The landscape of waste management is changing. By 31 March 2025, the Simpler Recycling legislative reforms will be in full swing, requiring businesses across England to adopt standardised recycling practices. This isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about creating a sustainable future and avoiding potential penalties. Let’s break down what these changes mean for your business.

Download Your Simpler Recycling Checklist Here: JR&Co - The Simpler Recycling Checklist

What You Need to Know

The Simpler Recycling reforms are being phased in, with larger businesses required to comply first. The goal is to ensure consistent recycling practices nationwide. At a minimum, your business will need to segregate the following materials:

• Dry Mixed Recycling: Including glass bottles and jars, metal cans and tins, plastic bottles, pots, tubs, and trays, and paper and cardboard.
• Food Waste: All food waste, including peelings, plate scrapings, and out-of-date food.
• General Waste: For non-recyclable items.

It is important to remember that these are minimum requirements, and more specific waste streams may be required.

How This Impacts Your Business

The Simpler Recycling reforms will necessitate significant operational adjustments for your business. To comply, you’ll need to:

• Implement Segregated Waste Streams: Provide clearly labelled, separate bins for dry mixed recycling, food waste, and general waste.
• Establish Collection Protocols: Ensure these materials are collected and processed through appropriate channels, including recycling, anaerobic digestion, or composting.
• Invest in Staff Training: Conduct comprehensive training programs to educate employees on proper waste segregation procedures.
• Allocate Resources: Prepare for the financial and logistical demands of new waste management infrastructure and processes.
• Mitigate Compliance Risks: Understand that non-compliance can result in substantial fines and potential business disruptions.
• Enhance Brand Image: Recognise the positive impact of effective waste management on your brand reputation and potential to attract environmentally conscious customers.

Planning ahead is crucial to ensure a smooth transition.

Remember that failure to comply could result in fines, so it’s important to get this right. At Julius Rutherfoord & Co. we’d be happy to help you achieve that.

JR&Co’s Role in a Cleaner, Compliant Environment

Beyond avoiding penalties, maintaining a clean and hygienic workplace is essential to employee well-being and productivity, and these new regulations directly impact this. By ensuring proper waste segregation and collection, we help you maintain both compliance and a healthy work environment. At JR&Co, we’re here to ensure your business makes a smooth and compliant transition.

We will ensure:

• Expert Guidance. We provide expert advice on designing and implementing efficient waste segregation systems, tailored to your specific needs.
• Guaranteed Sanitary Conditions: We will ensure your waste disposal areas are kept consistently clean and sanitary, preventing health hazards and maintaining a positive work environment.
• Proactive Bin Hygiene: We provide deep cleaning of bins and bin areas, eliminating odours and bacteria, and ensuring compliance with hygiene standards.
• Productive Workplaces: We will help ensure your workplace is a clean, productive, and compliant environment, enhancing your brand image and customer perception.

Next Steps

Don’t wait until the last minute. The 2025 deadline is approaching and early preparation is crucial—so give this your undivided attention now! Book a free consultation with our team to discuss your specific waste management needs and ensure your business stays compliant.

Download Your Simpler Recycling Checklist Here: JR&Co - The Simpler Recycling Checklist

At JR&Co, we believe that sustainability is a journey, not a destination. We’re constantly improving, adapting, and innovating to minimise our environmental impact. This pursuit of progress led us to The Sustainability Expo at Olympia last week, where we joined other businesses and sustainability leaders seeking practical insights and innovative solutions.

Vania Borges, our Quality, Sustainability & Environment Manager, said: “The event was a great opportunity to step back, listen, and learn. It will help us refine our own approach to sustainable and responsible cleaning.”

Here’s what Vania took away from the event and how it will shape our work at JR&Co.

1. Sustainability is about action, not intention

There’s no shortage of businesses talking about sustainability, but the real impact comes from turning words into action. The event highlighted how organisations across industries are moving beyond “quick wins” to make deep, lasting changes that prioritise people and the planet.

Many of the discussions reinforced the idea that it is not grand, unrealistic promises, but small, meaningful changes and consistent effort that truly drives progress.

This resonates deeply with our approach at JR&Co. We don’t just focus on individual sustainable actions; we embed sustainable thinking into every facet of our business. It’s not enough to just set targets; we integrate sustainability into everything we do—from the products we use to the training we provide our teams.

Here are some examples of significant steps we’ve already taken:

• Our Head Office is powered by 100% renewable energy, and we’ve electrified 95% of our fleet.
• Replaced paper site-files with digital QR codes, saving 14 trees each year.
• Invested in circular economy cleaning products, reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
• Continuously exploring new, non-toxic cleaning products that maintain hygiene without harming the environment.

3. AI and sustainability: two fast-changing worlds

Another topic that stood out was the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sustainability. Both fields are evolving at an incredible pace, and AI is increasingly being used to analyse sustainability data, optimise resource management, and improve decision-making.

