital expenditure is reinforcing the creation of large, high-footfall public and industrial assets that demand far more efficient and standardised maintenance practices. In such environments, manual cleaning alone is no longer sufficient. Facility operators increasingly require mechanised cleaning equipment, automation, and productivity-driven solutions to maintain large areas efficiently while meeting higher standards of hygiene and safety,” says Vedant.

The Budget positions robotics and AI as “core productivity drivers”. According to Anil Sathe, Chief Growth Officer at Kinetiq RRobotics, adoption on the ground is evolving in phases. “The mid-market is still evaluating, but the shift from ‘cost’ to ‘capability’ has clearly begun. There is a marginal shift in the outlook towards robots as productivity and efficient tools. However, large enterprises in India have already moved from discussion mode to piloting robots to measuring productivity and efficiency gains,” says Anil.

He adds that with millennials in decision-making roles gradually handing over to Gen Z, “we will witness a paradigm shift in the use of AI and robotics in the coming years and this will be very fast”.

On India’s ambition to become an automation execution hub, Anil believes that the country is “on the cusp,” with talent and adaptability already in place. However, he emphasises that policy support, infrastructure consistency and hardware localisation will be critical to scaling that vision.

However, Anil emphasises that the ecosystem will need to adapt, with greater focus on application-level and technician-focused training to support large-scale deployment and maintenance of robotics. “We have the necessary skill set available in the country, and with proper government funding and initiatives, this can be realised into the workforce seamlessly,” he says while underlining the need to align training with real-world operational requirements.

“India is on the cusp and a boost due from government policy and initiatives would be a major step in the right direction. India has the talent and adaptability to become an automation execution hub.”
— Anil Sathe

Opening Avenues

As infrastructure expands and policy direction supports technology adoption, the shift toward mechanised and robotic solutions is becoming more visible — though it remains closely tied to economics and real-world viability.

Vedant notes that while the budget may not directly legislate mechanisation, its broader policy direction — supporting infrastructure growth, manufacturing and technology adoption — “creates the right ecosystem for this transition”. “As the scale of assets increases, the economics naturally begin to favour machine-assisted cleaning systems that improve productivity, reduce dependence on large labour pools, and ensure consistent quality,” he says.

For Charnock Equipments Pvt. Ltd., Vedant describes this as a “significant inflection point”, adding that it will accelerate the adoption of mechanised cleaning across sectors.

At the same time, Anil highlights that adoption — especially in robotics — is evolving alongside funding access and business models. “MSMEs will adopt and will see a shift towards automated solutions as more local and government funding and initiatives are made accessible to the robotics sector. The market will evolve through Capex-led investments, but the real trigger will come from flexible models such as pay-as-you-use (PAYU) and Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS),” he explains.

However, the transition is still strongly influenced by return on investment. While AI is already widely used in computing and design, Anil points out that robotic cleaning solutions still lag due to ROI constraints. “Once the price differential between mechanised and robotic solutions breaches approximately 40%, we will witness a shift towards robotic cleaning solutions. For wider adoption, robots need to deliver a clear 12–18-month payback. When the monthly cost aligns with 1.5–2 manpower equivalents, the decision becomes much easier,” adds Anil.

Early signals of this shift are already visible. “The budget has improved intent and enquiry levels. We are seeing more serious conversations, especially at leadership levels, though conversions still depend on ROI clarity. With infrastructure expanding, this shift towards AI and robotic solutions is beginning to reflect in sales funnels, supported by measurable data from proof-of-concept deployments across sectors,” says Anil.

Adoption is also likely to vary by sector. “Healthcare, food and pharma and education will lead adoption because hygiene is non-negotiable. In these environments, the value of consistency and compliance is immediate and measurable. At the same time, airports are already among the fastest and largest adopters of robotics, driven by large infrastructure players such as Adani, Grandhi Mallikarjuna Rao (GMR) and Gunupati Venkata Krishna Reddy (GVK),” says Anil.

Work In Progress

While the Union Budget continues to emphasise strengthening the country’s manufacturing ecosystem and industrial supply chains, industry voices suggest that the path toward localisation remains gradual and constrained by current market realities.

Vedant notes that the policy direction presents a significant opportunity for the professional cleaning equipment industry. “However, the current consumption volumes of mechanized cleaning machines in India do not justify the costs associated with producing completely indigenous equipment and are acting as a deterrent for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) like us to operate full scale end to end manufacturing units in India,” he says.

At present, certain high-end machines and critical components are still largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialized motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

For now, import dependence remains significant. Matta explains that certain high-end machines and critical components continue to be largely imported, particularly those involving advanced electronics, specialised motors, fleet management and automation technologies.

A similar reality exists in robotics. Shares Anil, “India still lacks the infrastructure and capabilities for mass-scale production of robotics… and we have very few indigenous products in the market.”

However, he highlights that the country has strong software capabilities and skilled manpower, which are currently playing a key role in adapting robotics solutions for the domestic market. “We are on the right track to take a big leap,” he adds.

At the same time, access to policy incentives remains uneven. Sahil points out that manufacturing incentives are largely designed for large-scale industries, particularly sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electronics. “For a country as big as India, the cleaning machines industry is still very small. They give PLIs and incentives to big companies and the others like us where investments are lower generally do not get a lot of incentives from the government,” he says, noting that such benefits are typically linked to investments running into thousands of crores and large-scale employment generation.

Matta, however, sees a long-term shift underway. As domestic demand becomes more predictable, he says, there will be increasing incentives for localisation, supply chain development and technology investment within India. “For us, the opportunity lies in gradually strengthening local manufacturing while combining global technology with Indian engineering and cost efficiencies,” he says.

Over time, he adds, this could help reduce dependence on imports and position India not just as a large consumer market, but also as a competitive manufacturing hub for professional cleaning equipment.

Next Phase

As the Budget continues to emphasise infrastructure, industrial expansion and services, industry experts stress on the combination of policy direction, workforce readiness and operating models that will shape the future of the cleaning and automation ecosystem.

Vedant feels that if one policy direction has the potential to significantly transform the professional cleaning industry, it is the government’s continued emphasis on large-scale infrastructure and industrial development through sustained capital expenditure. He adds that India’s flagship initiative, “Swacch Bharat Abhiyan,” should gradually move towards the use of mechanised cleaning equipment to ensure more efficient and effective maintenance of cleaning standards across the country.

Vedant also highlights the growing importance of economic clusters such as manufacturing zones, logistics parks and integrated commercial hubs. “The development of these clusters will create significant opportunities for automated and industrial cleaning equipment. These environments operate on the synergy of vast built-up areas, high operational intensity and continuous movement of goods and people, all of which require consistent and efficient maintenance,” he says.

Anil emphasises that the next phase of growth will be driven by partnerships rather than standalone product sales. “The future lies in partnerships — especially with integrated facility management and facility management companies — where robotics is embedded into service delivery rather than sold as standalone products,” he says.

Anil added that companies are increasingly adopting a multi-point go-to-market approach, combining direct and indirect sales while working closely with facility management firms, which he described as “a great catalyst in this growth process.”

At the same time, workforce capability remains central to this transition. Matta is of the strong view that training and skill development will be absolutely critical as the industry moves towards mechanisation.

The Budget’s focus on linking education to employment in service sectors is therefore a positive step, creating opportunities for an influx of fresh manpower and structured skill development programmes.

According to Vedant, these can help workers transition from manual roles to machine operators, supervisors and facility management professionals, improving not just efficiency but also safety and long-term career prospects. “Ultimately, the future of the professional cleaning industry in India will depend not only on advanced equipment, but also on a well-trained workforce capable of operating and maintaining these technologies effectively,” he says.

How India's regional airports are raising hygiene standards with smart facility management
Feature 6 min read

How India’s Regional Airports Are Raising Hygiene Standards with Smart Facility Management


As India’s aviation sector rapidly expands into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, maintaining high standards of airport hygiene has become both a logistical challenge and a strategic imperative. From robotic cleaning systems and sensor-based fixtures to manpower limitations and evolving compliance norms, the complexity of airport facility management is increasing with each takeoff.

This in-depth feature from Clean India Journal explores how regional airports like Ayodhya, Pune, Trichy, and Ahmedabad are redefining hygiene through a blend of technology, planning, and people power.

With case studies spanning automated cleaning, green design and agile staffing models, the report highlights how smart facility management is becoming mission-critical in ensuring safe, clean and passenger-ready terminals across the country.

As India’s aviation sector expands across metro and Tier II & III cities, the load on airport hygiene systems is more pronounced than ever.

From managing unpredictable crowd surges at Tier-2 airports to integrating robotics in sprawling terminals, the pain points are consistent: manpower limitations, delayed security clearances, misuse of sensor-based fixtures and a rising demand for cleanliness meeting compliance and comfort.

Through a cross-section of case studies from the fully automated systems of Ahmedabad to the people-led adaptability of Ayodhya, Clean India Journal interacts with airports as they redefine cleanliness to a strategic, real-time response system.

Redefining Airport Hygiene

Each of the stories in the following pages reveals a unique formula. Pune’s green-led master planning, Trichy’s scale-ready infrastructure, Ayodhya’s preparation mode, DTSS’s flexible manpower tactics and Tenon’s high-control zone delivery — all anchored in real-life operational pressures.

Together, they paint a larger picture of how India’s airports are not only responding to hygiene demands, but setting new benchmarks through design, technology and planning.

As passenger expectations rise and the spotlight on public hygiene sharpens, airport facility management is no longer invisible. It is central, visible and mission critical.

DTSS Puducherry hospital facility management transformation
Case Study 8 min read

DTSS: Dusting Away Old Practices, Elevating Patient Care


Dusters Total Solutions Services Pvt. Ltd. (DTSS), a leader in Integrated Facility Management (IFM), revolutionised Puducherry’s government hospitals and won the Swachh Bharat Award in just nine months. Clean India Journal spoke to CEO Sanjeev Kumar and his team to understand how the transformation was achieved.

“Clean, efficient and well-managed hospitals are not just about hygiene — they are about healing, dignity and trust.”

— Sanjeev Kumar

The strong odour of phenyl which greets patients on entering hospitals is a thing of the past. Nowadays, the chemicals used for critical cleaning in hospitals are anything but smelly, yet they achieve the required level of hygiene and sterilisation. This transformation of large private institutions and smaller government facilities has been a pleasant surprise.

DTSS achieved this in Puducherry through awareness and consistency, using videos and posters to bring about a significant change in hospitals. This change has led to moments where patients being discharged share their happiness with housekeeping staff through warm embraces and generous words of praise. This previously unheard-of change in behaviour is particularly significant in smaller cities across India.

Setting New Standards

The government of Puducherry took a major step in strengthening its public healthcare infrastructure with the construction of the Super Speciality Hospital for Women and Children in 2011. To sustain the hospital’s operational excellence and maintain high standards of hygiene and safety, the government adopted a progressive approach — outsourcing non-clinical functions to professional facility management specialists.

DTSS was awarded the contract in 2024 to manage non-clinical operations completely at two of Puducherry’s largest government hospitals — together spanning over 5 lakh sq. ft. and 1,100-plus beds.

The Rajiv Gandhi Government Women & Children Hospital (RGGW&CH) has 500 beds and is spread over approximately three lakh sq. ft., while the Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital & Post Graduate Institute (IGGGH&PGI) has 626 beds spread over approximately 2.4 lakh sq. ft.

DTSS transformed the hospital environments, setting a new benchmark for public healthcare facility management and earning the coveted Swachh Bharat Award for excellence in cleanliness and hygiene. And all this in just nine months.

Working With a Vision

The engagement was conceived as a comprehensive IFM partnership — integrating diverse non-clinical services under one accountable, technology-enabled system.

DTSS’s scope included:

  • Mechanised Cleaning & Housekeeping
  • Facility Engineering (MEP)
  • Linen & Laundry
  • Biomedical Waste Management
  • Diet Production & Patient Service
  • Front Desk Management
  • Security & Surveillance
  • Landscaping & Garden Maintenance

The project aimed at addressing core challenges within the system, including fragmented service delivery and multiple vendors, deferred maintenance and infrastructure risk, pressure concerning hygiene and infection risk, cost pressure and inefficient processes, regulatory and accreditation compliance issues, unsatisfactory patient and visitor experience and challenges with the legacy workforce.

“DTSS’s integrated approach brought in measurable improvement in hygiene, safety, and patient satisfaction — essential metrics for any modern healthcare facility,” said Sanjeev.

9 Pillars of Transformation

DTSS focused its efforts across nine strategic areas to deliver systemic improvement:

  • 1. Service Integration: Unified all non-clinical services under one management system.
  • 2. Preventive Maintenance: Established planned asset care programmes for all MEP systems.
  • 3. Advanced Cleaning Technologies: Introduced robotic floor cleaners and mechanised systems for consistent hygiene.
  • 4. Skilled Workforce: Deployed 450-plus trained personnel certified in hospital cleaning and infection control.
  • 5. Hygienic Diet & Laundry: Ensured hygienic, traceable, and patient-focused diet and linen services.
  • 6. Front Desk Experience: Professionalised patient reception and visitor management.
  • 7. Healing Ambience: Improved landscaping and interior greenery for a soothing environment.
  • 8. Key Performance Indicator Monitoring: Used measurable metrics to track service quality and compliance.
  • 9. Digital Enablement: Integrated CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) software for real-time monitoring and reporting.

