In the last issue, Clean India Journal focussed on the trends that will shape the service industry in 2024. Echoing their thoughts, the suppliers of cleaning products enumerate the top trends that will be in demand for 2024. Cleaning industry suppliers shared some of the observations which include, sustainability, innovative solutions, small machines & packed solutions, and focus on smaller cities.
Tony Chazhoor, Managing Director, IP Cleaning India Pvt. Ltd
Sustainable cleaning machines play a crucial role in the professional and industrial sectors, where maintaining cleanliness is essential for both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Here are some key aspects of sustainable cleaning machines: Energy Efficiency, Water Conservation, Chemical-Free Cleaning, Smart Technologies, Recyclability and Eco-Friendly Materials & Regulatory Compliance.
The following trend was seen in the year 2023, and there was a surge in demand for certain kinds of machines, which promote sustainability. The trend will amplify and continue in the year 2024.
1. Battery powered heavy duty sweepers for Large public spaces and Industries- minus the emissions which are produced by petrol & diesel machines.
2. Scrubber Dryers with low noise levels and innovative technology which can clean without the need of chemicals, durable designs using recyclable and eco-friendly materials.
3. Steam Cleaners- for hospitality, healthcare for steam can clean without chemicals and is even safe around elderly and people with allergies to chemicals. Also, steam has a sanitizing, decontaminating, and degreasing action.
4. High Pressure Washers with electrically fired boiler for Food & Pharma Industry- which can be safely used inside the plants without producing emissions.
Other trends of the market for cleaning machinery are as below:
1. Steam cleaners, Steam Scrubbers, Foaming and Rinsing machines for Washroom Hygiene– Used in offices, hospitality, healthcare & public places.
2. Specialized machines- High Reach & Façade cleaning for safe cleaning methods- avoiding the need for scaffoldings, cherry pickers and bosun chairs etc. In the coming months and years cleaning companies shall also consider robots for such cleaning jobs.
3. Mini & Micro Scrubber Dryers Machines for cleaning inaccessible areas- used in offices, residential, hospitality, ITES & education sector.
We have the entire necessary line of machines and have introduced newer products like vertical scrubbers and also scrubber dryers with ecH20 technology, which completely obviate the need for chemicals, and other sustainable products in the vacuum, scrubber dryers, sweepers and high-pressure range.
Jatinder Kaul, Managing Director, Karcher Cleaning Systems Pvt. Ltd
Anticipated Trends for 2024:
1. Growing Demand in Expanding Industries: With industries expanding and diversifying, we foresee an increased demand for specialized cleaning solutions tailored to the unique needs of sectors such as manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare.
2. Rising Consumer Demand: The heightened focus on hygiene and cleanliness has elevated consumer expectations. As a result, we anticipate a surge in demand for home and professional cleaning solutions that offer efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.
3. Mechanized Cleaning for Public Spaces and Monuments: In the wake of increased awareness and emphasis on public hygiene, the demand for mechanized cleaning solutions for public spaces and monuments is expected to witness substantial growth. This aligns with the broader movement toward smart cities and sustainable urban development.
Our Approach to Meeting this Demand:
1. Innovative Product Development: We are committed to pioneering innovative products that cater to the evolving needs of various industries. Our focus is on delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and provide a superior cleaning experience.
2. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with industry stakeholders, service providers, and end-users is integral to our approach. By fostering strategic partnerships, we aim to understand specific challenges and requirements, ensuring our solutions align seamlessly with market needs.
3. Continuous Improvement: Through ongoing research and development, Kärcher remains at the forefront of technological advancements. We are dedicated to continuous improvement in our products and services to meet the dynamic demands of the cleaning industry.
We have geared up for each industry including agriculture, food, automotive, construction, contract cleaning, health, hotels & hospitals, retail, pharma, rubber & plastics, chemicals, electrical & optics, printing, glass & stone and metal.
Debtosh Chatterjee, CEO, Chatterjee Cleaning Arts Services Ltd
Supplier perspective on the innovations & products in demand
Not expecting any major innovation as such. There could be some improvisation in packages. We could expect a smaller chemical pack size as workplaces are getting smaller.
Traditional markets such as IT, Malls and BFSI market share will remain same if not reduce. However, a lot of new segments are likely to come up. Religious tourism would be the flavour of the season. We can expect demand growing in places like Ayodhya and Varanasi.
Cleaning tools will see more ‘Indianised’ versions.
Service providers’ perspective on the processes and changes that is required
From the service provider’s perspective, the biggest challenge would be to adapt a situation where differentiation made between service providers, would be minimised. Previously digitisation was given prominence but now such IT applications are available widely.
Service providers will not find greenfield business from IT, Malls and BFSI (one of the largest customer bases) as nothing much is going to add up in these sectors. The business from the industry segment will be robust and the smaller size services would gain more prominence in this market.
The biggest challenge for service provider would be cater to this new trend in the near future. Customers will go for on-demand services rather than annual contracts. Multi-skilled labour would be in demand.
Geography wise service provider would look for business beyond top tire cities. Due to election year, there is a big expectation of higher raise of wages by the central government. Resultantly, cost of manpower is likely to go up.
End-users’ challenges, requirements and practices
Not much to add from the end user perspective. However, the standards of processes and practices in the Tier II and III cities would be similar to the expectations of Tier I cities. Providing similar customer experience would still be a major challenge.
Demand for products and solutions specific for 2024
Products and solutions would be targeted for smaller consumption for small size properties. This will also require investment for on demand customer requirements and logistics for supply of small quantities of tools and equipment.
Isha Sagar, Key Account Manager India, Essity Hygiene & Health AB
We see a stronger focus on reducing their carbon footprint in the commercial segment across their consumption and operations. Thus, driving a demand for products with a positive sustainable impact. Consumers prefer businesses with the right environmental and social credentials, and buying trends are increasingly being driven by conscious consumers.
According to research conducted by Essity, 78% of employees want their employer to do more to create an eco-friendly office. With the launch of our Carbon Neutral dispensers in all major categories, Essity is geared up to provide a positive sustainable impact to our valued customers while maintaining the highest level of hygiene with our certified paper and skincare range.