The window cleaner sector in the UK is currently undergoing some changes. One of the biggest trends is an increase in the use of technology. Many window cleaners are now using robotic cleaners, which can be operated remotely. This helps to improve efficiency and reduces the need for manual labor. Additionally, there has been a trend towards green cleaning products. Many window cleaners are now using eco-friendly solutions that are less harmful to the environment.
This is especially important in urban areas, where air pollution is a major concern. Another trend that is affecting the window cleaner sector is an increase in regulation.
In recent years, there have been stricter laws introduced regarding the use of chemicals and ladders. As a result, many window cleaners are now turning to alternative methods, such as rope access, and pole systems to comply with these new regulations
Here are the latest trends within the window cleaning sector.
What has been happening in the window cleaning sector
For several reasons, window cleaning services have become increasingly popular over the past few decades:
- The use of large areas of glass and other specialist cladding and finishes in modern buildings has increased the demand for window cleaners, particularly those who can work at height.
- Solar panel cleaning do to the increase from solar farms
- It has become increasingly important to maintain the appearance of business premises of all types
- Window cleaning is becoming less and less of a priority for domestic householders
- As the population ages, more elderly people require assistance with window cleaning and other tasks
- Renters are increasingly buying in cleaning and maintenance services for their buy-to-let properties. If your local landlords’ association doesn’t have a trade directory, you might try contacting them.
Several companies offer their customers other services, such as gardening and general cleaning.
Solar panel cleaning has become a niche industry as solar panels on buildings and large solar farms have become increasingly common.
Small businesses, many of which operate from home, remain fragmented in the industry. Due to the intense competition in this industry, rates have remained low, and wages have remained low as well. As a result, it has been difficult to find and keep good employees.
Through education and training for employees, the window cleaning industry has attempted to raise standards and raise its status in recent years. Several initiatives have been implemented in recent years to reduce the risk of falls in the window cleaning industry and to raise awareness of the need to carry out risk assessments under regulations regarding work at height safety. A safety accredited member program (SAM) has been launched by the Federation of Window Cleaners. Telescopic pole systems have made working at height less necessary.
In spite of the many technological developments, window cleaners may face a threat if self-cleaning glass becomes widely used.
During the economic downturn of the late 2000s window cleaning businesses where hit hard. People often reduced the frequency of window cleanings or did it themselves to reduce their spending on things like regular window cleaning. Businesses also looked for ways to make savings. In Britain’s high streets, many vacant properties were left empty by business failures, affecting window cleaning demand once again. Furthermore, widespread redundancies forced many people to look elsewhere for work – and window cleaners appealed to them because it is relatively straightforward to get into the industry.
In turn, this increased competition in the industry. 2013 was a much better year than 2014 and 2015, however. In the aftermath of the Brexit vote in June 2016, the economic recovery slowed towards the end of 2015 and into 2016.
Consumer confidence in the economy fell following the Brexit vote as a result of increased economic uncertainty, and economic performance suffered throughout 2017 and into 2018, as household budgets were squeezed by inflation and a limited increase in real wages, making consumers’ disposable income scarcer. With consumers cutting back on spending and doing their own cleaning, window cleaning firms have suffered.
Keeping up to date with developments
Keep up with industry developments by joining a trade association. The Federation of Window Cleaners (FWC) represents the interests of the window cleaning industry. The FWC’s journal, Window Talk, is published quarterly. The FWC’s website provides contact information and more information about the organisation.
In addition to promoting the cleaning industry, the British Cleaning Council (BCC) organises national exhibitions and awards.
There are members from all areas of the cleaning industry who are members of the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc), which is not a trade association. For more information, please visit the BICSc website.
Keeping up with industry developments is also possible by subscribing to a trade journal. Topical issues affecting the cleaning industry are regularly covered in Cleaning Hygiene Today.
Conclusion
In 2023, the window cleaning industry is forecast to see a few changes. First, the use of environmentally friendly cleaners will continue to grow. This trend is being driven by both consumers and businesses who are looking for ways to reduce their impact on the environment. Second, the use of robotic window cleaners will also become more common.
These devices are able to clean windows quickly and efficiently, and they can also reach hard-to-reach places. As a result, they are an increasingly popular choice for both commercial and residential customers. Finally, the demand for mobile window cleaners is expected to increase. This is due to the fact that more people are working from home and have less time to clean their own windows. As a result, mobile services that come to your home or office will be in high demand.
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