Tangible Outcomes Delivered

The transformation quickly yielded clear results, with the most significant improvement being in infection control and hygiene standards. There was also:

  • A reduction in the average patient stay and improved operational reliability.
  • Enhanced patient and visitor satisfaction due to visible cleanliness and ambience.
  • Integrated services that led to cost savings and better accountability.
  • Digital dashboards that enabled transparent governance and regulatory compliance.
  • Full alignment with the Swachh Bharat Mission’s vision for cleaner healthcare institutions.

Value Additions

DTSS’s model extended beyond optimising hospital operations — it strengthened the entire healthcare ecosystem.

For instance, maternity wards often presented challenges due to body discharge from the birthing process. Compounding this, the disposal of sanitary napkins by flushing them in toilets frequently caused clogging and added to unhygienic conditions for new mothers and infants.

This unsanitary practice has been slowly rooted out with constant displays of videos and posters to patients and visitors alike on the dangers of this method of disposal. The fact that the housekeeping team is burdened with the removal, cleaning and disposal of used sanitary napkins is driven home constantly to sensitise all within the hospital walls.

Let’s take a look at the value-adds:

1. Patient-Centric Outcomes

  • Enhanced healing environment through cleaner, safer spaces that reduce HAI risks.
  • Improved patient comfort and satisfaction through well-coordinated support services.

2. Operational & Administrative Efficiency

  • Reduced management complexity with a single-point IFM partner.
  • CAFM dashboards provided real-time visibility into performance metrics and compliance.
  • Optimised resource utilisation lowered operational costs without compromising quality.

3. Compliance & Accreditation Readiness

  • Strengthened adherence to NABH, Infection Control, and Biomedical Waste Management standards.
  • Continuous internal audits improved readiness for external inspections and accreditations.

4. Workforce Empowerment & Local Employment

  • Over 450 local employees were upskilled in hospital hygiene, infection control and biomedical waste handling.
  • Training and certification programmes improved workforce retention and employability within the healthcare services sector.

5. Environmental Sustainability

  • Adoption of green cleaning chemicals, energy-efficient tools, and responsible waste segregation.
  • Reinforced the government’s commitment to sustainable public health infrastructure.

6. Public Health & Community Confidence

  • Cleaner and well-managed hospitals strengthened public confidence in government healthcare services.
  • The Puducherry IFM model now serves as a replicable framework for other states to modernise public hospitals through PPP-driven solutions.

Recognition and Awards

This remarkable transformation was nationally recognised when both hospitals — RGGW&CH and IGGGH&PGI — were awarded the Swachh Bharat Award for excellence in hospital hygiene and sustainable facility management.

Today, the organisation serves 100-plus hospitals across India, including Manipal Hospitals, Apollo Hospitals, Bombay Hospital, Indraprastha Medical Corporation, and Tata Medical Trust, continuing its mission to deliver safe, sustainable and patient-centric healthcare environments nationwide.

“Clean, efficient and well-managed hospitals are not just about hygiene — they are about healing, dignity and trust. DTSS’s work in Puducherry proves that public healthcare can be managed to a high standard,” added Sanjeev.

Award recipients group photo at the CREFM Masterstroke Awards, Bombay Exhibition Centre
Awards 5 min read

Celebrating Excellence at CREFM Masterstroke Awards


The air crackled with excitement at the 21st Clean India Show, where a prestigious gathering of corporate professionals, industry leaders and dignitaries descended to attend the CREFM Masterstroke Awards at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. More than 15 of these coveted awards were presented to honour commendable achievements across three segments.

The event, organised by VIS Group and Messe Frankfurt and powered by Clean India Journal, saw intense competition, particularly in the Sustainability Leader of the Year and Champion of the Year categories, which received the highest number of entries. Due to the high calibre of submissions, jury's choice and special awards were instituted to recognise more well-deserving winners.

The CREFM Masterstroke Awards are unique as they focus on the recognition of successful operational models rather than just general performance. They aim to identify and honour the successful models adopted by service providers and FM professionals, celebrating those who are leveraging innovative products, solutions and processes to create a lasting impact.

Climbing mountains in sustainability

Our applicants have climbed mountains in the sustainability category. A few notable mentions are:

Team Prakriti from Sasken Technologies Ltd has achieved a commendable 86% reduction in GHG emissions. Beyond operations, their scalable initiatives, like the Kaizen engagement framework and the digitisation of grassroots women's empowerment programmes with SEWA, are notably significant.

Dusters Total Solutions Services Pvt Ltd achieved measurable environmental results. In FY 2024–25, the company achieved significant milestones, as below:

  • Scope 2 emissions reduced from 414.99 tCO₂e to 395.70 tCO₂e.
  • Scope 3 emissions reduced from 1,343.18 tCO₂e to 1,298.31 tCO₂e.
  • Continuous improvement in energy efficiency, notably achieving 25% energy savings at the DCW Thoothukudi site through HVAC system optimisation.
  • Formal adoption of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), committing to a Net-Zero Carbon goal by 2040.
  • Reporting aligned with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) frameworks.

World Trade Centre – Kochi, managed by Brigade Group, has initiated green energy power procurement from 2024 from KINESCO for common areas, which is around 3.3 lakh kWh per month. They quantified a lot of their sustainable initiatives; their total water savings per year with the usage of waterless urinals is 2,340 KL.

The jury

The esteemed panel of jury included Dilip Lalwani, who has served over 25 years at Sodexo India and in the healthcare and aviation industries previously; Pallavi Chaudhari, who comes with a distinguished industry career and is currently a respected academic leader at DY Patil Deemed to be University; Prof Dr Wilson Lukose, who brings over 28 years of academic and industry expertise and is currently principal in-charge at Bharati Vidyapeeth College of Hotel & Tourism Studies; and Lt Col Navinder Narang, distinguished veteran, corporate leader and acclaimed author, having served in senior leadership roles within the ICICI group.

Clean India Journal extends its hearty congratulations once again to all the winners and participants of the CREFM Masterstroke Awards.

The winners

Champion of the Year (FM Service Provider)

  • Winner: Compass Group – Support Services
  • Runner-up 1: Tenon FM
  • Runner-up 2: BVG India
  • Runner-up 3: Unify FM Pvt Ltd
  • Jury's Choice: PSM Facility & Facile Facility Management

Champion of the Year (FM Professional)

  • Winner: Pranay Thakar – Adani Group
  • Runner-up: Harshalata Mishra – Jio World Centre
  • Jury's Choice: Oliver Andrew – TCS Ltd

Sustainability Leader of the Year (FM Service Provider)

  • Winner: World Trade Center – Kochi
  • Runner-up 1: Sasken Technologies Ltd
  • Runner-up 2: Dusters Total Solutions Services Pvt Ltd

Sustainability Leader of the Year (FM Professional)

  • Winner: Abhishek Dole – Bajaj General Insurance Ltd
  • Runner-up: Sayantan Sinha – JMD Ltd
  • Special Award: Arulkumar U – My Home Constructions Pvt Ltd

Best Sustainable Model – Commercial Space

  • Winner: Wipro Limited (Coimbatore)
  • Runner-up: World Trade Center – Chennai
  • Jury's Choice: Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd
  • Special Award: OCS Group India

Fransiska Barla, housekeeping supervisor at Manipal Hospital, Ranchi
Profile 5 min read

From Ward Cleaning to Leading 150: Fransiska Barla's Journey of Growth


Fransiska Barla's rise from a housekeeping worker to supervising 150 staff in a Ranchi hospital is a story of grit and growth. With no formal training, she learned on the job and now leads with empathy and discipline, writes Manka Behl.

More than a decade ago, when Fransiska Barla left her village for Ranchi, she was looking for work that would help her family get through each day.

Before joining Manipal Hospital, she took up domestic work for about a month — sweeping, washing utensils and whatever came her way. "It was difficult in the beginning; I had never worked before this," said Fransiska.

In 2015, she joined Duster Total Solutions Services (DTSS), the facility management company responsible for the services at the hospital.

Experience teaches

"Initially, I began with the most basic responsibilities — cleaning clothes, women's washrooms. Over time, I moved to ward cleaning, learning each task step by step."

Fransiska learned everything on the job. From understanding hygiene protocols to handling cleaning chemicals in precise dilutions, her knowledge came from observation, practice and persistence. Today, she speaks of chemical compositions and cleaning techniques with clarity.

Fransiska's sincerity did not go unnoticed. "They liked my work." Referring to her seniors in DTSS — Sameer and Subodh Sir — she said: "They asked me if I would like to be a supervisor of the housekeeping team."

The transition, however, was not easy. "It was very difficult initially. I would cry too. But my seniors supported and encouraged me."

"If you scold, the workers' mind doesn't work. If you explain calmly, they understand."

Empathy, not authority

Fransiska's promotion to supervisor in 2019 marked more than a professional shift — it changed how the world addressed her, and how she saw herself.

She remembered being addressed as "Ma'am" very early, which felt unfamiliar. "When people suddenly started wishing me 'Good Morning Ma'am', it felt strange," she remembers. But over time, the hesitation gave way to comfort and eventually to pride.

Today, Fransiska oversees nearly 150 staff members, all women. Her day begins before her shift with checking attendance, assigning duties, conducting briefings, and ensuring every area is covered.

But what defines her leadership is not authority — it is empathy. "If someone does not do the work properly, I explain it with patience." She consciously avoids scolding. "If you scold, their mind does not work. If you explain calmly, they understand."

Her approach comes from experience — of having once been inexperienced, unsure and naïve.

Even as she manages a large team, she remains conscious of the limitations. "We are not very educated, but we try to gain knowledge through everyday experiences."

Lead by example

In a workforce where staff is all women, Fransiska's journey carries a deeper significance. She is not just managing teams — she is quietly setting an example.

Her message to other women is simple and grounded: work with sincerity, support your family, and don't hold yourself back.

Cleaning, for her, is not just routine — it is directly linked to the safety of the patients. "In a hospital, hygiene is most important. If it is not clean, patients can get infections."

Her understanding of cleanliness goes beyond surface-level — it is about ensuring that every space, from washrooms to wards, is maintained in a way that does not put patients at risk. "We are well aware of what cleaning agents to use and in what proportions. Different surfaces require different approaches, and we are mindful of that."

Among the many days that have passed in routine, one moment has stayed with her. During a round in a private ward, a patient noticed her work and appreciated the cleanliness of the premises. "I do not remember the patient's name, but I do remember his room number was 124. I felt very happy that day."

Family support

With parents and siblings to support, the responsibility rests entirely on her shoulders. "My family is very happy now."

Her income supports not just daily needs, but also her siblings' education — making her a key pillar in her family's progress.

Where work was never small

If there is one belief that defines her journey, it is this: dignity lies in how you approach your work. "Never consider work a burden," she says. "When you earn your own money, it feels good."

Fransiska sees this as the beginning. "I now aim at becoming an executive," she said.

Rossari Professional 10 years anniversary logo
Milestone 3 min read

Rossari Professional: Completing a Decade of Dedication


What started as a joint venture a decade ago has evolved into Rossari Professional, a fully owned subsidiary of Rossari Biotech Limited, a leading player in the cleaning industry. Clean India Journal catches up with Vanchinathan S, Head – Sales, SAARC, as they celebrate the 10th anniversary.

"We can reflect on ten years of innovation, excellence, and a commitment to creating sustainable cleaning solutions that bring joy to people's lives," says Vanchinathan, enumerating the various milestones Rossari Professional has achieved and its transition.

From humble beginnings to global success

Rossari Professional's dedication to research and development, coupled with our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, has allowed us to expand our reach across geographies, and our innovative cleaning solutions are trusted by our customers and associates.

Sustainable solutions for a greener future

We understand the importance of sustainability in today's world. Our products are not only effective in delivering cleanliness and hygiene but also environmentally friendly. Through continuous research, we have developed cutting-edge formulations that minimise the impact on our planet. From biodegradable ingredients to eco-friendly packaging, our commitment to a greener future is unwavering.

Innovation that ignites joy

One of the ways we add a touch of delight to cleaning is through our selection of fragrances. In addition to the aromatic offerings, we have developed smart cleaning solutions that simplify the entire process. Thus, combining passion for innovation with a deep understanding of customer needs, we have changed the game in the cleaning industry.

Empowering partnerships

Rossari Professional's success is rooted in strong partnerships. An extensive network of distributors, retailers, and customers has fostered collaborative relationships that fuel our growth. By listening to partners' needs and providing exceptional support, we have built a community that thrives on shared success.

Looking ahead to a bright future

As Rossari Professional celebrates its 10th anniversary, we think the journey is only beginning. With a clear vision for the future, we are expanding our product portfolio and embracing emerging technologies to remain at the forefront of innovation, ensuring that we shall continue to be a trusted name in cleaning for years to come.

Vanchinathan S, Head of Sales – SAARC, Rossari Professional
Partnership 3 min read

Rossari Professional Partners with Hako GmbH


In a significant development, Rossari Professional has partnered with Hako GmbH, a renowned leader in the field of cleaning machines and services. This collaboration promises to transform the landscape of cleaning solutions in India through technological innovation, enhanced service delivery, and a commitment to sustainable practices. The partnership positions both companies to meet the growing demands of various sectors, including healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing.

Rossari Professional's prowess in surface hygiene and cleaning chemicals, combined with Hako's advanced machinery, aims at integrating technologies into cleaning processes, allowing for increased efficiency and effectiveness. By adopting smart technologies, such as advanced sensors and automation, the cleaning process can be streamlined, resulting in substantial time savings and improved results.

Rossari Professional, known for its commitment to quality and innovation, can now leverage Hako's established expertise in producing high-performance cleaning equipment.

