Distributors Provide Stability in Uncertain Times 

Everywhere you turn for news, reports include the word "uncertainty." There's uncertainty over how tariffs will impact product and equipment costs. Experts are uncertain of what administration budget proposals mean for environmental initiatives and regulations or funding for hospitals. And there is uncertainty whether federal funding restrictions will change cleaning in educational facilities.  

While the industry waits for answers to these questions, end users are starting to plan for the worst, presenting an opportunity for jan/san distributors.   

Over the last couple months, I've been contacted by a number of end users looking for help. Most of them oversee custodial operations in K-12 districts or at public universities, but all of them mentioned the threat of federal budget restrictions.  

According to reports, billions of dollars in federal funding for educational facilities have been frozen. Most of these dollars were earmarked for after-school programs, English language acquisition, adult education, and others. Unfortunately, in many cases, cleaning managers still feel the pinch as their resources are being tapped to make up for budget shortfalls in other areas. Managers I've spoken with are concerned that programs and staff could be eliminated if funding isn't restored.  

So how can distributors help? Departments are tasked with doing more with less — less bodies, less time, and less budget — and end users are looking for advice and training.  

Cleaning managers are exploring robotics and ways newer technology can help create efficiencies. Distributors should be prepared to share where automation can easily slide into existing programs. Be ready to provide the return on investment that justifies the higher price tag. 

They are also looking for training, even for long-standing staff. Are there better, more efficient ways to get the work done? Every little bit will help, especially with the staffing challenges end users are experiencing. 

A shortage of qualified applicants paired with budget restrictions have forced many cleaning departments to reconsider cleaning frequencies. Where can distributors offer advice to trimming back tasks and frequencies without impacting health and wellness? Be prepared to explain both the pros and cons of cutting cleaning programs. 

Distributors are the resource end users need to help navigate the challenges on the horizon. In a sea of uncertainty, end users should know that partnering with the distributor is something they can be certain about.