Entries for 2025 European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards are now closed
Why enter?
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Gain international recognition by showcasing your achievements
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Help attract new business and stand out from your competitors
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Share best practice
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Benchmark your success
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Improve staff culture and boost morale
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Gain fantastic media opportunities
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Have your work commended by our esteemed judging panel
Categories
Entry criteria
You will need to take the following points into consideration when submitting your entry:​
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You may enter more than one category but each individual entry can only be submitted for a maximum of two categories.
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Entries should be submitted via the online entry form - click here.
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You must submit a 500 word summary with supporting information about how the entrant(s) have achieved their success for each entry. Please note the word limit for the entry summary is strictly 500 words.
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Only six pages of supporting material will be accepted – this should be collated into a single six page document.
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Entries should be mainly based on the year to September 2024. However, relevant material can be submitted for work prior to September 2023.​
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*The Awards are for European based companies or companies that can present a European project/trade as their entry.
International Expansion - NEW FOR 2025
New for 2025, entries for the International Expansion award must demonstrate how a business has successfully developed its geographical reach over the past year. Criteria include:
• Global market reach: The extent of the company’s international operations, including the number of countries and market share growth in foreign regions.
• Strategic innovation: How effectively the business has developed and executed an international strategy, adapting products or services to local needs while navigating diverse cultural and economic environments.
• Financial performance: Revenue and profit growth driven by international markets, alongside a strong return on investment (ROI) from global ventures.
• Operational excellence: Efficient management of supply chains, logistics and distribution across international markets, while ensuring compliance with local regulations and standards.
• Cultural integration: Success in managing cross-cultural teams and fostering a global organisational culture, along with leadership and talent development in new markets.
• Risk management and resilience: Ability to identify and mitigate risks, such as political or economic instability, while adapting to challenges and maintaining business resilience.
• Brand and customer recognition: Success in building brand recognition and customer loyalty in international markets through effective marketing and customer service.
• Sustainability of expansion: Long-term growth potential with scalable operations and strategies for continued global expansion without compromising quality.
Digital Transformation (formerly Best Use of Smart Solutions)
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This category celebrates businesses that have successfully leveraged technology to revolutionise their operations, enhance customer experience and drive innovation. Key criteria include:
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Strategic vision: A clear, well-defined digital transformation strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business goals. This includes a commitment to staying ahead of technological trends and continuously evolving the business model.
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Technology adoption: Successful implementation of cutting-edge technologies, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT), to improve operational efficiency, customer service and overall performance.
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Process optimisation: The use of digital tools to streamline internal processes, increase productivity and reduce costs. This may include automation of workflows, digitisation of legacy systems and enhancing data-driven decision-making.
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Customer experience: The integration of digital solutions that significantly improve customer interactions - from personalised marketing to seamless experiences. The entry should demonstrate how technology has enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.
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Data utilisation: Effective use of data analytics, AI and machine learning to gain insights, drive decision-making, and predict future trends. Data should be leveraged to optimise performance and enhance business strategies.
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Agility and scalability: The ability to rapidly adapt to changing market conditions and scale operations using flexible digital platforms.
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Employee empowerment: Providing employees with the tools, training and resources to succeed in a digital-first environment.
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Leadership and change management: Strong leadership that champions digital initiatives and manages the organisational change effectively, ensuring buy-in from all stakeholders
Investment in Training and People Development
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This category focuses on organisations that prioritise the growth and development of their employees, demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous learning and career progression. This includes:
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Training programmes: The scope and quality of employee training initiatives, covering both technical and soft skills. Training programmes are designed to meet the evolving needs of the business and its workforce, with opportunities for employees to acquire new skills and stay competitive in their roles.
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Employee development strategy: A clear, long-term plan for employee development that aligns with business goals. This includes offering programmes that cater to different levels of expertise - from entry-level to leadership development - ensuring there are opportunities for all employees to grow.
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Learning opportunities: A variety of learning methods, such as in-house workshops, online courses, mentorship programmes and external certifications. Access to a broad range of learning resources tailored to individual employee needs.
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Leadership development: Investment in leadership training to nurture future leaders within the organisation. This includes creating pathways for employees to develop management skills and progress into senior leadership roles.
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Career advancement: Clear opportunities for career growth. Opportunities for internal mobility and development of employees from within demonstrate a strong investment in long-term success.
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Employee engagement: Regular feedback mechanisms that assess the effectiveness of training and development programmes.
Excellence in Client-Contractor Partnerships
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This category recognises exemplary collaborations where cleaning service providers and their clients work together to achieve mutual success. The criteria typically include:
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Communication and collaboration: The quality and frequency of communication between the cleaning company and the client. Strong partnerships are built on transparency, open dialogue and a clear understanding of expectations.