"Together, we can make new offerings that elevate cleaning standards across various sectors. By combining our expertise, we are not only enhancing the technology available but also ensuring that our clients receive superior service. Together, we are committed to delivering sustainable and effective cleaning solutions that meet the highest standards."
— Vanchinathan S, Head of Sales – SAARC

Through the partnership, they plan to introduce eco-friendly cleaning solutions that minimise water and energy consumption while utilising biodegradable chemicals, aligning with global green initiatives.

Hako's lineup includes the Scrubmaster and Sweepmaster series, which incorporate state-of-the-art features designed for optimum effectiveness and ease of use.

Hako Scrubmaster and Sweepmaster series

The Hako Scrubmaster and Sweepmaster series represent the pinnacle of modern cleaning technology. Here are some notable features:

Scrubmaster series

  • Efficient cleaning: equipped with advanced scrubbing technology that ensures deep cleaning of all surfaces, reducing labour costs and time.
  • Intelligent water management: this feature optimises water usage, reducing waste and environmental impact.
  • User-friendly control panel: designed to simplify operations, enabling quick adjustments, and making the machines easy to operate for all users.
  • Compact design: perfect for navigating narrow spaces, making them ideal for various environments, including hotels, hospitals, and commercial spaces.

Sweepmaster series

  • Powerful suction: these machines effectively pick up debris from various surfaces, ensuring a thorough clean without missing a spot.
  • Versatile applications: suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making it an ideal choice for municipalities and large facilities like warehouses.
  • Ergonomic design: designed for comfort and reduced operator fatigue, enhancing productivity during operation.
  • Robust build quality: engineered to withstand rigorous daily use while delivering consistent performance over time.

Industrial cleaning chemicals and floor scrubbing equipment in a facility
Chemicals 8 min read

How To Decide on the Chemicals to Feed Your Equipment?


Not all cleaning chemicals are created equally, especially when it comes to protecting your equipment. Choosing the wrong solution can lead to corrosion, foaming, seal damage or even complete machine failure. This guide will help you evaluate which chemicals are safe, effective, and compatible with your floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, and other industrial cleaning machines.

Enzyme-based solutions: decoding what is truly sustainable

Kshitiz Chaudhary, Founder & MD, Cizar Hygienecare Pvt Ltd

When evaluating enzyme-based cleaning solutions, buyers should start by closely examining the ingredients. A genuinely sustainable product should use biodegradable, non-toxic components, free from harsh chemicals, and pH is a factor when you can understand if it is safe or not. There could be the claim that a cleaning chemical is enzyme-based, hence considered an eco-friendly cleaning chemical, but you can use enzymes to enhance the efficacy of your present toxic chemical-based cleaning chemicals. Buyers should look for full ingredient disclosure.

Beyond ingredients, efficacy and dilution are where enzyme-based products distinguish themselves. A good formulation will work effectively at high dilutions, reducing both cost-in-use and packaging waste and environmental impact.

Additionally, the contact time required for action should align with the intended application — fast-acting for daily cleaning, longer dwell times for deep cleaning or organic digestion. In sum, enzyme cleaners can offer powerful, sustainable alternatives to traditional chemicals when chosen based on transparent formulation, proven performance, and responsible use recommendations.

Choosing equipment-compatible chemical solutions

Sahil Jain, Managing Director, columbus Cleaning Machines Pvt Ltd

Certain chemical solutions, while effective at cleaning, can inadvertently damage cleaning equipment if not chosen carefully. Harsh acids and bases — such as hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide — can corrode steel and degrade seals, leading to premature equipment failure. Strong oxidisers like hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, or bleach may deteriorate plastics, rubber components, and sensitive fittings if not properly rinsed.

Solvent-based degreasers, often used to remove oily residues, can be particularly aggressive — drying out gaskets, softening tubing, or affecting pump seals. Even alcohols like isopropanol, though commonly used, can weaken machines over time. These risks highlight the need to balance cleaning power with chemical compatibility to avoid compromising equipment performance.

Also, for particularly challenging or aggressive environments, we always suggest choosing the right SOPs along with specific machines like stainless steel chassis or oil-resistant squeegees and rubber guards.

On the other hand, certain formulations can help maintain and even extend the life of cleaning equipment. Neutral-pH detergents and low-residue disinfectants are generally safer for internal components and reduce the risk of buildup or clogging. Degreasers, often water-based or emulsifying types, offer strong cleaning action for oily surfaces without the material damage associated with harsher solvents. Anti-foaming agents, when incorporated into cleaning solutions, also play a crucial role by preventing excessive foam generation that can disrupt sensors, or cause suction motors to fail.

Selecting cleaning agents with both performance and material safety in mind ensures operational reliability and extends the service life of critical cleaning equipment. We always advise customers to perform small-scale compatibility and efficacy tests before full-scale implementation, especially when using a new chemical or cleaning a new material.

Preserving equipment in critical environments

Saleel Kodambadan, Sr Manager – Training & Business Operations (Kerala), Tennant Company

When evaluating chemical solutions for critical area cleaning, it is essential to choose products that do not compromise the performance or longevity of cleaning equipment. Chemicals should be tested and proven non-reactive with sensitive internal components like seals, pumps, tanks, spray nozzles, and dosing systems. This is especially important for machines that rely on automated chemical dosing, where the viscosity and concentration of the solution must remain consistent to ensure accurate delivery. Using incompatible chemicals can lead to equipment breakdowns, inaccurate dosing, clogging, or even void warranties.

Equally important is choosing low-foam, non-corrosive, and residue-free formulations that meet hygiene and environmental standards. In critical environments such as pharmaceutical cleanrooms, hospitals, and food processing units, these solutions must leave no films or residues that could affect sterility or compliance.

Choose chemicals certified by recognised agencies like NSF, CE, or REACH, and aligned with cGMP, HACCP, or ISO cleanroom classifications. Most importantly, ensure they come with documented compatibility for specific equipment types — such as floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners, or high-pressure washers — to maintain operational efficiency and support compliance goals.

Understanding green chemistry and certification

Sandhya Shrivastava, PhD, Director, Bhavan's Research Center; Retd Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Bhavan's College

Green chemicals, also known as environmentally friendly or sustainable chemicals, are substances designed to minimise harm to human health and the environment, as these aim to reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous substances during the design, manufacture, and application of chemical products. Their relevance is growing rapidly, in almost all sectors, as the general public, industry, and regulatory bodies are getting more concerned and cautious about environmental safety and sustainability.

Though there are multiple areas where green chemicals are being used, there is a focused approach for using green chemicals in the areas of cleaning and disinfection, as most of the currently used chemicals are harsh, contributing not only to pollutants, but also leading to the development of antimicrobial resistance.

Key features

  1. Non-toxic or low toxicity, biodegradable: traditional cleaning agents such as bleach, ammonia and phenols are being replaced by biodegradable actives, such as hydrogen peroxide, organic acids (citric, lactic or acetic), enzymes (proteases, amylases, lipases) and plant-based surfactants (coconut, corn-derived).
  2. Environmental footprint reduction: green chemicals degrade rapidly in the natural environment, and bioaccumulation and residual toxicity for aquatic life is minimal. Chemical burden in wastewater is reduced. The rate of development of resistance to antimicrobial agents is also lowered.
  3. Use of solvent-free or benign solvent systems: using water-based or green solvents like ethanol, glycerol or ethyl lactate, as against chlorinated or petrochemical-based agents.
  4. Compliance and certifications: products that follow sustainable cleaning chemistry principles are often certified under BIS Eco Mark (India), ECOCERT (Europe), US EPA Safer Choice (USA), and others.
  5. Limitations of using green chemicals: higher cost (H₂O₂ versus phenolics), lesser efficacy (less potent, slow-acting), shorter shelf life (as they are more sensitive to temperature, light or contamination), and standardisation and certification challenges.

Transitioning to sustainable cleaning options for a microbiology laboratory: considering the nature of operations, a microbiology lab requires continuous cleaning and disinfection. Thus, a transition to green chemicals will lead to:

  • Reduction in environmental footprint: green disinfectants (like hydrogen peroxide or plant-based quats) to replace harsher compounds like glutaraldehyde or chlorine-based agents.
  • Use of chemicals that degrade more readily, simplifying downstream waste treatment.
  • Improved safety for staff, thus helping with alignment with biosafety and regulatory requirements.
  • Alignment with ESG goals and sustainability mandates.

In conclusion, with numerous research laboratories and industries working on green chemicals, integration of green cleaning chemicals in all walks of life is a practical and ethical step toward safer, more sustainable practice for meeting the one-health objective. While initial adoption may require planning and investment, the long-term benefits — safer workspaces, regulatory compliance, and reduced environmental footprint — make the transition both necessary and worthwhile. With increasing awareness and the growing availability of certified products in India, now is the ideal time for creating awareness and for institutions to embrace green chemistry.

Prioritising ingredients to align with sustainability

Vanchinathan Sivaswamy, Head – Sales, SAARC, Rossari Professional

When evaluating cleaning chemicals for sustainability, we prioritise ingredients and formulations that align with eco-friendly and health-conscious standards. Here are the key points we consider:

  1. Biodegradable ingredients: our formulations incorporate ingredients that break down naturally and quickly in the environment, minimising ecological impact.
  2. Non-toxic composition: we ensure our cleaning chemicals are free from harmful substances such as phosphates, chlorine, ammonia, VOCs and synthetic fragrances, promoting safety for both users and ecosystems.
  3. Use of renewable and natural raw materials: Rossari Professional emphasises sourcing ingredients derived from renewable resources, reducing dependency on petrochemical-based components and supporting sustainable supply chains.
  4. Elimination of hazardous chemicals: our products are formulated to exclude persistent and hazardous substances, adhering to global safety and environmental standards.
  5. Low VOC emissions: we develop products with low or zero VOC content to improve indoor air quality and reduce atmospheric pollution.
  6. Certifications and eco-labels: our products often carry recognised sustainability certifications like Green Seal, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility.
  7. Concentrated formulations and eco-friendly packaging: we focus on creating concentrated formulas that reduce packaging waste and transportation footprint, paired with recyclable and eco-conscious packaging options.
  8. Fragrance and dye-free options: to promote health and environmental safety, many of our cleaning solutions are fragrance-free or utilise natural scents, avoiding synthetic dyes and fragrances.

Vanchinathan Sivaswamy, Head – Sales, SAAR, Rossari Professional
Hygiene 3 min read

Rossari Professional: Integrated Hygiene Solutions for Cleaner, Safer, Smarter


Rossari Professional is built on one clear belief — modern enterprises deserve hygiene systems that are reliable, efficient, and ready to perform at scale. Our portfolio is designed as a complete ecosystem that strengthens facility operations across hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, retail chains, corporate offices, and institutional environments.

At the core of our offering is Ross, our specialised housekeeping range. These cleaning and floor-care formulations deliver consistent results for daily upkeep as well as intensive maintenance, ensuring spotless surfaces and fresh, well-maintained spaces across hotels, campuses, commercial buildings, and industrial sites.

For kitchen hygiene, Kico brings food-safe dishwashing, degreasing, and sanitisation solutions that keep professional kitchens compliant, safe, and efficient. It supports everything from restaurants and cloud kitchens to industrial canteens and hotel food production areas.

Our laundry care system, Osmo, is engineered for high-volume performance. With detergents, softeners, stain removers, and system-based wash programmes, Osmo ensures fabric longevity, hygiene, and bright results for hospitals, hotels, and commercial laundries.

In healthcare and infection-sensitive zones, Dr Nanoxa provides targeted infection control solutions. These disinfectants and sanitisers are precisely developed for frequent use, helping hospitals, clinics, labs, and public spaces strengthen their infection prevention protocols.

"At Rossari Professional, we go beyond supplying products. We work as strategic partners — constantly revisiting needs, evolving solutions, and ensuring consistency across every touchpoint. Our system-driven hygiene ecosystem empowers organisations to operate with confidence, efficiency, and sustainability at scale."
— Vanchinathan S, Head – Sales, SAAR

For retail and B2B supply channels, Proclear offers consumer-friendly and bulk hygiene products that bring commercial-grade cleaning to households, offices, grocery stores, and hygiene retail chains.

Under paper products, Concord and Greenworld supply durable tissues, dispensers, and bulk hygiene essentials that balance quality with sustainability — ideal for institutions with high daily consumption.

To elevate ambience, our Airoseal fragrance range delivers sophisticated, long-lasting air-care for hotels, washrooms, corporate environments, and lounges.

Supporting daily freshness and packaging hygiene, Freshee, our aluminium range, includes rolls, containers, and food-grade packaging widely used in food service, catering, and home applications.

Our extensive mops, tools and equipment category equips housekeeping teams with ergonomic, durable, and performance-driven tools that simplify maintenance in large and complex facilities.

Strengthening sustainability goals, Naturesani waterless and odourless urinal bowls eliminate flush dependency and washroom odour, making them ideal for high-footfall public and commercial environments.

Across categories, Rossari Professional integrates chemistry, tools, and system-driven processes to deliver hygiene with consistency and sustainability — helping organisations maintain cleaner, safer, and more efficient environments.

Diversey Shield Program certification for enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols
Hygiene 3 min read

Diversey India Hygiene Pvt Ltd – Shield Program


As we get ready for the "New Normal", it is of utmost importance to reassure your customers, guests and staff that hygiene protocols are put in place and are consistently implemented. According to McKinsey & Company's COVID-19 Consumer Pulse surveys, conducted globally between 15 and 21 June 2020, consumers want to see visible signs of cleaning and barriers when shopping in store.

