It's that time again. The boss hands you the assignment of collecting janitorial bids. As if you dont have enough to do!  So somewhere in between all of your other duties, you look over the specifications, make changes, send out invitations to bid. One by one, janitorial firms make their pitch and present their price.  There may have been a directive. Cut Costs, improve performance, usually both.  In the end, you hope you have made the right choice.. or at least not the wrong choice! The new janitorial crew comes in. There is some retraining involved. There problems with communication. Eventually these problems are worked out and .. if your lucky.. it's like that "Who" song... met the new boss... same as the old boss....  Well, don't get fooled again!

The most important phrase in your RFP, or ITB needs to be " Janitorial companies presenting proposals under this solicitation must use Green chemicals, Green equipment, and Green processes. They must demonstrate Green management and expertise, and be  Green Certified by an Independent 3rd party. "

Here is why. Companies who have been certified must have better trained workers. Companies who have made this commitment have a better informed management team in place.  Companies who have invested in newer equipment and training are more conscientious. They are more customer focused, ..and they will save you money!  That's right. They may have a higher price per square foot on their proposal , but it is proven that Green cleaning, when done correctly, by trained technicians, can account for savings upwards of $.40- $.50 per square foot per year.  Savings come from longer carpet life, furniture life, improved health and productivity of tenants and employees reduced water usage, and even energy savings.  Increased revenues can come from being a part of the green supply chain, and marketing your environmental stewardship.

More and more companies are realizing the advantage of working environmental strategy into their overall business strategy. Green cleaning can be an excellent start.

Email me if you'd like to know more.  james.mcsweeney@ikomar.com