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Customisation and flexibility: The ability of the service provider to tailor services to meet the specific needs of the client - adjusting schedules, tasks or cleaning methods. Flexibility in adapting to changing needs is a key factor.
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Quality of service: A successful partnership ensures the contractor maintains excellent service delivery, whether it's in maintaining hygiene standards, providing specialist services or meeting specific industry requirements.
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Reliability and trust: The cleaning company’s ability to deliver on promises consistently and on time.
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Innovation and efficiency: The introduction of new technologies, cleaning methods, or eco-friendly practices that improve service efficiency, reduce costs or improve results. A commitment to sustainability and innovation can strengthen a partnership.
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Problem-solving and responsiveness: How quickly and effectively the contractor responds to challenges or unforeseen issues. Proactive problem-solving and the ability to address client concerns in a timely manner.
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Value for money: Clients appreciate a service that delivers value, whether through cost-saving practices or enhanced outcomes.
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Long-term relationship: Evidence of a long-term, evolving partnership built on mutual respect and shared goals. Partnerships that are sustained over time, with clear commitments to ongoing improvement.
Sustainability – Best Practice
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The integration of sustainability practices covers all aspects of a business’ operation - from environmental practices to social responsibility and economic impact. Key criteria typically include:
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Environmental sustainability: Efforts to reduce energy consumption, waste and carbon emissions - such as adopting renewable energy, energy-efficient practices, and sustainable resource management. This also includes minimising water usage and promoting recycling.
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Sustainable products and services: Development of eco-friendly products or services that reduce environmental harm. This includes sustainable sourcing, ethical manufacturing and using environmentally friendly packaging or materials.
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Waste reduction and circular economy: Implementation of practices to minimise waste such as recycling, reusing materials and adopting circular economy principles like product take-back or repair programmes.
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Social responsibility: Commitment to ethical labour practices, diversity and inclusion and community engagement. Companies that contribute to social good, through charitable programmes or local partnerships.
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Sustainable supply chain: Ensuring suppliers adhere to sustainability standards by evaluating their environmental and social impacts.
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Transparency and reporting: Regular, transparent reporting on sustainability progress, challenges and outcomes. Companies that publish detailed sustainability reports or engage in third-party audits demonstrate accountability.
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Employee engagement: Involving employees in sustainability efforts, offering training and fostering a culture of sustainability within the organisation.
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Long-term vision: Setting ambitious sustainability goals with clear metrics and timelines, and showing a commitment to continuous improvement.
Commitment to Diversity in the Workforce
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Recognising organisations and businesses that prioritise creating an inclusive, equitable, and diverse work environment - where all employees can thrive, regardless of background.
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Diversity in recruiting: Efforts to attract and retain a diverse workforce, including initiatives aimed at improving gender, racial, and ethnic representation. This includes targeted recruitment strategies, partnerships with diverse talent pools and the implementation of fair and unbiased recruitment practices.
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Inclusive workplace culture: A commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued and respected. This includes promoting open dialogue, creating employee resource groups and supporting diverse leadership at all levels of the organization.
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Training and education: Ongoing diversity and inclusion training programs aimed at raising awareness, addressing unconscious bias and developing cultural competence
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Career development opportunities: Providing equal access to professional growth and advancement for employees from all backgrounds. This includes mentorship programmes, leadership development initiatives and ensuring all employees have an equal opportunity to progress.
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Support for under-represented groups: Special programmes or policies aimed at supporting the growth and success of underrepresented groups within the workforce, such as flexible work arrangements, accessible facilities and initiatives to address any barriers to inclusion.
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Measurable impact: Regular tracking and reporting of diversity metrics to assess progress. Companies that establish clear diversity goals and transparently report on their efforts show a true commitment to change.
Best Initiative Raising the Profile
of the Cleaning Sector
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This award recognises businesses or organisations that have successfully elevated the reputation and visibility of the cleaning industry. Key criteria include:
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Innovation and creativity: The initiative should introduce fresh ideas that capture public and industry attention. This could involve unique campaigns or creative marketing strategies that challenge outdated perceptions of the cleaning sector.
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Public awareness: Efforts to educate and inform the public about the importance and professionalism of the industry. This might include media campaigns, community outreach or events that highlight the value of professional cleaning.
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Collaboration and partnerships: Successful initiatives often involve partnerships with other sectors, such as healthcare, education, or hospitality, to showcase the importance of professional cleaning. Building relationships with key stakeholders can help amplify the impact of the initiative.
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Professionalism and standards: Demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the professionalism of the industry, including promoting certifications, training and best practices that raise the standard of service and expertise.