The Diversey Shields are designed not only to effectively communicate, but also to help you make sure that your protocols surrounding enhanced cleaning and disinfection, infection prevention, and food safety are in line with World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (eCDC) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) guidance, and are monitored by Diversey® and Diversey Consulting™ experts.

Three shields to suit your application

  1. Clean and Ready 2020: ensures that enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols are in place.
  2. Covid19 Safety Program 2020: for overcoming coronavirus with strong measures for today, and readiness for the future.
  3. Food Safety Program 2020: focuses on food safety management systems.

How the programme is implemented

The Diversey Shield Program is implemented in four stages, starting from documents, products and tools through to completing an on-site verification audit. A Diversey representative helps complete requirements prior to the first audit. As per agreed timelines, the audit is conducted on Diversey iMAP, following which the discussion on the results and corrective actions is done. If required, a confirmation audit is done within a month.

This service is designed to elevate the quality of service, safety and care for guests and employees. Our solutions integrate products, processes, training and measurement systems to reduce risk, improve results and lower overall cost.

Once audits are cleared, a Diversey Shield kit is awarded to a property. This consists of a certificate that authorises a property to display Diversey Shields at the necessary locations.

Mechanised scrubber-drier cleaning a warehouse aisle between storage racks
Warehousing 5 min read

Diversey India's Kiran Rao Breaks Down and Simplifies Warehouse Cleaning


If one takes floors, walls, ceilings, racks, aisles and exteriors into account, the effective area to be cleaned in even a medium-sized warehouse will easily cross over one lakh square feet. Kiran Rao, Business Director, Building Care, Diversey India Hygiene Pvt Ltd, writes about how to assess a warehouse's cleaning needs, the challenges therein, and what equipment and chemicals should be used to overcome them.

Warehouse audits

Warehouse audit methodology is used to survey site specifications such as interiors, exterior, washroom, food court, periphery and high-touch point locations. Based on the area specifics, we assess further details such as:

  • Surface type: hard or soft floors.
  • Soil level: low, medium or high category.
  • Cleanable area: percentage of the area accessible for cleaning.
  • Cleaning task: wet mopping, auto scrubbing, spray and wipe application with recommended Taski/Suma products, or mechanised sweeping, vacuuming and high pressure jet application. All the above tasks are defined based on site operations, with daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly rotation.
  • Skill level: current understanding and skill level of the janitor to perform the job.
  • Existing infrastructure: current cleaning equipment, chemicals and accessories.

Mechanisation of cleaning is the way forward

Selection of compatible and right cleaning agents based on floor type is important to ensure floors are safe after usage, without damaging them. For example, Taski Spiral is a scientifically blended liquid detergent for cleaning floors and oily or greasy work areas.

Amongst cleaning equipment, auto scrubber-driers ensure powerful cleaning and drying results with no streak marks and prevent slippage after usage. Taski's patented Intelliflow system always ensures the right amount of cleaning solution on the floor and leads to significant water savings.

Spray and wipe application: microfibre dusters absorb five times their own weight, and can be used in both dry and wet application — for example, for high touch point area disinfection.

Manual or mechanised sweeper machines: these work on the overthrow principle, and ensure there is no residual dust flying. A bulk waste flap installed in front of the brush helps pick up bulkier debris.

Warehouse aisle cleaning

Manoeuvrability between the racks and stacks poses a challenge during cleaning operations. It can be addressed through mechanised cleaning with micro ride-on scrubber-driers, mini walk-behind auto scrubber-driers, and sweeping application with walk-behind machines.

Taski Swingo 2100 micro ride-on scrubber-driers can manoeuvre through narrow lanes. They are an excellent option in congested areas due to their speed, small footprint, agility and large tank size. Taski Swingo 455 E is a walk-behind auto scrubber for narrow alleys and small areas.

Kobra is an efficient walk-behind sweeper ideal for medium sized areas, with greater manoeuvrability and ergonomics.

Rack cleaning

This is challenging because of the placement and array of SKUs. It can be addressed by vacuuming with a backpack vacuum cleaner, such as the battery operated Taski Aero BP, which gives excellent dry cleaning performance, a crevice nozzle, and a dusting brush which can be carried with machines to complete multiple jobs at the same time. It meets EHS compliance and the backpack weighs less than 6kg.

In case the area to be cleaned is not accessible with these machines, microfibre-based dusters with damp or dry application are recommended.

Wall and ceiling cleaning

Clean any high surface area first as the debris will fall to a lower level. Dust levels are usually high in lower areas. High areas that require cleaning in warehouses include heating and cooling ducts, tops of pallets, racks, windows and frames. Diversey telescopic poles can be used up to an 11 metre height with required accessories.

Goods stored versus choice of equipment and chemicals

Machine recommendations may not vary much based on the type of warehouse. The cleaning agent shall vary, depending upon the type of soil or floors. For example, pharma warehouses need a different medical-grade cleaning reagent, while agro-based warehouses should use food-grade agents without any fragrance. E-commerce sites use neutral cleaner or alkaline agents.

Mechanised sweepers such as the Rider 1201 battery operated sweeper or the Picobello manual sweeper are recommended where soils are dry or loose, and when wet application is not preferred. For peripheral areas, normal sweeping with a manual or mechanical sweeper is feasible. High pressure jets like the Danubio 150 Bar high pressure water jet machine are also used to remove stubborn stains.

Warehouse area versus cleaning equipment

  • Under 2,000 sq ft — washroom: wet cleaning and steam cleaning. Floor sweeping: dry mopping. Floor scrubbing: spray mopping. Periphery cleaning: not applicable.
  • 2,000–15,000 sq ft — washroom: wet cleaning and steam cleaning. Floor sweeping: semi-mechanised sweeping. Floor scrubbing: walk-behind machine scrubbing. Periphery cleaning: manual sweeper.
  • 15,000–50,000 sq ft — washroom: wet cleaning and steam cleaning. Floor sweeping: walk-behind machine sweeping. Floor scrubbing: ride-on machine scrubbing. Periphery cleaning: high pressure jet.
  • Over 50,000 sq ft — washroom: wet cleaning and steam cleaning. Floor sweeping: ride-on machine sweeping. Floor scrubbing: ride-on machine scrubbing. Periphery cleaning: high pressure jet.

Professional housekeeping staff carrying out cleaning and disinfection work
Interview 4 min read

Building Confidence into Cleaning


EMPERIA 1900™ – Hygiene Care, a division of Empire Industries Limited, a 124-year-old conglomerate with a repertoire of business interests and a legacy of trust, has made forays into the cleaning and hygiene industry. Sandeep Jain, Director & CEO of EMPERIA 1900, recounts his inspiring journey, from modest beginnings during the pandemic to remarkable growth in recent years.

What prompted the evolution from a vending solutions provider to a hygiene solutions brand strategist?

One of Empire Industries Limited's shining stars is Grabbit+: Premium Vending Solutions, which has not only revolutionised the vending industry in India but also paved the way for the emergence of EMPERIA 1900.

We recognised the scarcity of basic necessities during the pandemic and ventured into creating EMPERIA 1900 to offer innovative and effective hygiene care solutions. We realised the importance of safe and effective products to maintain hygiene, therefore all our products are carefully formulated to meet the highest standards of quality and safety. Our team of experts has years of experience in the hygiene care industry and is committed to providing exceptional customer service.

We not only provided vending services to essential organisations but also assisted institutions in maintaining health and hygiene. Our offerings include cleaning and disinfection solutions, degreasers, kitchen cleaning supplies, personal care products and a variety of other necessities.

What cleaning techniques do you employ, and what sets them apart?

As technology continues to shape industries, EMPERIA 1900 is poised to capitalise on this transformation, which is why one of the distinctive selling points of its vital housekeeping collection of products, i.e. the Volume Series and Kitchen Pro Series, i.e. K-Pro, is integrated with Smart Micellar Technology (SMT).

SMT is one of the most effective mechanisms for cleaning surfaces, as the micellar structure encapsulates soil particles, reducing the soil particles' interaction with the surface, and disintegrates into microscopic, fine particles as soon as the surface is rinsed. An aspect that is truly recognised is the meticulous attention to detail that goes into its comprehensive collection of products, ensuring efficacy and safety.

SMT sets a new standard for cleaning effectiveness. This cutting-edge approach leverages smart action techniques to deliver unparalleled cleaning and disinfecting results. This techno-enabled surfactant is smart enough for all stains, dirt and soil types.

Similarly, ARMSX™ – A Broad Spectrum Multipurpose Disinfectant, a highly concentrated cleaner and deodorant, was developed on 5th Generation Quaternary Ammonium Chemistry. This potent quaternary ammonium compound comprises cationic charge carrier molecules that help in easy application on surfaces, resulting in rapid and efficient disinfection.

What are your unique selling points, and how do you ensure compliance with the industry standards?

The goal is to be the preferred choice for hygiene solutions across diverse sectors like facility management, HORECA, hospitals, institutions, corporations, and industries.

Comprehensive training sessions are provided to the housekeeping staff, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain a clean and organised work environment.

As part of our commitment, we supply and install equipment like auto-dilution pumps, dispensers, and measuring cups, to automate certain processes and simplify operations. We offer product demonstrations showcasing our wide range of products.

Furthermore, we do a detailed analysis to discover any gaps or areas for development that require attention in order to maximise efficacy.

We maintain a rigorous quality control system throughout our processes, including validating high-quality ingredients, ensuring optimal formulation, and testing for stability. Our commitment extends to adhering to top industry standards in research, formulation, and manufacturing. We also conduct thorough performance trials and use high-grade, chemically inert polymers for packaging, ensuring safe transport and storage.

What are your growth and expansion plans for the next five years?

With a steadfast commitment to innovation, our plan is to continue shaping the hygiene care industry and capture a substantial market share in sectors like facility management, HORECA, hospitals, institutions, corporations, and industries.

This journey will be fuelled by a dedication to quality, innovation, and a customer-centric approach.

In a world that demands greater attention to hygiene and health, we stand tall in providing leading hygiene solutions and creating a healthier and safer world, which is both inspirational and impactful.

As we continue to embrace technology, foster innovation and serve society responsibly, the future looks brighter and cleaner under the banner of EMPERIA 1900.

Guided by our vision to improve public health and hygiene with innovative solutions and a customer-centric approach, we are dedicated to taking housekeeping professionals through a comprehensive training module that enables them to elevate their skills and maintain a clean and sanitised environment. These training modules can help optimise resource usage, leading to reduced consumption and lower costs. This would also educate them about safety measures, to maintain their well-being as well, therefore, in the near future, we are committed to training one million professionals at no cost.

Sandeep Jain, Director and CEO of Empire Industries Ltd – Hygiene Care
Interview 6 min read

Hygiene is More Than Cleanliness — It Paves Way for Sustainable Futures


Sandeep Jain, Director and CEO of Empire Industries Ltd – Hygiene Care, has been steering EMPERIA 1900 with a strong focus on sustainability and professional innovation. With decades of business experience, he believes hygiene must be seen not just as a cleaning process but as a foundation for healthier communities. In this interview, he shares his views on sustainability, awareness, innovation and the future of the hygiene sector.

Given the global emphasis on green chemicals and sustainability, how is your company adapting its product line to contribute to a greener future in the hygiene sector?

Viewing hygiene as the essential pillar of public health, we recognised that the mission is incomplete without sustainability at its core. Over the years, we have built a portfolio that includes broad-spectrum disinfectants, cleaning solutions for housekeeping and kitchens, as well as personal care products. Yet, I knew this journey could only be truly complete by embracing green chemistry, making sustainability the bridge that connects hygiene and public health for a safer, future-ready world.

This is why we introduced bioenzyme-based solutions. These work at a molecular level to break down organic matter, providing deep and long-lasting cleanliness. The challenge, of course, was in developing products that were not only effective but also affordable and stable. It took time to arrive at the right balance. We sought eco-friendly products that could match the performance of conventional chemicals without becoming inaccessible due to high costs. This ensures accessibility not just for premium organisations but also for businesses and institutions across the market, where being economical is key.

Our green range is now taking shape as the foundation for the future. These products are designed to perform consistently, last longer and minimise their environmental impact. My conviction is that true progress lies in uniting sustainability, affordability and professional-grade effectiveness.

"Awareness is as important as access to quality hygiene products — only when both go hand in hand, can we build a healthier, safer and more sustainable India."
— Sandeep Jain

How do you plan to expand your role beyond products to actively influence hygiene awareness and public health nationwide?

True change begins not just with great products, but with awareness and empowerment. I believe that education and training are just as essential as the solutions themselves. Across workplaces, the people who handle hygiene daily are often the most neglected — the housekeeping professionals. They are the ones mixing chemicals, cleaning floors, disinfecting washrooms, yet many of them have never been trained on safe handling or given proper protective equipment.

During the pandemic, the importance of hygiene became visible to everyone. Hand hygiene, infection control and surface cleaning were suddenly national priorities. What struck me most during that time was how vulnerable the cleaning staff were. Improper handling of chemicals, absence of protective gloves or masks and poor practices were not only endangering them but also increasing the risk of spreading infections.

This is why we launched structured training programmes. These cover how to use protective equipment, how to handle chemicals safely and how to follow hygiene practices that protect both the professional and the wider community. For me, this is more than a compliance exercise. It is about the dignity of housekeeping professionals and about ensuring that the people who work on the frontlines of hygiene are themselves safe and respected.

Our aim is to expand year on year, reaching more industries and institutions and creating a culture of hygiene awareness across the country. It is not only about keeping spaces clean, but also about building healthier communities.

What new initiatives are you implementing to prepare for future market opportunities?

