Janitorial Supplies Industry Trends: What Changed in 2024

The Evolving Janitorial Supplies Landscape

The janitorial supplies industry evolved rapidly in 2024, driven by sustainability demands, technological innovation, and changing workplace expectations. Here's what shaped the market and continues into 2025.

Sustainability Takes Centre Stage

Environmental concerns moved from niche to mainstream business priorities.

Plastic Reduction

The war on single-use plastic transformed packaging:

Concentrated products reducing plastic packaging by up to 80%

Refill systems replacing single-use containers

Recycled plastic content increasing across product ranges

Paper-based packaging alternatives emerging

Paper Product Evolution

Paper consumables became greener:

Recycled content now standard in many product lines

Bamboo and alternative fibre products entering the market

FSC and PEFC certification becoming expected

Reduced packaging and wrapping

Chemical Reformulation

Cleaning products went green:

Plant-based surfactants replacing petrochemicals

Biodegradable formulations standard for many applications

Reduced VOCs and fragrance chemicals

Enzyme and probiotic cleaning products gaining ground

Technology Integration

Smart solutions entered the janitorial space:

Connected Dispensers

IoT-enabled dispensing systems offer:

Real-time usage monitoring

Automatic reorder alerts

Usage analytics for planning

Waste reduction through controlled dispensing

Digital Ordering

Procurement became more efficient:

Online ordering platforms replacing phone/fax

Automated reordering systems

Mobile apps for inventory management

Integration with business purchasing systems

Quality Tracking

Technology enabling better quality control:

Batch tracking for product quality issues

Expiry date monitoring

Usage optimisation recommendations

Hygiene Awareness Remains High

Post-pandemic hygiene consciousness persists:

Hand Hygiene

Enhanced hand hygiene remains priority:

Hand sanitiser usage normalised

Touchless dispensing preferred

Higher expectations for washroom hygiene

Premium hand care products in demand

Surface Disinfection

Surface cleaning protocols maintained:

Regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces

Hospital-grade products in general settings

Documented cleaning protocols

Visible cleaning activities reassuring users

Air Quality Focus

Indoor air quality receiving attention:

Air purification products growing

HVAC cleaning awareness increased

Fragrance-free options for sensitive users

Workforce Considerations

Changing work patterns affect demand:

Hybrid Working Impact

Office occupancy patterns have changed:

Variable facility usage creating planning challenges

Peak day demand vs quiet day waste

Right-sizing supply orders more difficult

Flexible supply arrangements more valuable

Staff Expectations

Employees expect quality facilities:

Premium products signal employer care

Poor facilities affect recruitment and retention

Visible sustainability efforts valued by younger workers

Cleaning Staff Welfare

Attention to those using the products:

Ergonomic equipment reducing strain

Less harmful chemical formulations

Better training and resources

Recognition of essential role

Supply Chain Resilience

Recent disruptions reshaped priorities:

Local Sourcing

Benefits of local suppliers recognised:

Reduced transport vulnerability

Faster response to needs

Lower carbon footprint

Supporting local economy

Stock Holding

More businesses holding reserve stock:

Protection against shortages

Price hedge against increases

Supply security prioritised

Supplier Relationships

Transactional relationships becoming partnerships:

Regular communication valued

Flexibility during challenges

Joint problem-solving

Long-term commitments

What This Means for Your Business

Review Your Products

Consider whether your current products align with these trends:

Are you using sustainable options where available?

Could you reduce plastic in your supply chain?

Are your products meeting workforce expectations?

Evaluate Your Supplier

Does your supplier support where the industry is heading:

Do they offer sustainable alternatives?

Can they provide usage data and insights?

Are they investing in technology and innovation?

Do they offer flexible supply arrangements?

Plan for Change

Prepare for continued evolution:

Budget for potential product upgrades

Stay informed about new options

Be ready to adapt to new regulations

How Doves Stays Ahead

We continuously evolve our product range and service to stay current:

Growing range of sustainable products

Online ordering for convenience

Local supply for reliability

Expert advice on product selection