Cleaning, Hygiene and Waste Sector Shows Continued Growth and Resilience

The UK’s cleaning, hygiene and waste industry continues to demonstrate strong and steady growth, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most important economic contributors. Latest figures indicate the sector is now valued at almost £72 billion, highlighting both its scale and its ongoing importance to businesses, public services and communities nationwide.

This increase represents a notable rise from the revised £67.7 billion reported for 2022. The upward trend confirms the sector’s place among the UK’s top ten industries, reflecting sustained demand for professional cleaning, facilities management and waste services across both the public and private sectors. As organisations place greater emphasis on hygiene standards, environmental responsibility and workplace wellbeing, the industry’s role has become more visible and more critical than ever before.

Workforce and Business Numbers Continue to Rise

Employment within the sector has also seen gradual expansion. The total number of people working across cleaning, hygiene and waste services has reached approximately 1.51 million — around 5% of the entire UK workforce. This represents an increase from 1.49 million the previous year and underlines the industry’s importance as a major employer.

Business numbers are following a similar upward trajectory. In 2025, there were 78,915 companies operating within the sector, compared with 77,535 in 2024. While growth is steady rather than rapid, the consistent increase suggests ongoing opportunities for both new entrants and established providers.

A defining characteristic of the industry is its highly fragmented and competitive nature. Smaller firms dominate the landscape, with around 83% classified as micro-businesses employing fewer than ten people. Overall, more than 99% of organisations in the sector are privately owned, which contributes to a diverse and entrepreneurial marketplace.

Facilities Management Leads Sector Revenue

Breaking down industry turnover reveals the significant role of facilities management, which accounts for close to 46% of total revenue. Waste and resource management follows at 26%, while cleaning activities contribute 18%. Landscape services make up nearly 10% of the sector’s overall value.

This distribution highlights how the industry has evolved beyond traditional cleaning services. Many providers now offer integrated, multi-service solutions that combine cleaning, maintenance, waste handling and environmental management under a single contract. Clients increasingly favour these bundled services for efficiency, compliance and cost control.

Skills Development and Training Remain Key Strengths

One of the sector’s positive developments is the continued focus on professionalisation and workforce development. Initiatives such as the UK Cleaning Career Development Zone are helping to centralise information about training, qualifications and career pathways, making it easier for both employers and jobseekers to navigate opportunities within the industry.

The growing uptake of the Level 2 Cleaning Hygiene Operative apprenticeship is another encouraging sign. Apprenticeships are playing an increasingly important role in attracting new entrants, supporting career progression and raising standards across the profession. As expectations around hygiene, infection control and sustainability continue to rise, structured training will remain essential.

Ongoing Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite the positive growth story, the sector continues to face several well-documented challenges. Recruitment remains a persistent issue, with many employers reporting difficulties in attracting and retaining staff. An ageing workforce adds further pressure, particularly as demand for services continues to expand.

Industry leaders also continue to call for greater recognition from government and policymakers. Given the sector’s size, economic contribution and essential role in public health and infrastructure, many stakeholders believe it deserves higher visibility and stronger strategic support.

The latest annual research provides a comprehensive overview of the cleaning, hygiene and waste sector, covering workforce demographics, pay and working patterns, and detailed analysis of sub-sectors ranging from pest control to caretaking services. The data paints a picture of an industry that is both resilient and evolving — one that combines steady growth with ongoing structural challenges.

Overall, the sector remains a cornerstone of the UK economy and an essential service that underpins safe, healthy and well-maintained environments across the country. With continued investment in skills, technology and workforce development, the industry is well positioned to maintain its upward trajectory in the years ahead.

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Whether you’re just starting out in the cleaning industry or striving to advance your business, we’re your partners in progress, ready to assist, innovate, and motivate. Contact our friendly team today for further details on how we can meet your specific requirements.