The hygiene sector is constantly evolving and to stay relevant, we have to anticipate what the future will demand. One area where we have invested is packaging. We have introduced designs that meet the highest industry standards — chemically inert, high-grade polymers with balance indicators and high load-bearing strength. This makes handling, stacking and transportation safer and easier.

Another initiative is automation at the point of use. We have introduced dilution pumps, dispensers and measuring tools so that every solution is mixed at the correct ratio. This avoids the two common problems: overuse, which increases costs and underuse, which compromises cleaning effectiveness. It also makes life easier for housekeeping staff, who can focus more on the quality of work and less on guesswork with chemicals.

On the product side, our green bioenzyme range is expanding. We now have multipurpose cleaners, odour neutralisers, air fresheners and even waterless urinal solutions. At the same time, we are looking at sectors that are underserved when it comes to hygiene standards and tailoring solutions for them.

A major step ahead will be moving into the direct-to-consumer space. Until now, most of our work has been with institutions, but the need for sustainable, professional-grade hygiene is just as strong in households. By next year, we plan to make these solutions available for everyday consumers.

What unique strategies and value-added services does EMPERIA 1900 provide to differentiate itself while maintaining high standards of safety, sustainability and performance?

This is an industry where effectiveness, safety and compliance are non-negotiable. Many companies offer products with similar claims, so the real question is how you create value beyond the product. My approach has been to treat hygiene as an ecosystem rather than a single service or product.

We begin by studying the site in detail. The requirements of a hospital, for instance, are very different from those of a shopping mall or a factory. Seasonal variations, surface types and visitor footfall all play a role. Once we understand these dynamics, we design hygiene programmes that are specific to that site. These programmes optimise usage, improve efficiency and include measurable benchmarks for audits and compliance.

Equally important is training. If the people using the products are not confident or well-informed, the results will never match expectations. That is why we work closely with teams, training them on safe and efficient usage.

Our product development process is also rigorous. Every product goes through research, trials and performance checks to ensure it matches or exceeds professional standards. Even in packaging, we innovate to reduce waste and improve ease of use.

What differentiates us, in my opinion, is this holistic approach — combining science, training, safety and sustainability. With Empire Industries' legacy of more than a century, my goal is to take this strength forward by constantly innovating, especially in green chemistry. That is how we will continue to stay relevant and impactful in a very competitive landscape.

EMPERIA 1900 Annual National Meet with channel partners and stakeholders
Events 3 min read

A Convergence of Vision, Collaboration & Purpose


The EMPERIA 1900 Annual National Meet brought together a diverse ecosystem of stakeholders: channel partners, employees, media collaborators, and supply chain teams, from across the country. The event served as a powerful platform to reinforce collaboration, strengthen relationships, and align all stakeholders with the brand's long-term vision.

Central to the discussions was the vision of founder Mr Sandeep Jain of transforming EMPERIA 1900 into a well-being–driven organisation. This vision extends beyond products, focusing on the people who power the industry, especially cleaning and housekeeping staff. Initiatives such as 'Sparsh Life – A Hygiene Training Initiative' were showcased as structured programmes aimed at skill development, professional growth, and dignity of work, redefining the role of frontline hygiene professionals.

The unveiling of GREENVERSE, the brand's eco-conscious hygiene range, marked a significant milestone. Designed to deliver high-performance cleaning with a reduced environmental footprint, GREENVERSE reflects EMPERIA 1900's commitment to sustainability without compromise.

The event also celebrated excellence through a formal awards ceremony, recognising the contributions of individuals, channel partners and key collaborators. This moment of acknowledgment reinforced a culture of appreciation and long-term partnership.

Beyond the Event

The success of the Meet was reflected in the momentum it generated beyond the event itself. Channel partners responded with equal enthusiasm, leading to stronger collaboration and expanded business opportunities. The shared vision and clarity established during the meet enabled more strategic engagements and long-term alignment.

A Defining Step

The Meet was a defining moment that brought together strategy, people, and purpose. By aligning its ecosystem around innovation, sustainability, and human-centric growth, EMPERIA 1900 continues to strengthen its position as a forward-looking leader in the hygiene solutions space.

Diversey India press conference on 2024 growth plans
Industry News 8 min read

Diversey India shares growth plan for 2024


Diversey, a Solenis Company, has announced at a recent press conference its venture into the water treatment segment, alongside increasing its foothold in the cleaning and hygiene sector and a focus on innovation and sustainability to drive this growth plan.

Addressing the media, John Panichella, CEO, Solenis, said that globally an increasing growth trend is visible across four key parameters — water treatment, infection prevention, protection of food supply, and fibre-based packaging solutions — and that Solenis is set to capitalise on these trends with targeted initiatives.

"Solenis' priority for India in the next three to five years is to achieve a higher double-digit growth. This ambitious growth will be achieved through timely investments in R&D, new manufacturing plants, and key acquisitions," he said. "We expect that our expertise in fibre-based packaging solutions and opportunities in coating will play a significant role in driving the growth in India and globally."

Somer Gundogdu, President of Emerging Markets and TASKI, stated: "Amongst the emerging markets, India is one of the important markets for us where we have a differentiated market position. Adding to the growth trajectory is the expanding Indian economy, which will pave the way for us to scale the business significantly."

On the plans for launching new products in 2024, Brijesh Rathore, Vice President, South Asia (Diversey Institutional) and Global Strategic Accounts APAC, said: "With the fast-developing IT sector, there is a requirement for special floor cleaning chemicals, which is being developed by us."

"Solenis, about an $8 billion company, is driving to achieve 25 to 30% of its sales from new products less than five years old. We are investing in R&D at our global centres to drive technologies that solve customers' problems. This is our goal," added John.

"We are going to launch a new technology into this market. It is a concentrated liquid in a dissolvable pouch that can be dropped into a spray bottle — shake it, it dissolves and is ready to use. This one container can be used multiple times," he explained. This eliminates transportation challenges and large storage space requirements.

While hospitality will be the focus segment for Diversey, "the sector we are very excited about is healthcare. We are developing solutions to meet the needs of this sector," said Brijesh.

Emphasising the need to study hospital-acquired infection (HAI), Brijesh elaborated that HAI figures in India could vary from 7% to 88%. "This 88% who acquire infection at the hospital is the area we are focussing on, given our global expertise."

The plans are strong to pursue the "Presumer" vertical, focusing on enhancing asset life and the health of occupants.

"The biggest area where we have a very strong presence is the building service contractors, which is fast growing. With the manufacturing segments fast increasing in India, outsourcing to BSCs will increase too. This is another focus area for us," added Brijesh.

Brijesh also elaborated on India's growth story, emphasising Diversey's dedication to giving back to communities through initiatives like GARIMA, a skill development programme, and sustainability initiatives such as Soap for Hope™ and Linens for Life™, which repurpose discarded soaps and linen to reduce the carbon footprint and promote hygiene.

Swimming pool water maintenance and hygiene monitoring
Hygiene 8 min read

Diversey On How to Keep Swimming Pools Germ-Free


Pools are nowadays a desired amenity in housing societies and an attraction for health and wellness at luxury hotels. Samit Choudhary, National Head of Diversey Solenis, writes about keeping and maintaining swimming pools clean and free from dangerous bacteria.

However, pool maintenance has been a tough and complex job as many of the factors involved are dynamic in nature. Weather conditions, different types of users, the chances of chemical imbalance and the need for regular monitoring of water parameters all add to the complexity.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the chlorine level has to be maintained between 1–4ppm (parts per million) and the pH in the neutral range of 7–8.

Manual treatment of pool water and a lack of available technology in automation and specialty chemistry has held the industry back from managing pool facilities to the right standards.

The most common cause of pool-related outbreaks is Cryptosporidium (Crypto), a chlorine-resistant parasite. Other causes include Legionella and Pseudomonas, bacteria that can cause illnesses such as Legionnaires' disease and hot tub rash.

Between 2015 and 2019, the CDC reported 208 outbreaks linked to recreational water venues. These outbreaks resulted in over 3,600 cases of illness and 13 deaths during this period.

Diversey's Intellipool Solution

Diversey Solenis brings its globally successful Intellipool programme to India. Intellipool is an intelligent platform which works on sensing, detecting and acting in tandem with specialty chemicals. The system can adapt to the changing dimensions of weather, microbial load and pollution, and act with precision.

Features and benefits

  1. Intelligent system: no need for manual involvement to add chemicals, or for manual testing and measuring. Complete peace of mind can be achieved.
  2. IoT-based platform: monitoring and record keeping.
  3. Lower water intensity: less need for makeup water, helping facilities reduce water intake.
  4. Better and visually appealing pool.
  5. Good user experience.
  6. Health and safety.

ROSSARI PROFESSIONAL

Ross Street 2000E — Electric Road Sweeper

Book a demo

Power that redefines urban and industrial cleaning — 2200 mm of cleaning width, engineered for large-format space.

The Ross Street 2000E is an electric road sweeper built on a dedicated chassis with an integrated structure and a combined sweeping and suction system. It clears gravel, cans, fallen leaves and similar debris across wide open ground, and its 2200 mm cleaning width and high working efficiency make it the machine for large-format spaces — airports, docks, industrial estates, highways, townships, residential communities, schools and mega facilities.

Why Choose the Ross Street 2000E?

2200 mm cleaning width

An expansive sweeping path means fewer passes to cover the same ground — which is the whole economics of cleaning an apron, a dock or a highway shoulder rather than a warehouse aisle.

240 L hydraulic lifting bin

A large hopper that tips itself means longer runs between stops and no manual handling at the discharge point — the two things that usually break a cleaning cycle.

Combined sweeping and suction

Multi-roller brushes lift debris and the suction system takes it away in one action, so bulky litter and loose grit are handled by the same pass.

Reinforced chassis, automotive-grade tyres

Pneumatic tyres and a reinforced frame hold the machine stable across broken surfaces and challenging road conditions, where a solid-tyre indoor sweeper would struggle.

Product specifications
Product name
Ross Street 2000E
Machine type
Electric road sweeper, ride-on
Cleaning width
2200 mm
Garbage bin capacity
240 L, hydraulic lifting
Brush system
Multi-roller brush structure
Cleaning action
Combined sweeping and suction
Water system
Integrated high-pressure water system
Chassis
Dedicated chassis, integrated structure, reinforced
Tyres
Automotive-grade pneumatic
Application areas
  • Airports
  • Docks
  • Industrial estates
  • Highways
  • Townships
  • Residential communities
  • Schools
  • Mega facilities

Specifications as published by Rossari Professional. Configurations may vary by order.

Engineered for large-format spaces
Uninterrupted cleaning cycles, minimal manual intervention

On a large site the limit is rarely how well a sweeper cleans — it is how often the cycle has to stop. Emptying a small hopper, refilling water, working around a surface the machine cannot handle: each break costs more than the sweeping itself. The Ross Street 2000E is built to reduce those interruptions, pairing a self-tipping bin with multi-roller brushes and an onboard water system so a single operator can keep working.

Hydraulic lifting garbage bin

A 240 litre bin that raises and discharges under hydraulic power, so waste transfers into a skip or tipper without manual handling.

Multi-roller brush structure

Several brushes working together across the full 2200 mm width, so wide passes stay consistent rather than leaving strips behind at the edges.

Integrated high-pressure water system

Onboard water suppresses dust as the brushes work and lifts bonded soiling, which matters on industrial estates and haul routes where dry sweeping only redistributes the problem.

Ask us anything
Questions about the Ross Street 2000E

The Ross Street 2000E sweeps 2200 mm in one pass. On a large apron or a highway shoulder that width is the difference between finishing a shift and not — it is the machine's central design decision, and the reason it is specified for open ground rather than aisles.

Gravel, cans, fallen leaves and similar litter. The combined sweeping and suction system handles bulky items and loose grit in the same action, rather than needing a separate pass for each.

Large-format spaces: airports, docks, industrial estates, highways, townships and mega facilities, plus streets, residential communities and school campuses.

The common factor is open ground with room to run. Congested indoor sites are the Ross Street 1500E's territory.

Through a 240 litre hydraulic lifting garbage bin. The bin raises and discharges under its own power, so waste transfers directly into a skip or tipper without anyone shovelling it out.

Practically, that means longer runs between stops and no manual handling at the discharge point.

Yes. The 2000E is an electric road sweeper built on a dedicated chassis with an integrated structure.

Battery specification and run time depend on the configuration supplied — our team can confirm the figures for the variant that suits your duty cycle.

They solve different problems. The 1500E is purpose-built for controlled industrial environments — a fully enclosed operator cabin, advanced dust filtration and a compact turning radius for cement plants, coal facilities, warehouses and heavy manufacturing.

The 2000E trades that access for throughput. If the site is open and the priority is covering ground, the 2000E cleans more of it per shift.

Use the Book a Demo button to enquire. Rossari Professional can assess the site before purchase, advise on the right machine across the Street Series, and cover operator training, service and spares at handover.

ROSS STREET

ELLIPSE – Compact Street Sweeping Solution

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Compact, agile and built for cleaner public spaces

ROSS STREET ELLIPSE is a compact street sweeper designed to make outdoor and public-area cleaning more efficient. Highly manoeuvrable and agile in small spaces, it delivers effective sweeping and suction performance while remaining easy to operate and maintain. Its compact design and low-noise operation make it well suited to urban environments and public spaces.

Why Choose ROSS STREET ELLIPSE?

Exceptional manoeuvrability

Compact and agile, ROSS STREET ELLIPSE is designed to move efficiently through narrow streets, pathways and other areas where larger sweeping equipment may struggle.

