Cleanzine: your weekly cleaning and hygiene industry newsletter 18th April 2024 Issue no. 1110
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Art Cleaning's work declared 'a masterpiece' at National Awards Ceremony
Art Cleaning, in Birmingham, took home two Federation of Window Cleaners' awards that were presented at the recent UK Cleaning Show.
Window cleaner Robert Baker, from Walsall, was presented with the UK's Window Cleaner of the Year Award for his 51-year commitment to the industry and for overcoming many challenges to continue doing the job he loves, while Art Cleaning achieved the second position as a runner-up in the Window Cleaning Company of the Year category.
Window cleaning specialist, Art Cleaning, is a highly-regarded Birmingham business with additional award wins, including the University of Birmingham's 2015 supplier of the year award - the University has been an Art Cleaning client for eight years.
"I love the industry," said Robert as he was presented with his trophy. "If I had to go back in time, I would do it all again and I was honoured to win the award for Window Cleaner of the Year."
Robert joined Art Cleaning in 2005 and has worked as a window cleaner since the age of 15. He comes from a long line of window cleaners, with his grandfather and father both having worked in the industry.
At the end of 2008, Robert was diagnosed with two forms of cancer and throughout 2009, underwent aggressive treatment to beat the disease. After just nine months, and by walking four miles every day to build his fitness levels back up, Robert returned to the job he loved, as a window cleaner at Art Cleaning. In 2015, at the age of 65, Robert was promoted to works foreman and to this day he has no intention of retiring.
Robert's employer, Art Cleaning, was recognised by the judges for the business's ongoing commitment, innovation to the industry, investment in employee training, strong client retention record and ongoing contribution to the community.
The company's managing director, Simon Hart, said: "We are incredibly proud to have been recognised by the Federation of Window Cleaners in both categories. Firstly, it was a great achievement for Art Cleaning to have come such a close second in winning Cleaning Company of the Year - we will make sure we get that top spot next time!
"Then for Robert to have won Window Cleaner of the Year was fantastic! Robert is an asset to the team and after 51 years in the window cleaning industry, this award is incredibly well deserved. Every company needs a Robert, and the day he hangs up his bucket will be a very sad day indeed."
Image (from left): Robert Baker, FWC secretary Beryl Murray, Scott Smith FWC executive
T: 0121 356 0491
W: www.artcleaning.co.uk
30th March 2017