Going for Gold: Showcasing the cleaning sector’s Olympian feats

A summer of sport, including the Olympic Games Paris 2024 is showcasing not only the best athletes but is also a sparkling display of contemporary venues and vital infrastructure services.

The cleaning, facilities management and environmental sectors can say with confidence that they are heavily involved in this Olympian triumph. Thousands of staff across these industries play a critical role in making sporting events, watched by millions worldwide, a global success. From top-notch venues, and street cleaning, to ensuring hygienic living spaces for athletes, and setting a new benchmark in sustainability, it’s not just the competitors going for gold.

Failing to meet high standards of cleanliness and pollution control can have serious consequences, underscoring the importance of these measures. This has been highlighted at Paris 2024, with the men’s Olympic Triathlon postponed by a day, causing disruption and negative news headlines, after tests revealed the River Seine was too polluted for the race.

Organisers aim to mirror ‘on field’ sporting success with the ‘off field’ glory of positive change for the environment and communities. An on-going programme of communication and consultation with communities helps share this progress. So how do we live up to the challenge of making sure the cleaning sector is involved in that lasting legacy of advancement and receives the recognition it so richly deserves?

Making cleaning and hygiene a core part of the national agenda

In the UK, industry bodies and their members are doing much to help raise the profile of the sector. The British Cleaning Council is campaigning for the Government to put cleaning and hygiene policy and regulation at the heart of the national agenda, recognise the industry’s role in protecting the safety and wellbeing of others, and ensure the nation is better prepared for future public health emergencies. As one of the ten biggest industries in the country, the sector contributes significantly to the nation’s health and wealth.

Celebrate achievements

As a vast international audience celebrates sporting excellence, the cleaning sector has the chance to not only share success stories, but also communicate broader messages about its strength and professionalism. PR plays a powerful role in conveying industry values, inspiration and aspiration.

News about compelling projects, incorporating strong data, infographics and high-quality images helps to create impact across online media, print publications and social media. There are now many ways of getting the message across that go beyond press releases, case studies and articles, adding to the huge value that these bring.

The cleaning sector is constantly looking ahead to develop the most effective services, products and tools. Leaders in the field are also shaping what best practice looks like, crafting carefully thought-out training programmes that strive to ensure cleaning operatives stay safe, and the environments they work in are sanitised to the highest standard.

More still needs to be done to highlight these essential services and raise the profile of the sector in the mainstream. If you’re focused on making sure your achievements, and the voice of the industry is heard, remember that quality content, relevance and relationships are key. Together, let’s go for gold!

If you’d like support in gaining a podium finish, as part of your brand’s cohesive communication strategy, please get in touch.