Efficient outdoor cleaning

The sweeping and suction system helps remove dust and debris efficiently across a variety of outdoor surfaces and public spaces.

Compact & low-noise operation

Small in size and designed for quieter operation, the machine is well suited to environments where public comfort and accessibility matter.

Product specifications
Specification
Ross Ellipse E
Ross Ellipse S
Product type
Ellipse EElectric street sweeper
Ellipse SPetrol street sweeper
Hourly efficiency
Ellipse EUp to 7,500 m²/h
Ellipse SUp to 5,000 m²/h
Main brush sweeping width
Ellipse E600 mm
Ellipse S600 mm
With 1 side brush
Ellipse E970 mm
Ellipse S970 mm
With 2 side brushes
Ellipse E1,250 mm
Ellipse S1,250 mm
Hopper capacity
Ellipse E100 L
Ellipse S100 L
Maximum speed
Ellipse E5.9 km/h
Ellipse S5.9 km/h
Climbing ability
Ellipse E20%
Ellipse S20%
Water tank
Ellipse E15 L
Ellipse S15 L
Extra water tank
Ellipse E22 L
Ellipse S22 L
Power source
Ellipse E24 V AGM / lithium-ion
Ellipse SHonda 5.5 hp petrol

Specifications as listed in the Rossari Professional equipment brochure. Configurations may vary by order.

Engineered for urban cleaning
Smart street sweeping, made simple

ROSS STREET ELLIPSE combines compact dimensions, effective sweeping and suction performance, and easy operation to address the challenges of maintaining busy public and outdoor spaces. Designed to work efficiently in areas where accessibility and manoeuvrability are essential, it provides a practical solution for modern street and facility cleaning.

High-capacity collection

With a 100-litre hopper, the machine is designed to collect significant volumes of dust and debris during regular sweeping operations.

Flexible sweeping coverage

The sweeping system provides a 600 mm main brush width, extending up to 1,250 mm with two side brushes for wider cleaning coverage.

Dust control support

An integrated water tank and nozzle system support dust-control requirements during outdoor sweeping operations.

Ask us anything
Questions about ROSS STREET ELLIPSE

ROSS STREET ELLIPSE is designed for public and outdoor spaces, including historical centres, cycle paths, parks and public gardens. Rossari also states that it can work efficiently on grass.

Yes. Its compact design is specifically positioned around manoeuvrability and agility, including operation in smaller spaces.

The sweeping range can extend up to 1,250 mm with two side brushes, according to Rossari's equipment brochure. The main brush alone sweeps 600 mm, and 970 mm with a single side brush.

Both ROSS ELLIPSE variants listed in the Rossari brochure have a 100-litre hopper capacity.

Yes. The brochure lists ROSS ELLIPSE E as the electric version, powered by a 24 V AGM or lithium-ion system, while ROSS ELLIPSE S is listed with a Honda 5.5 hp petrol engine.

The electric variant is also the higher-output machine on paper, rated up to 7,500 m²/h against 5,000 m²/h for the petrol version.

Yes. Rossari specifically describes ROSS STREET ELLIPSE as being efficient on grass in addition to urban and public spaces.

Use the Book a Demo button to enquire about ROSS STREET ELLIPSE and discuss the most suitable configuration for your cleaning requirements.

ROSSARI PROFESSIONAL

Ross Street 1500E — Ride-On Floor Sweeper

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Industrial strength, compact control — enclosed-cabin sweeping for demanding controlled environments.

The Ross Street 1500E from Rossari Professional's Street Series is a ride-on floor sweeper built around a fully enclosed operator cabin, making it suited to harsh working environments — cold climates, flying sand and heavy airborne dust. An advanced dust filtration system, steel-formed chassis, intelligent safety controls and a compact turning radius allow it to operate safely and efficiently where conventional sweepers struggle. It is particularly well suited to coal mines, flour mills, cement plants, ceramic factories and furniture manufacturing.

Why Choose the Ross Street 1500E?

Fully enclosed operator cabin

Seals the operator away from airborne dust, grit and weather, so long shifts stay workable in environments that would otherwise force frequent breaks.

Advanced dust filtration

Captures fine particulate at the point of sweeping rather than redistributing it, which is what separates a sweeper from a dust spreader in cement and coal environments.

Compact turning radius

Works around plant, racking and stored material without repeated shunting, so aisles and bays get cleaned in a single pass rather than being skipped.

Steel-formed chassis

A rigid steel frame absorbs the vibration and impact loading of rough industrial floors, which is what protects the machine's service life in continuous heavy use.

Product specifications
Product name
Ross Street 1500E
Machine type
Ride-on floor sweeper, enclosed cabin
Operator cabin
Fully enclosed
Chassis
Steel-formed
Application areas
  • Coal mines
  • Flour mills
  • Cement plants
  • Ceramic factories
  • Furniture factories
  • Warehouses
Engineered for harsh environments
Control, safety and manoeuvrability in one compact platform

Sweeping in a cement plant or a coal facility is a different problem from sweeping a warehouse aisle. Abrasive dust shortens component life, poor visibility raises risk, and stored material leaves little room to turn. The Ross Street 1500E addresses all three at once — the operator is protected, the machine is aware of its surroundings, and its footprint stays small enough to work the spaces that actually need cleaning.

Intelligent safety controls

Operating around plant, vehicles and personnel means the machine has to be predictable. Built-in safety controls reduce the margin for operator error during routine work.

Ergonomic operator controls

Controls are laid out for sustained use rather than occasional use. Lower operator fatigue over a shift translates directly into more consistent coverage.

High manoeuvrability

A compact turning radius on a ride-on platform lets a single operator cover both open floor and constrained corners without switching to a walk-behind machine.

Ask us anything
Questions about the Ross Street 1500E

In a cement plant, coal facility or flour mill, the airborne load is the working condition, not an occasional event. An open-platform sweeper puts the operator directly in it for the length of a shift.

A sealed cabin separates the operator from that environment, which matters for two reasons: it protects long-term respiratory health, and it removes the practical reason shifts get cut short or areas get skipped.

Yes. The 1500E is built for industrial floor sweeping across both — plant floors, warehouse aisles, loading yards and site peripheries.

Where it earns its place is the transition between the two: one machine and one operator can cover internal and external areas without swapping equipment mid-shift.

Fine particulate is the hardest case for any sweeper, because a machine that agitates it without capturing it simply moves the problem into the air. The 1500E uses an advanced dust filtration system designed to retain fines rather than release them behind the machine.

Filter maintenance intervals depend on the site's dust load. In heavy-dust facilities, expect filter servicing to be a scheduled task rather than an occasional one — our team can advise on a schedule for your conditions.

The 1500E is the compact machine in the Street Series, built around a small turning radius specifically so a ride-on platform can work spaces that would otherwise need a walk-behind.

Exact clearance depends on your rack spacing and stored material. Share a site layout and we can confirm fit before you commit — or recommend the Ross Street 2000E instead if the site is large-format and open.

They solve different problems. The 2000E has a 2200 mm cleaning width and is engineered for large-format open space — airports, docks, highways, townships and mega facilities, where covering ground quickly is the priority.

The 1500E trades that width for access. If the site is congested, dusty and enclosed, the compact machine cleans more of it.

Controls are laid out for sustained daily use, so an experienced housekeeping or plant operator takes it up quickly. Rossari Professional provides operator training as part of deployment, covering safe operation, daily checks and hopper and filter routines.

Rossari Professional is a fully owned subsidiary of Rossari Biotech Limited, headquartered in Mumbai, with a nationwide network across industrial, hospitality, healthcare and facility management sectors.

Support covers site assessment before purchase, operator training at handover, and ongoing service and spares. Use the enquiry form to arrange a demonstration at your facility.

DIVERSEY

Washroom Hygiene – Tork & Soft Care

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Redefining hygiene through smart innovation

Washroom hygiene only works when the dispenser, the paper and the chemistry are considered together. Diversey brings its professional cleaning and disinfection systems alongside Tork — Essity’s smart dispensing, wiper and paper towel range — and Soft Care, its own skin and hand hygiene line. Deployed together they cover the washroom end to end, from surface cleaning through to the hand wash and the towel that follows it.

Why Choose the Tork & Soft Care Range?

End-to-end washroom coverage

Surface cleaning, hand hygiene, dispensing and paper handled as one system rather than four separate purchases that have to be made to work together on site.

Formulated around skin, not just cleaning

Soft Care covers alcohol rubs with added moisturisers, perfume-free antimicrobial washes and general-purpose soaps — because hands washed dozens of times a shift need different chemistry from a surface.

Smart, sustainable dispensing

Tork dispensing systems control consumption per use, which reduces waste and refill labour while keeping units stocked through peak footfall.

Product specifications
Range
Diversey washroom hygiene — Diversey systems, Tork dispensing and Soft Care skin care
Diversey
Global provider of commercial cleaning, sanitation and hygiene technologies, serving hospitality, healthcare and food service
Tork (by Essity)
Partner brand for smart washroom dispensing systems, industrial wipers, paper towels and napkins
Soft Care
Diversey’s dedicated skin care sub-brand, covering professional hand washes, alcohol rubs and shower gels
Soft Care Des E / Des E Extra
Alcohol-based hand sanitisers for waterless skin disinfection, with added moisturisers
Soft Care Plus H41
Antimicrobial, perfume-free hand wash suited to food service and healthcare environments
Soft Care Enhance / Star
General-purpose scented liquid hand soaps for frequent use in public buildings and offices
Dispensing systems
Portable wiping systems and roll dispensers combining Tork paper products with Diversey cleaning and disinfecting liquids
Facility hygiene
Jointly deployed to manage end-to-end surface cleaning and personal hand hygiene across commercial spaces
Application areas
Commercial restrooms, employee handwash stations, hospitality guest bathrooms, healthcare facilities, food service and public buildings
Three brands, one washroom
How Diversey, Tork and Soft Care work together

A washroom fails on the weakest link. Spotless surfaces mean little if the soap dries out hands until staff stop washing them, and the best hand wash in the world is wasted if the dispenser is empty by mid-afternoon. Pairing Diversey’s cleaning systems with Tork dispensing and Soft Care skin care closes that gap — each brand covering the part of the chain it is strongest at.

Diversey — cleaning & disinfection

Commercial cleaning, sanitation and hygiene technologies for hospitality, healthcare and food service — the surface and system layer of the washroom.

Tork — smart dispensing

Washroom dispensing systems, industrial wipers, paper towels and napkins from Essity, controlling consumption per use and cutting refill labour.

Soft Care — skin & hand hygiene

Professional hand washes, alcohol rubs and shower gels, formulated so repeated daily use protects skin rather than stripping it.

Ask us anything
Questions about the washroom hygiene range

Des E / Des E Extra are alcohol-based rubs for waterless disinfection, with moisturisers added because alcohol otherwise dries skin fast. Plus H41 is antimicrobial and perfume-free, which is what makes it appropriate for food service and healthcare. Enhance and Star are scented general-purpose soaps for public buildings and offices.

The perfume-free point matters more than it sounds: fragrance is a contamination risk near food and an irritant risk in clinical settings.

Because the dispenser and the liquid are one system, not two purchases. Portable wiping systems and roll dispensers are designed to combine Tork paper products with Diversey cleaning and disinfecting liquids in a single unit.

Bought separately you tend to end up with dispensers that do not fit the refills, or refills nobody reorders because they sit outside the main hygiene contract.

No. Alcohol rubs are for waterless disinfection between washes — useful where a basin is not to hand or where speed matters between tasks.

Where hands are visibly soiled, or after food handling, a hand wash is still required. Most sites run both: dispensers at the basin and rubs at entry points and workstations.

That is the specific problem the Soft Care range is built around. The line spans washes, rubs and shower gels formulated for repeated professional use, with moisturisers included in the alcohol products.

It matters operationally as well as personally: when soap is harsh, compliance drops, and hand hygiene protocols only work if people actually follow them through a full shift.

Controlled dispensing limits how much product leaves the unit per use, which cuts both consumption and the waste that comes from over-dispensing.

The second saving is labour. Fewer refill visits per week across a large site adds up quickly, and units are far less likely to run dry during peak footfall.

Yes. Diversey and Tork are jointly deployed in commercial spaces to manage end-to-end surface cleaning and personal hand hygiene, so the same system extends to kitchens, wards, production areas and back-of-house.

Industrial wipers and paper towels sit alongside the washroom range for exactly that reason.

Dispenser count, refill frequency and the right Soft Care variant all depend on footfall and the type of site, so a walkthrough gives a far more useful answer than a price list.

Use the Book a Demo button above and the Diversey team can survey your washrooms, recommend dispensing and skin care to match, and advise on refill scheduling.

DIVERSEY

Professional Cleaning – CREW, Sumabrite & Soft Care

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Professional cleaning across every space

Diversey’s Professional Cleaning portfolio divides industrial-strength performance into three dedicated tiers, so every zone of a facility is covered by a formulation built for it: CREW for housekeeping and facility care, Sumabrite for commercial kitchen care, and Soft Care for personal hygiene and skin protection. One portfolio, one supplier, and a consistent standard from the lobby through to the kitchen and the washroom.

Why Choose the Diversey Professional Cleaning Range?

Three tiers, one portfolio

Housekeeping, kitchen and personal care are handled by formulations built for each, rather than one general-purpose product stretched across jobs it was not designed for.

Concentrates that lower cost in use

Multi-purpose concentrates such as the Sumabrite 4-in-1 All Rounder cover several tasks from one pack, cutting both cost per litre and the number of SKUs a store room has to carry.

