The Cleaning Industry’s Staffing Crisis

The UK’s cleaning industry is in the midst of a staffing crisis that’s pushing many businesses to the brink. With some turnover rates hitting a staggering 400%, it’s clear that something has to change. But there’s hope—through smart use of technology and a fresh take on workforce development, cleaning companies can build a more resilient and sustainable future.

A Growing Problem

According to a 2024 report from the European Labour Authority, 84% of occupations across Europe are facing shortages—cleaning roles being some of the hardest hit. In the UK alone, the cleaning sector employs around 1.47 million people, roughly 5% of the total workforce. But recruiting and retaining those workers has never been harder.

The sectors that rely most on cleaning—like retail, logistics, and facilities management—are feeling the impact. High churn rates, sometimes between 200–400% annually, mean businesses are constantly hiring, onboarding, and training new staff, draining time and resources.

What’s at Stake?

This isn’t just a staffing issue—it’s a business continuity risk. When there aren’t enough cleaners, companies struggle to meet contracts, and the quality of service declines. Remaining staff face burnout from picking up extra work, and unhappy customers may start to look elsewhere.

Financially, the cost of constant turnover is enormous. It’s a cycle: overworked staff leave, which increases pressure on those who remain, leading to more departures. At worst, companies have to turn down new contracts simply because they can’t staff them.

Can Technology Help?

Yes—and it already is. Forward-thinking cleaning companies are using smart, autonomous technology to help close the labour gap. Automation can handle repetitive, low-value tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on jobs that require a personal touch.

For example, companies like Tennant are using autonomous floor cleaners in airports, malls, and warehouses. These machines don’t replace people—they work alongside them, boosting productivity and even supplying real-time data to improve operations.

The added bonus? Many of these technologies also cut down on water and energy use, making them more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run.

Rethinking the Workforce

Technology is just one part of the puzzle. To really solve the staffing crisis, the industry must rethink how it attracts and retains talent.

That starts with ditching the idea that cleaning jobs are “dead ends.” By offering career pathways, training, and visible progression, businesses can attract people who want to build a future—not just fill a gap.

Upskilling is also key. Training staff to work with new machines and systems not only boosts performance but also improves engagement and retention. When people feel like they’re learning and growing, they’re more likely to stay.

A Smarter, More Sustainable Future

The cleaning industry is at a turning point. Companies that embrace innovation—both in technology and in workforce strategy—will be better equipped to survive current challenges and thrive in the future.

By treating tech and people as partners, not opposites, cleaning businesses can break the cycle of burnout and turnover, and instead build smarter, stronger, and more sustainable operations.

Partner with Castle (EU), and Reap the Benefits

Castle (EU) is dedicated to simplifying your life. Our commitment to sustainability, comprehensive staff training, and efficient product supply facilities all aim to save you time, cut your expenses, and elevate the quality of service you offer to your clients.

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.