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Measurable Impact: The initiative should demonstrate measurable success, such as increased media coverage, improved public perception or greater industry recognition. Companies should provide evidence of tangible outcomes that reflect the initiative’s success.
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Technological Innovation of the Year
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This award recognises businesses that have introduced groundbreaking technologies that improve cleaning efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. Key criteria:
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Innovation and uniqueness: The technology should be new, original or a significant improvement on existing solutions. It should demonstrate clear innovation in enhancing cleaning processes, reducing labour costs or improving safety.
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Impact on efficiency: The technology must improve operational efficiency, either by automating tasks, streamlining workflows or reducing the time required to complete tasks..
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Environmental benefits: Technologies that promote sustainability. This includes innovations that reduce water or chemical usage, decrease waste or improve energy efficiency. Solutions that contribute to greener cleaning practices or support environmental certifications.
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Ease of integration: The technology should be easily integrated into existing operations or systems. Solutions that offer scalability or flexibility, allowing for smooth adoption across various business sizes and types.
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User-friendliness: The technology should be intuitive and easy for cleaning staff to use, with minimal training required. Machines, tools or software that improve the user experience for both cleaning staff and customers.
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Measurable outcomes: Evidence of the technology’s success, such as improved performance, cost savings or customer satisfaction is crucial. The technology should show measurable results that demonstrate its effectiveness and value in real-world applications.
Leader of the Year
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This award celebrates an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership - inspiring growth, innovation and a positive workplace culture. Entries should demonstrate:
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Visionary leadership: The leader should have a clear, strategic vision for the company, guiding it toward long-term success. This includes setting ambitious goals, driving innovation and navigating challenges.
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Impact on organisational growth: The leader’s ability to foster business growth – they should have made a tangible, measurable impact on the organisation’s success.
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Employee engagement and development: A strong focus on developing and empowering employees, including fostering a positive, inclusive workplace culture. This includes providing mentorship, supporting professional growth, and creating opportunities for career advancement.
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Innovation and problem-solving: The ability to inspire innovation within the organisation, encouraging creative thinking and solutions to complex challenges. A leader who embraces change, drives new ideas and successfully adapts to industry trends.
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Integrity and ethical standards: Leading with honesty, transparency and ethical behaviour.
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Community and industry influence: A leader who positively influences the wider community or industry through advocacy, partnerships or corporate social responsibility initiatives - a role model for others.
Rising Star
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This category recognises an emerging leader or standout individual who has shown exceptional promise and achievement early in their career within the cleaning industry.
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Outstanding performance: The individual must demonstrate exceptional work performance - showing dedication, skill and consistent results. This includes going above and beyond in their role, contributing to the company’s success and reputation.
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Innovation and problem-Solving: Someone who introduces new ideas or solutions that improve
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Leadership potential: Even if not yet in a senior leadership role, the candidate should display strong leadership qualities, such as the ability to motivate and inspire others, demonstrate responsibility and show potential for future managerial roles.
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Commitment to excellence: A strong focus on continuous improvement, whether through personal development, skill-building or obtaining relevant certifications.
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Positive impact on the organisation: The individual should have made a measurable positive impact on their organisation - whether by improving service delivery, enhancing customer satisfaction or contributing
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Industry involvement and networking: Active participation in the professional cleaning community, such as engaging with industry associations, attending events or building networks.
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Passion and drive: A genuine passion for the cleaning industry and a clear drive to build a long-term
career within it.
Best Company to Work For - NEW FOR 2025
Sponsored by:
New for 2025, this category evaluates organisations on several key criteria that reflect their commitment to creating an outstanding workplace culture and employee experience.
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Employee satisfaction: The overall happiness and morale of employees are central. This includes surveys or feedback mechanisms that measure job satisfaction, engagement and work-life balance.
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Workplace culture: A positive and inclusive company culture, where employees feel valued and respected, is critical. This includes diversity and inclusion initiatives, open communication and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
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Compensation and benefits: Competitive salaries, comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans and other perks like flexible working hours, paid time off and wellness programmes.
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Leadership and management: Effective, transparent and approachable leadership that prioritises employee development, listens to concerns and promotes career advancement opportunities.
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Employee development and growth: Companies that invest in ongoing training, mentorship and clear career progression pathways stand out. Opportunities for skill development and promotion from within.
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Work-life balance: Organisations that foster a flexible and supportive approach to work-life integration, such as remote work options or family-friendly policies.
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Recognition and rewards: Regular recognition of employee achievements, both individually and in teams, helps build morale. This could include bonuses, awards or public acknowledgment for contributions.
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Social responsibility: A company’s commitment to ethical practices, sustainability, and community involvement can also enhance its reputation as an employer of choice.