The Housekeeper's Wishlist: Expectations from a hygiene solutions provider

 

Industry experts share the common expectations housekeepers have from their suppliers.

 

Filed under
Housekeeping
 
November 18, 2024
 
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The Housekeeper's Wishlist: Expectations from a hygiene solutions provider
 

In the rapidly evolving hospitality industry, housekeepers have specific expectations from hygiene solutions providers that go beyond just product quality. They seek reliable suppliers who deliver high-performance, eco-friendly products that enhance cleaning efficiency while ensuring the safety of both staff and guests. Housekeepers prioritize suppliers who offer comprehensive training and support, enabling effective use of hygiene solutions. Additionally, timely delivery and a strong supply chain are critical to maintaining operational continuity. By aligning with housekeepers' needs for quality, sustainability, and support, hygiene solutions providers can foster successful partnerships that elevate overall service standards and guest satisfaction.

We spoke to industry experts to understand the housekeeper’s expectations from a hygiene solutions provider. 

The Executive Housekeeper’s Guide to Supplier Expectations in Hospitality

Bilal Areej Khan, Executive Housekeeper, Frasers Hospitality strongly believes that the expectations from suppliers regarding the quality and durability of products are paramount to ensuring exceptional guest experiences and maintaining operational efficiency. A primary expectation is that all supplied items, from linens to cleaning supplies, should be of the highest quality, capable of withstanding frequent use and laundering without compromising their integrity. Durability is crucial; products must maintain their appearance and functionality over time, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.

In today’s hospitality landscape, sustainability and eco-friendliness are not merely trends but essential components of a responsible supply chain. Suppliers should provide products made from sustainable materials, emphasizing biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable options. This commitment not only aligns with the hotel’s green initiatives but also resonates with environmentally conscious guests who prioritize eco-friendly practices in their travel choices.

Furthermore, cost-effectiveness is a significant consideration. While it is important to invest in high-quality and sustainable products, the supplier must offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. A reliable supply chain is integral to this expectation; suppliers should demonstrate an ability to source materials sustainably while maintaining affordability. This balance is vital to ensure that the hotel can uphold its standards while managing budget constraints effectively.

Timely delivery is another critical aspect of the supplier relationship. The Housekeeping Department relies on a consistent flow of supplies to maintain operational continuity. Suppliers must adhere to agreed-upon delivery schedules to avoid disruptions in service. This reliability not only enhances the efficiency of housekeeping operations but also ensures that the hotel can consistently present a clean and welcoming environment for guests.

Quality, Sustainability, and Support

Carla Beaino, Rooms Division Manager and Housekeeping Expert, Oman, voices the housekeeping fraternity and maintains that housekeeping is an essential aspect of maintaining any establishment, be it a hotel, hospital, or residential complex. Housekeepers play a vital role in ensuring cleanliness and hygiene, and their effectiveness largely depends on the products they use. Therefore, it is crucial for suppliers to understand and meet the expectations of housekeepers in various areas. Below are key expectations that housekeepers have from their suppliers. She suggests that suppliers focus on quality, durability, cost and sustainability to meet the current needs of a housekeeper.

Quality and Durability of Products:

One of the foremost expectations housekeepers have is the quality and durability of the products they procure. High-quality materials lead to better performance and extended lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. For example, durable cleaning tools, chemical solutions, and linens not only perform better but also withstand the rigors of daily use. Housekeepers often face heavy workloads, and reliable products help them operate efficiently. Suppliers who prioritize quality will earn the trust of housekeepers, fostering long-term relationships.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options:

In our current era, sustainability is a significant concern for many industries, including housekeeping. Housekeepers are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly products that minimize harm to the environment. Suppliers who offer sustainable options, such as biodegradable cleaning agents, compostable waste bags, or energy-efficient appliances, will meet the rising demand for eco-conscious housekeeping. Not only do these products align with environmental values, but they also enhance the overall brand image of establishments. Housekeepers appreciate suppliers who are committed to sustainability, as it reflects a broader responsibility to protect the planet.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value:

Cost is always a crucial consideration for housekeepers when sourcing supplies. However, it's not just about the initial price; it's also about overall value. Housekeepers expect suppliers to provide competitive pricing without compromising on quality. This means that suppliers should offer products that deliver results while remaining within budget constraints. Bulk purchasing options, discounts for loyal customers, and transparent pricing strategies enhance the value proposition. Suppliers who understand the financial limitations of their clients while providing effective solutions will undoubtedly stand out in a competitive market. 

Understanding the expectations of housekeepers is essential for suppliers aiming to succeed in the market. By focusing on quality, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, reliable deliveries, and robust support, suppliers can establish strong partnerships with housekeepers. Meeting these expectations not only enhances the day-to-day operations of housekeeping but also contributes to the overall success of the establishments they serve. As the demands of the industry continue to evolve, suppliers who remain attentive to these expectations will undoubtedly thrive. 

The Backbone of Housekeeping: Reliable Supply Chains and Training Support

Nadeem Saleem, Cluster Executive Housekeeper, HMH Hotel Group suggests that reliability and training are the pillars of a housekeeper’s expectations.

Reliable Supply Chain and Timely Deliveries

Consistent availability of products is essential to avoid disruptions in daily operations, as delays or shortages can impact the quality of service. Housekeeping teams rely on suppliers to deliver products as scheduled, ensuring they have the necessary materials when needed. A dependable supply chain also builds trust and strengthens long-term partnerships. Ultimately, housekeepers seek suppliers who can guarantee prompt and reliable deliveries, helping them maintain smooth, efficient operations without interruption.

Training and Product Support

To ensure proper maintenance and usage, housekeepers need training and product support. Suppliers provide best practices for using cleaning products, equipment, and tools. Training from suppliers is vital for smooth operations and better performance outcomes, which ensures housekeeping teams can maximize the benefits of their products.

A Proactive Approach to Meet Future Demands: A Suppliers Perspective

Gianni Graziolli, Founder and Co-Owner, TREO believes that the cleaning industry is advancing at a faster pace than the knowledge base within many purchasing departments, while the operations team remains more up-to-date. Today, his mission extends beyond simply meeting customer demands. He aims to proactively offer alternative, sustainable products and efficient procedures while also staying current on innovations and trends in the international market.

His approach includes Site Visits, Live Demonstrations, and Post-Delivery Training—three pillars critical to the success of his commercial proposals. Through Site Visits, TREO gains a deeper understanding of end-user needs, enabling us to suggest tailored solutions that go beyond habitual operational practices. Live Demonstrations allow the company to field-test its proposals, ensuring they meet both customer expectations and their own standards, while Training Sessions ensure users gain maximum benefit from their solutions.

They maintain ongoing support for the first few weeks after implementation through surveys, promptly addressing any complaints by visiting the site to resolve issues. This method enables them to anticipate and quickly address any performance gaps.

Driven by passion, professionalism, and curiosity, they continually seek eco-friendly solutions and focus on minimizing waste, encouraging recycling, and reusing materials, all while aiming to reduce costs and pollution. They believe that everyone has a role in protecting the planet by reducing negative impacts on both human health and the environment.