“The rapid progression of both Sustainability and AI is creating new opportunities for integration. AI is already making data analysis more reliable, and in the future, sustainability reporting might be held to the same level of scrutiny as financial data.” – Vania

This has exciting implications for the cleaning industry. As AI-driven solutions continue to develop, they could help us further refine our sustainability strategies by reducing waste, improving efficiency, and ensuring even greater transparency.

5. Collaboration is the key to progress

The Sustainability Expo reinforced a crucial truth: no business can tackle sustainability alone.

Whether it’s through partnerships, industry collaboration, or sharing knowledge, we all have a role to play in pushing sustainability forward.

We believe that working together is the most powerful way to drive change. That’s why we actively engage with:

• Suppliers: We partner with suppliers who share our commitment to environmental and ethical values.
• Clients: We’re committed to helping our clients achieve their own sustainability goals.
• Industry Networks: We actively participate in industry events and sustainability networks to stay informed about the latest innovations and best practices.

When businesses come together with a shared purpose, the impact is far greater than what any of us can achieve alone. By working together, we can amplify our impact and create a more sustainable future for everyone.

October saw us proudly celebrating Thank Your Cleaner Day, a special occasion dedicated to recognising the incredible individuals who are the backbone of clean, safe, and welcoming environments across London. At JR&Co, this is a day we value, as it shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes who bring our ethos of undivided attention to life.

A day to reflect and celebrate

From bustling offices to busy schools, every clean space is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our cleaners. Thank Your Cleaner Day gave us the perfect opportunity to pause, connect, and show our gratitude in person.

Our Head Office Centres of Excellence joined forces with the operations teams, visiting sites across London to share their appreciation and offer small tokens of thanks to our on-site teams. From the early-morning starts to late-evening finishes, their focus and expertise never go unnoticed.

Capturing the spirit of the day

The day brought genuine moments of connection, with on-site recognition and thoughtful conversations highlighting the impact of our teams’ hard work.

Take a look at the highlights from the day in our Thank Your Cleaner Day video. It perfectly captures the energy, gratitude, and team spirit that define JR&Co.

Why we celebrate

Cleaners do so much more than keep spaces tidy—they create environments where people can feel comfortable, productive, and safe. At JR&Co, we see this every day. We know the importance of empowering our cleaners with excellent training, fair wages, and the recognition they deserve.

But Thank Your Cleaner Day goes beyond JR&Co. It’s a reminder for everyone to take a moment to appreciate those who ensure our spaces are ready for whatever the day brings.

Thank You to our JR&Co Heroes

To all our cleaners: thank you. You are the heart of everything we do. Your commitment and care make a tangible difference, not just to our clients but to everyone who steps into the spaces you keep so meticulously clean.

Every clean desk, every shining floor, and every spotless restroom is a reflection of your dedication. We are proud to have you as part of our JR&Co family.

Here’s to you, our cleaning heroes. Thank you for all that you do!

Julius Rutherfoord & Co (JR&Co), one of London’s largest independent cleaning companies, is proud to announce its official B Corp certification. This recognition underscores JR&Co’s commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices, placing it among a global community of companies dedicated to using business as a force for good.

B Corp certification is awarded to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. As a certified B Corp, JR&Co now joins a prestigious group of businesses focused on creating positive impacts across their operations. The certification is a testament to JR&Co’s ongoing commitment to aligning its practices with broader societal values, ensuring that each decision considers the wellbeing of clients, employees, communities, and the environment.

For JR&Co’s clients, partnering with a certified B Corp means choosing a provider that not only delivers exceptional cleaning but also prioritises sustainability and ethical practices at every level. By upholding the values embedded in the B Corp certification, JR&Co sets a new benchmark for responsible business in the cleaning industry.

For more information about JR&Co’s B Corp certification and its continued dedication to responsible business, please visit www.juliusrutherfoord.co.uk.

About Julius Rutherfoord & Co

Founded in 1994 by two brothers-in-law, Julius Rutherfoord & Co is one of London’s largest independent cleaning companies, known for its attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality cleaning services. JR&Co serves a range of commercial clients, transforming spaces to support productivity, health, and wellbeing.

At JR&Co, we’re always enhancing our services to meet the highest standards.

Our Training Academy just received a significant upgrade, with new flooring surfaces that reflect the latest trends in our clients’ environments. This update ensures that our teams train in real-world conditions, staying sharp and prepared to deliver the meticulous and expert service we’re known for.

Just as we completed this upgrade, we passed our BICSc Annual Audit and successfully renewed our BICSc Assessor Licence until 2025! The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) is the industry’s leading body for professional standards and education, and their annual audit ensures we maintain our commitment to best practices and safety.

Annie Bove, HR Officer, and Jessica Carranza, Mobilisation and Project Manager, who played a key role in leading us through the audit process, are now ready to continue training our teams to the highest standards. With the renewal of our BICSc Assessor Licence, we can confidently maintain our focus on developing cleaning professionals who are equipped to create cleaner, safer environments in line with industry-leading practices.

