The long-awaited ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo returned to Sydney on 14-15 September 2022, giving the industry the opportunity to come together for two days of education, networking, and business building.
The free-to-attend event, and only show in the southern hemisphere dedicated to the cleaning and hygiene industry, welcomed business owners, suppliers, facility managers, purchasing officers, building service contractors, and over 80 exhibitors.
“We have been thrilled to see the industry reunited in-person after more than two years. The show floor has been buzzing and the wait has been worth it,” said Lauren Micallef, ISSA Oceania manager.
“There has been something for everyone at the event from education seminars, training workshops, and networking opportunities. Exhibitors have also raised the bar this year, with their products, services, and stands on display.”
Leaders share insights
After the first day, Stuart Nicol, ISSA Oceania advisory council chair, said the feedback from exhibitors was extremely positive.
“The standard from exhibitors has once again been raised, and we have seen a broader range of customers from across the country attend the expo.”
During the program’s first panel session, Tim Edmonson, managing director of Edco Cleaning Products, and Oliver Lazarevic, CEO of Supply Clusters, discussed how their businesses adapted during COVID and shared learnings since the pandemic.
“It’s a matter of using the experience you have, relying on the knowledge developed over the years, and assessing each situation individually, and then making the best decision you can,” said Edmonson.
Don’t be afraid to change course if that first decision isn’t working. Always be willing to review what you have done.”
During a panel discussion on social sustainability, Gareth Marriott, managing director of OCS Australia and New Zealand, spoke of the importance of company culture.
“In this industry, your people are your biggest asset. If you get the people element right, you will be a successful organisation.
“If you don’t have the right culture within your organisation, you won’t be able to entice or encourage the next generation,” said Marriott.
Another highlight was the program’s innovation panel, where delegates discussed emerging technologies in the cleaning industry.
“Artificial intelligence, robotics, and evidence-based cleaning are the next trends that we as an industry are only at the start of,” said Mark Phelan, commercial director, Fruendenberg Home & Cleaning Solutions.
Thomas Culver, founder, The Robot Factory, said the industry needs to embrace to robotics.
“It’s not true that the robots are coming, they are already here,” said Culver.
Day Two Captured
The second day of the education program saw business leaders discuss topics such as infectious disease prevention, the importance of collaboration between BSCs and FMs, and delivering successful tenders and quotes.
Check out some of the highlights from Day Two here.
More than 2000 delegates attended this year’s ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo at the International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour, Sydney.
At ISSA, we truly appreciate this overwhelming participation, and as the worldwide cleaning industry association, we are incredibly proud to represent both this essential industry and support such a diverse community.
We’re looking forward to the next Expo and the exciting connections, products, and technologies it will bring!
