The facility management industry is rapidly evolving. Innovation is at the centre of the change, with ESG remaining central in every boardroom discussion and sustainability initiatives becoming increasingly important. At the same time, economic instability means organisations are looking for agile businesses that will boost efficiency while aligning cost savings with their sustainability goals.

A lot is happening. From the surge in outsourcing and embracing groundbreaking technologies to prioritising greener cleaning practices, staying updated with the industry's latest trends is more important than ever. We delve into the latest facility management trends and explore how businesses can stay ahead.

Trend #1: Outsourcing

The global facilities management market is estimated to reach $1.9 trillion by 2024. Large-scale companies are outsourcing for facilities management to maintain work environments, comply with health and safety standards and achieve sustainability goals.

The increase in outsourcing is great news if you’re a facility management company (and we assume you are all facilities managers if you’re reading this). You’re an indispensable partner to businesses seeking to optimise their operation, and there are opportunities to tap into new revenue streams and expand your market reach.

Despite the thriving market, it’s still competitive, with facilities management companies competing for the biggest clients. To stay in demand, you must keep up with industry trends like technology and innovation, which we explore in the next point.

Trend #2: Technology and innovation

70% of commercial cleaning companies are investing in digital transformation. This is no surprise. We had a booth at the ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo last year, and the emerging technologies were impressive. There were cleaning robots, predictive maintenance systems and smart waste management systems – all products revolutionising cleaning. These advanced technologies hold immense potential for companies seeking to boost efficiency and improve sustainability while improving service delivery.

The innovation trend isn’t just in the technology. Innovations in biotechnology have allowed us to move away from cleaning products containing harsh chemicals to greener alternatives that are both better for the environment. Microbe-based cleaning products are in high demand, with more businesses choosing them for their effectiveness, versatility and economic benefits.

Trend #3: Greener cleaning

Amidst growing environmental concerns, consumers are more informed and selective about their products, seeking out eco-friendlier brands. The expectation around sustainability is the same in organisations. Driven by sustainability managers seeking easy ESG wins, businesses hold facility management companies to higher standards and partner with companies that share their commitment to sustainable practices.

What’s an easy ESG win? Greener cleaning products. Sustainability managers want to create safer, healthier workspaces. When faced with a choice between a top facilities management company that uses greener cleaning products and one that uses traditional solutions, they will always choose eco-friendlier solutions, especially when costs and performance are on par. Improving sustainable practices demonstrates environmental responsibility, aligning with conscious organisations' ESG goals.

Trend #4: Sustainability influence

We are seeing an increase in sustainability manager positions, and they have more influence on business decisions. Factors driving the trend:

Long-term sustainability:

Companies are developing robust ESG strategies and need sustainability managers to champion them.

Compliance:

Sustainability managers ensure compliance with environmental regulations and push companies beyond basic standards.

Operational efficiency:

Sustainability managers align sustainability with strategic financial benefits.

Attracting talent:

Sustainability managers make companies more attractive to prospective employees who put a higher value on environmental responsibility and well-being.

Driving innovation:

Sustainability managers are pivotal in driving innovation and strategic shifts towards sustainable business models.

Collaborating with various stakeholders makes sustainability managers pivotal in environmental and social change. Facility managers will be liaising with these professionals more in the future and must meet their objectives.

Trend #5: Transparent operations

In the information age, businesses face more scrutiny than ever. Transparency is integral to facilities managers and building management maintaining positive brand perception. This trend is particularly relevant in facilities management as environmental awareness and health concerns rise.

Transparency in facility management operations is now expected. Facility managers must embrace open communication about their practices, particularly in energy management, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing. Companies that openly communicate their commitment to eco-friendlier practices and prioritise the health of their employees and clients gain trust and build stronger client relationships. This openness encourages industry-wide shifts towards more sustainable and responsible cleaning practices, aligning with broader ESG goals.

Why stay ahead of the trends?

As the industry rapidly evolves, facility management companies must adapt to remain relevant. Here's why staying ahead of facilities management trends now is essential:

Stay competitive

Keeping pace with key trends, like outsourcing, technological innovation, and greener cleaning ensures that you can offer the services that clients demand, preventing the loss of market share to more agile competitors.

Meet client demands

Businesses increasingly seek partners that align with their ESG goals. Facility managers and facilities management teams should stay formed and adopt practices that commit facility operations to these values.

Be a leader

Embracing emerging trends in digital transformation and biotechnological advancements in cleaning products positions facility management companies as leaders in innovation, improving brand reputation and attracting and maintaining business.

Align with ESG

Facility management companies leading in greener cleaning will attract clients looking to improve ESG performance. This leadership in sustainability also contributes to a positive brand image and reputation in various aspects of the facility management market.

Staying ahead of facility management trends is not just about keeping up with the facility management industry; it's about leading it. You can ensure your facility management long-term success by embracing change, investing in new technologies, and prioritising sustainability.

Reach ESG targets with biodegradable cleaning products that outperform traditional methods.