Industrial strength, professional grade

Built for commercial duty cycles — heavy grease, high-touch surfaces and repeated daily use — with material compatibility considered for stainless steel and aluminium.

Product specifications
Portfolio
Diversey Professional Cleaning — CREW, Sumabrite and Soft Care
CREW — purpose
General surface cleaning, floor maintenance and washroom hygiene
CREW — key formulations
All-purpose neutral cleaners, high-gloss marble polishes, furniture maintainers, stainless steel cleaners and toilet bowl disinfectants
CREW — where it is used
Lobbies, guest rooms and high-touch commercial surfaces
Sumabrite — purpose
Cutting through heavy grease, food soils and stubborn carbon deposits in food preparation zones
Sumabrite — key formulations
  • All Rounder concentrate 4-in-1
  • Also: heavy-duty degreasers, grill and oven cleaners
Sumabrite — where it is used
Restaurant kitchens and catering facilities; safe on stainless steel and aluminium
Soft Care — purpose
Safe, skin-friendly personal hygiene for staff and guests
Soft Care — key formulations
Mild liquid hand washes, nourishing skin cleansers and hygienic body care products
Soft Care — where it is used
Commercial restrooms, employee handwash stations and hospitality guest bathrooms
Application areas
Hospitality, food service and catering, healthcare, retail, offices, education and facility management contracts
The range, tier by tier
Three tiers, built for three different jobs

Most facilities buy general-purpose cleaner and then discover it is wrong for half the building — too harsh for hands, too mild for a fryer hood. Diversey splits the portfolio along the lines the work actually divides on, so a housekeeping trolley, a kitchen store and a washroom dispenser each carry the chemistry suited to them.

CREW — housekeeping & facility care

Neutral all-purpose cleaners, marble polishes, furniture maintainers, stainless steel cleaners and toilet bowl disinfectants for lobbies, guest rooms and high-touch surfaces.

Sumabrite — kitchen & food service care

Engineered for heavy grease, food soils and carbon deposits, including 4-in-1 concentrates that handle dishwashing, degreasing and floor or slab washing from one pack.

Soft Care — personal care & hygiene

Mild hand washes, nourishing skin cleansers and body care for restrooms, employee handwash stations and guest bathrooms — built around skin protection.

Ask us anything
Questions about the Professional Cleaning range

The split follows the work: CREW for housekeeping and facility care — lobbies, guest rooms, floors, washroom surfaces and high-touch points. Sumabrite for anything behind the kitchen door. Soft Care for hands and skin.

In practice a hotel will carry all three; a standalone office may only need CREW and Soft Care.

You can, but it usually costs more than it saves. A neutral all-purpose cleaner will not shift carbon deposits off a grill, and a kitchen degreaser is far too aggressive for repeated hand contact or a polished marble lobby floor.

The tiered approach exists because using the wrong chemistry either fails the job or damages the surface — and both end up more expensive than stocking the right product.

It is a 4-in-1 concentrate covering dishwashing, degreasing and floor or slab washing from a single pack. For a small kitchen that can mean one SKU in the store room instead of three or four.

It is formulated to be safe on stainless steel and aluminium, which is what makes it usable across both equipment and surfaces in the same area.

The Sumabrite range is tailored for restaurant kitchens and catering facilities, where stainless steel and aluminium are the dominant surfaces, and material compatibility is built into the formulations.

As with any professional chemical, follow the dilution stated on the pack and test on an inconspicuous area when introducing a product to an unfamiliar surface.

Yes — that is what it is designed for. The focus is skin-friendly personal hygiene rather than maximum cleaning strength, which matters when the same hands are washed dozens of times across a shift.

The range covers mild liquid hand washes, nourishing skin cleansers and hygienic body care, placed at commercial restrooms, employee handwash stations and guest bathrooms.

Much of the range is supplied as concentrate, which is where the cost saving sits: you pay for chemistry rather than water and freight, and dilute on site to the task.

Because concentrates only deliver that saving when dosed correctly, it is worth agreeing dilution ratios and training housekeeping staff at the point of switching over.

The right answer depends on your surface mix, kitchen load and washroom footfall, so a walkthrough is more useful than a quote against a list.

Use the Book a Demo button above and the Diversey team can review your zones, recommend the tiers and formats that fit, and advise on dilution and staff training.

DIVERSEY TASKI

TASKI Phantas – Compact Autonomous Robot

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Unlock the potential of automated cleaning — designed for smaller spaces

The TASKI Phantas is a compact multi-application robot that scrubs, vacuums and sweeps in a single machine, bringing automation to the smaller, more congested spaces larger robots cannot work in. With a 33 cm working width, 4.5+ hours of battery life and automated return to its charging station, it holds a consistent cleaning standard in restaurants, offices, retail units and healthcare areas where finding dedicated staff for 500–1,000 m² a day is increasingly difficult.

Why Choose the TASKI Phantas?

Three machines in one

Scrubbing, vacuuming and sweeping from a single unit — one robot covers jobs that would otherwise need separate equipment and separate passes.

Built for smaller spaces

At 54 × 44 cm with a 33 cm working width, it automates cleaning in restaurants, offices and retail units where a full-size robot simply will not fit.

4.5+ hours, then self-charges

A 40 Ah lithium-ion pack runs over four and a half hours and recharges in two, returning to its station automatically so cleaning continues without supervision.

Product specifications
Product name
TASKI Phantas
Type
Compact multi-application cleaning robot — scrubbing, vacuuming and sweeping
Dimensions (L × W × H)
54 × 44 × 62 cm  (21.3 × 17.3 × 24.4 in)
Weight
48 kg (106 lb)
Working width
33 cm (13 in)
Productivity
  • Maximum 700 m²/hr
  • Realistic, in service 200–400 m²/hr
Tank capacity
11 litres (2.9 gal)
Brush / suction power
1.5 m³ per minute
Battery
  • Capacity 40 Ah lithium-ion
  • Runtime 4.5 hours
  • Charging time 2 hours
Navigation system
LiDAR, 3D depth cameras, RGB camera, anti-drop and anti-collision sensors, with AI-powered obstacle avoidance
Mapping
Simple set-up with real-time auto-cover on a tablet PC
Connectivity & data
SIM card connection with online fleet and machine management. Data is held mostly on-device; cleaning performance and map coverage are sent to the cloud
Automated charging
Yes — automated return to charging point
Available SKUs
  • TASKI GS Phantas 1.2 9293373
  • TASKI GS Charging Station Phantas 9293374
Application areas
Restaurants and food service, offices, retail units, healthcare and long-term care, education and facility management contracts
Intelligent solutions
TASKI intelligent technology, built in

The Phantas runs on the same intelligent systems as the rest of the TASKI range — lithium-ion power, an intuitive touchscreen and HEPA filtration — combined with a navigation stack built around LiDAR, depth cameras and AI obstacle avoidance. Together they are what let an unsupervised machine work safely in occupied, congested spaces rather than only in empty ones.

IntelliPower

Lithium-ion batteries deliver consistent power across the full run and recharge fast enough to keep the machine in rotation.

IntelliTouch

An intuitive multifunctional touchscreen for mapping routes, scheduling runs and reading results without specialist training.

HEPA filtration

Captures fine particulate during operation, supporting improved indoor air quality alongside the floor result.

Ask us anything
Questions about the TASKI Phantas

Maximum productivity is 700 m² per hour, but the realistic figure in service is 200–400 m² per hour. The gap is normal for a compact robot: the maximum assumes clear, open floor, while real restaurants and offices have furniture, footfall and turns.

Plan around the realistic range. With 4.5 hours of runtime the machine comfortably covers the 500–1,000 m² daily areas it is designed for.

Yes — all three, from one unit. That is the main reason to choose the Phantas over a single-function robot: one machine and one schedule instead of separate equipment and separate passes.

Working width is 33 cm and the tank holds 11 litres, which is sized to complete a typical small-site run on a single fill.

The machine is 54 cm long, 44 cm wide and 62 cm high, weighing 48 kg. It was designed specifically for the smaller, more congested spaces that full-size robotic scrubbers cannot work in.

If your site has narrow aisles or tight furniture layouts, that footprint is the deciding factor — a site walkthrough will confirm it quickly.

The navigation stack combines LiDAR, 3D depth cameras, an RGB camera, anti-drop and anti-collision sensors, with AI-powered obstacle avoidance on top.

That combination is what allows it to work in occupied spaces during opening hours rather than only in an empty building after close.

Set-up is done on a tablet PC with real-time auto-cover, so the map builds as the machine moves rather than requiring a manual survey.

From there it connects over a SIM card for online fleet and machine management, including runtime and area-coverage analysis. Most data stays on-device; cleaning performance and map coverage are sent to the cloud.

Labour scarcity, mostly. It is genuinely difficult to recruit cleaning staff for just 500–1,000 m² a day, and the sector sees around 61% annual turnover, with a majority of building service contractors reporting difficulty finding personnel.

The intent is cobotic rather than replacement: the robot handles the repetitive floor work and frees your team for tasks that need judgement. The by-products are consistent cleaning quality and a better total cost of cleaning.

The system comprises the TASKI GS Phantas 1.2 (9293373) and the TASKI GS Charging Station Phantas (9293374).

Because realistic throughput depends so heavily on your layout, a site demonstration is the fastest way to get a dependable number. Use the Book a Demo button above and the team will arrange a walkthrough.

DIVERSEY TASKI

ECOBOT 50 Pro – Autonomous Cleaning Robot

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Unlock the potential of the automated scrubber drier

The TASKI ECOBOT 50 Pro is a state-of-the-art autonomous cleaning robot that scrubs and dries hard floors at up to 1,800 m² per hour without an operator at the controls. A full sensor array handles navigation and on-site safety, while the work and docking station gives the machine true autonomy — so floor cleaning can run around the clock and your team can be redeployed to higher-value work.

Why Choose the ECOBOT 50 Pro?

Up to 1,800 m² per hour

Scrubs and dries hard floors autonomously at commercial pace, cutting the labour cost of routine floor care and freeing staff for higher-priority tasks.

Sensor array for safe navigation

A sophisticated sensor array manages obstacle detection and route-finding, keeping operators, guests and the public safe while the machine is working.

Full autonomy, round the clock

The work and docking station handles charging and servicing between runs, so cleaning can take place 24/7 rather than only within a staffed window.

Product specifications
Product name
TASKI ECOBOT 50 Pro
Type
Autonomous scrubber drier (cleaning robot)
Cleaning productivity
  • Scrub and dry, hard floors Up to 1,800 m² per hour
Navigation
Full sensor array for autonomous route-finding, obstacle detection and on-site safety
Power
IntelliPower lithium-ion battery system (B Li-Ion)
Autonomy
Enabled by the TASKI work and docking station for unattended charging between runs
Sustainability
Water recycling to reduce consumption per cleaning cycle
Available SKUs
  • TASKI GS Ecobot 50 v4.1 7525455
  • TASKI GS Workstation 50 7525334
  • TASKI GS Charging Station 40/50 7525335
Application areas
Large hard-floor environments in retail, healthcare, hospitality, education, transport hubs, manufacturing and facility management
Intelligent solutions
TASKI intelligent technology, built in

The ECOBOT 50 Pro is built on the same intelligent systems that run across the TASKI machine range — lithium-ion power, an intuitive touchscreen interface and HEPA filtration. Together they are what make an unattended machine practical to own: predictable runtime, a control layer any supervisor can pick up, and cleaner air in the spaces it works in.

IntelliPower

Lithium-ion batteries deliver consistent power across the full run and recharge fast enough to keep the machine in rotation.

IntelliTouch

An intuitive multifunctional touchscreen for mapping routes, scheduling runs and reading results without specialist training.

HEPA filtration

Captures fine particulate during operation, supporting improved indoor air quality alongside the floor result.

Ask us anything
Questions about the ECOBOT 50 Pro

The ECOBOT 50 Pro scrubs and dries hard floors at up to 1,800 m² per hour. Actual throughput depends on layout — open concourse runs closer to the ceiling figure, while congested retail aisles and frequent obstacles bring it down.

Because it runs unattended, the more useful number is usually total area cleaned per day rather than per hour: the machine keeps working through periods when staffing a manual scrubber would not be practical.

No operator walks with the machine. It navigates autonomously once its route is mapped, which is what converts floor cleaning from a staffed task into a scheduled one.

A supervisor still sets routes, schedules runs and reviews results — but through the IntelliTouch touchscreen, which is designed to be picked up without specialist training.

Yes. TASKI robots were among the machines that defined robotic safety standards in this category, and the ECOBOT carries a sophisticated sensor array for exactly this reason.

The array manages obstacle detection and navigation so the machine works safely alongside operators, guests and the public rather than needing the area cleared first.

The work and docking station is what makes the machine genuinely autonomous. It handles charging between runs, so the ECOBOT can return, recharge and resume without anyone intervening.

That is the difference between a robot that needs to be plugged in at the end of every cycle and one that can hold a 24/7 cleaning schedule.

The saving comes from redeploying labour rather than removing it. Automating routine floor care frees your team for higher-priority, higher-value tasks, which is where the return usually shows up first.

Water recycling reduces consumption per cycle, and running outside peak hours means cleaning no longer competes with trading or visiting hours for floor access.

Large hard-floor environments — retail, healthcare, hospitality, education, transport hubs, manufacturing and facility management contracts.

It suits sites with either a strong innovation agenda or genuine labour constraints. In both cases the machine is doing the same job; the reason for buying it differs.

The system is supplied as the TASKI GS Ecobot 50 v4.1 (7525455), with the TASKI GS Workstation 50 (7525334) and TASKI GS Charging Station 40/50 (7525335) completing the autonomous set-up.

Because throughput depends heavily on your floor plan, a site demonstration is the fastest way to get a realistic figure. Use the Book a Demo button above and the team will arrange a walkthrough.

EMPERIA 1900

Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner – 5 Litres

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Advanced floor disinfectant and cleaner for everyday surface care

EMPERIA 1900 Vol. 7 is a professional-grade floor cleaner formulated with Smart Micellar Technology to deliver superior cleaning, sanitisation and surface protection across high-traffic environments. Designed to break down dirt, grime and stubborn stains effectively, its advanced techno-enabled surfactants ensure easy soil removal while maintaining hygienic cleanliness on tiles, granite and marble.

Why Choose Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner?

Surface Shine Preservation

Gentle cleaning action preserves floor shine and extends surface life, so high-traffic areas keep their finish rather than dulling over repeated cycles.

Fresh & Pleasant Fragrance

Neutralises odours and leaves a clean, pleasant fragrance behind after every round — noticeable in lobbies, corridors and washroom approaches.

Daily Professional Use

Built for hospitality, healthcare, institutional, commercial and industrial facilities, delivering results at low dosage for cost-effective daily housekeeping.

Product specifications
Product name
Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner
Appearance
Yellow liquid
pH level
5.9
Pack size
5 litres
Dilution
  • Normal soiling 10 mL per 1 L water
  • Heavy soiling 25 mL per 1 L water
Recommended surfaces
All types of floors including tiles, granite and marble
The science behind clean
Smart Micellar Technology™ explained

EMPERIA 1900 Vol. 7 combines advanced surfactant technology with supreme germ control to deliver superior cleaning efficiency and hygienic protection. These techno-enabled surfactants penetrate dirt, grime and stains, loosening soils for effortless removal while preserving surface integrity underneath.

Superior cleaning power

An advanced surfactant blend removes stubborn dirt and grime effectively, in a single pass.

Surface protection technology

The non-damaging formulation helps maintain floor durability and appearance over time.

Hygienic performance

Supports healthier environments through enhanced disinfection action in high-footfall areas.

Ask us anything
Questions about Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner

It is formulated for all types of floors, including tiles, granite and marble — which covers most of the hard flooring in a hotel, hospital, campus or commercial building.

At a pH of 5.9 it sits close to neutral rather than strongly alkaline, which is the range that would otherwise etch polished stone over repeated cleaning.

For normal soiling, use 10 mL per 1 litre of water. For heavy soiling — entrance lobbies, monsoon footfall, back-of-house, end-of-day deep cleaning — increase to 25 mL per 1 litre.

Because it is a concentrate, dosing accurately is where the cost saving comes from: over-dosing raises consumption and can leave residue, while under-dosing means more passes for the same result.

Vol. 7 pairs its surfactant system with germ control, so a single pass cleans and supports sanitisation together rather than needing a separate disinfection round.

That is the main reason it suits high-footfall areas, where the cleaning window is short and a two-step process is not practical.

No. The non-damaging formulation is designed to maintain floor durability and appearance, preserving shine and extending surface life through gentle cleaning action.

Soils are loosened and lifted rather than scoured off, which is what protects the finish across daily cycles.

The formulation neutralises odours rather than masking them, then leaves a fresh, pleasant fragrance behind. In practice that means the space reads as clean to anyone walking in, not just clean to look at.

Ventilation and footfall affect how long it holds, so entrance and washroom approaches are usually scheduled more frequently than back-of-house.

Yes — it is built for daily professional use across mopping, mechanised floor cleaning and routine housekeeping programmes.

Dose to the machine tank at the same ratios, and rinse the tank at the end of the shift as you would with any concentrate. Our team can advise on the right dosing for your equipment.

Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner is supplied in 5 litre packs. EMPERIA 1900 distributes across 20+ cities through 500+ channel partners, and the team can advise on volumes, trials and housekeeping staff training for your site.

EMPERIA 1900

Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner – 5 Litres

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Quick-soil removal action for all hard surfaces

EMPERIA 1900 Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner is a cutting-edge cleaning solution powered by Smart Micellar Technology, specially developed for efficient, gentle and streak-free maintenance across premium hard surfaces. It is built for professional housekeeping and routine institutional cleaning, lifting embedded dirt, grease and grime from granite, Italian marble, tiles and sinks without dulling the finish underneath.

Why Choose Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner?

Precision Cleaning Performance

An advanced surfactant blend targets embedded soil, grease and residue, clearing it quickly across every hard surface in the building.

Surface Shine Protection

Cleans without leaving streaks or build-up, so high-visibility floors and counters keep their finish through repeated daily cycles.

Non-Abrasive Composition

Gentle on premium finishes — it maintains surface integrity and the longevity of granite, marble and tiled areas rather than scouring them.

Product specifications
Product name
Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner
Appearance
Dark green liquid
pH level
6.00 – 7.00
Pack size
5 litres
Dilution
  • Normal soiling 10 mL per 1 L water
  • Heavy soiling 25 mL per 1 L water
Recommended surfaces
All hard surfaces including granite floors, Italian marble, tiles and sinks
The science behind clean
Smart Micellar Technology™ explained

EMPERIA 1900 Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner is powered by Smart Micellar Technology, which breaks down and lifts embedded dirt, grease, grime and residues without leaving streaks or build-up. That makes it well suited to maintaining high-visibility surfaces in premium commercial spaces, where the finish is as important as the clean.

Superior cleaning power

An advanced surfactant blend removes stubborn dirt and grime effectively, in a single pass.

Surface protection technology

The non-damaging formulation helps maintain floor durability and appearance over time.

Hygienic performance

Delivers a visibly cleaner, fresher and safer environment across daily housekeeping rounds.

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Questions about Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner

It is formulated for all hard surfaces — granite floors, Italian marble, tiles and sinks — which covers most of the washable area in a hotel, office building or institutional facility.

For soft flooring, or where a dedicated floor programme is in place, Vol. 7 Floor Cleaner is the better fit.

For normal soiling, use 10 mL per 1 litre of water. For heavy soiling — entrance areas, back-of-house, end-of-day deep cleaning — increase to 25 mL per 1 litre.

Because it is a concentrate, dosing accurately matters: over-dosing raises consumption and increases the chance of residue, while under-dosing means more passes to reach the same result.

No. The composition is non-abrasive and non-damaging, which is exactly what protects surface integrity on polished stone and preserves the longevity of premium finishes over repeated cleaning cycles.

At a pH of 6.00 to 7.00 it sits close to neutral rather than strongly acidic or alkaline — the range that would otherwise etch stone.

No. Smart Micellar Technology lifts embedded dirt, grease and grime away from the surface rather than smearing it, so the finish dries clean without streaking or build-up.

That matters most on high-visibility areas — lobbies, corridors, showroom floors — where residue shows up under lighting long before dirt does.

Yes. It is built for efficient daily maintenance and routine institutional housekeeping programmes, including routine bathroom cleaning.

Gloves are recommended for extended contact, and the concentrate should not be handled undiluted.

Micelles surround soil particles at a microscopic level and lift them off the surface so they rinse away instead of being pushed around. In day-to-day terms it means quick-soil removal — less scrubbing, fewer passes and a cleaner result in the same time.

Vol. 2 Hard Surface Cleaner is supplied in 5 litre packs. EMPERIA 1900 distributes across 20+ cities through 500+ channel partners, and the team can advise on volumes, trials and housekeeping staff training for your site.

EMPERIA 1900

K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner — 5 Litres

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Versatile concentrated cleaner for kitchenware, glass, and washable surfaces

EMPERIA 1900 K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner is a high-efficiency concentrated hygiene solution designed for diverse operational cleaning. Formulated to handle grease, soil, and grime across multiple washable materials, it rinses effortlessly to leave surfaces streak-free, scratch-free, and thoroughly sanitized.

Why Choose K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner?

All-Surface Versatility:

— Safe and effective on glass, cutlery, crockery, kitchen equipment, and vehicle exteriors.

Scratch-Free Cleaning:

— Non-abrasive formula gently lifts tough soils without dulling or scratching delicate finishes.

Easy & Rapid Rinse:

— Low-residue formulation washes away quickly, cutting down rinse time and water consumption.

Product specifications
Product name
K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner Liquid
Appearance
Clear liquid concentrate
pH Level (1% solution)
6.5 – 7.5
Pack size
5 litres
Dilution
  • Light/Regular Cleaning: 10 mL per 1 L water
  • Heavy Duty / Degreasing: 30 mL – 50 mL per 1 L water
Application areas
Kitchens, utensils, glassware, washable surfaces, cutlery, crockery, and fleet/vehicle care
Versatile surface care
Multi-Purpose Cleaning Power for Professional Environments

Built with a balanced surfactant complex, K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner encapsulates oil, soil, and water-soluble grime on contact. It enables rapid rinse-off across high-traffic facilities without leaving film or residue behind.

Kitchen Ready:

— Powerful enough for utensils, cutlery, and kitchen surfaces while remaining gentle on equipment.

Glass & Vehicle Care:

— Versatile performance engineered for streak-free glass clarity and vehicle exterior maintenance.

Concentrated Formula:

— High dilution efficiency delivers maximum coverage with minimal product consumption.

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Questions about K-Pro Multi-Purpose Cleaner

It is suitable for all washable surfaces including glass, kitchen utensils, cutlery, crockery, stainless steel equipment, countertops, and vehicle exteriors.

No. The formula is non-abrasive and cleans thoroughly without leaving scratches, hazing, or streak residue.

For standard daily cleaning, mix 10 mL per 1 L of water. For heavy grease or tough soil buildup, increase the dosage to 30–50 mL per 1 L of water.

Yes, it is specifically engineered for fast rinsing, which reduces both labor time and total water usage during cleaning operations.

Yes, it is designed for commercial kitchens, hotels, and food service environments. As with all cleaning agents, ensure food-contact surfaces are rinsed with potable water after washdown.

Less foam means less rinsing. In a busy wash-up that is the single biggest time cost, so cutting it shortens the cycle, reduces water consumption and moves crockery back to the floor faster.

K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid is supplied in 5 litre packs. EMPERIA 1900 distributes across 20+ cities through 500+ channel partners, and the team can advise on volumes, trials and housekeeping staff training for your site.

EMPERIA 1900

K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid – 5 Litres

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Professional dishwashing solution for commercial kitchens

EMPERIA 1900 K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid Concentrate is a high-performance kitchen hygiene solution developed for commercial kitchens, food processing facilities and institutional food service operations. Powered by Smart Micellar Technology, it delivers powerful grease-cutting performance while supporting efficient cleaning, hygiene compliance and day-to-day operational efficiency.

Why Choose K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid?

Powerful Cleaning

Effectively removes food residues, grease and stubborn deposits from utensils, crockery and kitchenware.

Machine-Friendly Formula

Designed for use with commercial dishwashing systems while supporting efficient machine operation.

Efficient & Hygienic

The concentrated formulation supports consistent cleaning performance while helping maintain high standards of kitchen hygiene.

Product specifications
Product name
K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid
Appearance
Thick yellow liquid
pH (1% solution)
5.5 – 6.5
Pack size
5 litres
Dilution
  • Normal soiling 10 mL per 1 L water
  • Heavy soiling 50 mL per 1 L water
Application areas
Commercial kitchens, hotels, restaurants and food processing units
The science behind clean
Smart Micellar Technology for advanced kitchen hygiene

EMPERIA 1900 K-Pro combines Smart Micellar Technology with specialised degreasing agents that surround, loosen and lift grease, oil and food soils at a microscopic level. The result is a cleaning mechanism that raises efficiency while cutting water consumption and labour effort.

Superior degreasing performance

Dissolves stubborn grease and oily residues quickly, even on heavily soiled cookware.

Efficient water usage

The low-foam formulation needs less rinsing, supporting more sustainable cleaning practice.

Food environment hygiene support

Helps keep food preparation areas cleaner and safer through every service cycle.

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Questions about K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid

K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid is formulated for manual dishwashing — sinks, three-compartment wash stations and pot wash. For automatic dishwashing machines, use K-Pro Machine Dish Wash, which is low-foaming, colourless and non-perfumed for machine cycles.

For normal soiling, use 10 mL per 1 litre of water. For heavy soiling — baked-on grease, pot wash, end-of-service cleaning — increase to 50 mL per 1 litre.

Because it is a concentrate, dosing accurately matters: over-dosing raises consumption without improving results, and under-dosing means more scrubbing.

At 5.5 to 6.5 pH in a 1% solution, the working solution is close to skin-neutral rather than strongly alkaline, which is why it suits repeated daily use across a shift.

Gloves are still recommended for extended immersion, and the concentrate should not be handled undiluted.

No. The formula is non-abrasive, so it lifts grease without scouring the surface — which is what protects non-stick coatings, glassware clarity and cutlery finish over repeated washes.

It rinses away cleanly and is designed to leave utensils, cookware and crockery streak-free.

Yes. It is built for commercial kitchens, hotels, restaurants and food processing units, and supports hygiene compliance on food-contact surfaces and equipment.

As with any cleaning chemical, rinse with potable water after washing before items return to service.

Less foam means less rinsing. In a busy wash-up that is the single biggest time cost, so cutting it shortens the cycle, reduces water consumption and moves crockery back to the floor faster.

K-Pro Dish Wash Liquid is supplied in 5 litre packs. EMPERIA 1900 distributes across 20+ cities through 500+ channel partners, and the team can advise on volumes, trials and housekeeping staff training for your site.