At JR&Co, our values – meticulous attention to detail, deep expertise, a personal touch, and a passion for creating clean and safe spaces – guide everything we do. The refreshed academy and our continued BICSc certification reaffirm our ongoing dedication to providing the best service possible.

We’re proud of the strides we’ve made and are excited to keep pushing forward for our clients!

We are thrilled to announce that JR&Co, in partnership with Sylvia Young Theatre School (SYTS), has been named a finalist for the PFM Partnership Awards 2024 in the “Partners in SME” category. This prestigious recognition highlights our dedication to delivering outstanding cleaning services and fostering a safe, sustainable, and innovative learning environment.

A Partnership Built on Excellence

Our collaboration with SYTS began in 2022, driven by a shared vision of creating an meticulously clean educational setting. Leveraging our extensive experience with esteemed institutions like the Royal Academy of Dance, we tailored our services to meet the unique needs of SYTS. Our commitment to excellence and mutual goals has solidified a partnership built on trust and results.

Commitment to Safety and Security

Safety is the cornerstone of our operations. We employ rigorous security measures to ensure that only highly vetted and qualified personnel work at SYTS. Our comprehensive recruitment and vetting process includes airport-style security vetting, biometric checks, and real-time attendance tracking using facial recognition tablets. These measures have resulted in a flawless safety record, with zero security breaches.

Sustainability and Innovation

Sustainability is at the heart of our operations. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices includes using biodegradable cleaning agents, eliminating single-use plastics, and minimising water usage. These efforts have significantly cut carbon emissions and enhanced SYTS’s corporate social responsibility profile. Innovations like OdorBac cleaning fluid and pulse mopping systems have boosted productivity and maintained high cleanliness standards, directly contributing to elevating student wellbeing.

Flexibility and Responsiveness

Our ability to adapt to SYTS’s dynamic needs sets us apart. Whether managing fluctuating student numbers, special events, or emergencies, we deliver tailored solutions with precision and speed. Our Corrective Action Procedure guarantees immediate resolution of issues, enhancing overall service delivery.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

This recognition as a finalist for the PFM Partnership Awards 2024 is a reflection of our shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. We are proud of our journey with Sylvia Young Theatre School and look forward to continuing our collaboration to create an environment where creativity and talent can truly thrive.

Thank you to Sylvia Young Theatre School for their trust and partnership. Together, we are setting new standards in facilities management within the educational sector.

Stay tuned for more updates and wish us luck at the awards!

Established over 30 years ago, the Kimberly-Clark Professional™ Golden Service Awards are renowned as the ultimate accolade of excellence for cleaning teams.

Covering diverse sectors such as office and education, they are often dubbed the ‘Oscars of the Cleaning Industry’. These awards not only acknowledge outstanding performance and innovation but also establish the benchmarks that will guide industry standards in the coming year.

At JR&Co, our unwavering commitment to delivering excellence to each of our clients is a daily practice, and we couldn’t be happier to announce that our QEII team has been shortlisted as finalists for the ‘Cleaning Team of the Year’ Award.

The judging is carried out independently by The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc), and we will now be submitted to the next stage, which will include site visits.

The judges have announced there was a 30 percent increase in entries this year. The winners will be announced on Thursday the 23rd of May 2024 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

This achievement is testament to our incredible teamwork, combining our forces and ensuring exceptional services for our clients. Congratulations to this expert and passionate team and a huge thank you to everyone involved!

In the fast-paced world of business, adaptability, and commitment to excellence are paramount.

At JR&Co, we understand this well and are happy to share that we have recently completed a rigorous recertification process with NQA Management Systems. We have not just passed but passed with flying colours! This recertification reaffirms our commitment to delivering top-notch quality, environmental sustainability, and safety in everything we do.

Our Ongoing Commitment to ISO Standards

Since our initial certification in 2012, JR&Co has continuously demonstrated its dedication to upholding the highest industry standards. This commitment has been the cornerstone of our success, ensuring the seamless fulfillment of customer and stakeholder requirements. Let’s delve into the three ISO standards we have been recertified for and explore what this means for our company and clients.

ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems

Quality is at the heart of everything we do at JR&Co. ISO 9001:2015 certification signifies our unwavering dedication to maintaining and improving our quality management systems. It’s a testament to our commitment to consistently provide products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations.

With this recertification, our clients can rest assured that they are working with a company that places quality at the forefront of its operations. Every process, from project planning to execution, is meticulously managed to ensure the highest standards of quality.

ISO 14001:2015 Environment Management Systems

We take our environmental responsibility very seriously. Achieving ISO 14001:2015 recertification underscores our commitment to minimising our environmental impact. We’ve implemented comprehensive environmental management systems that help us identify and mitigate risks, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.

This recertification assures our clients and partners that we prioritise eco-friendly practices. By choosing JR&Co, they align themselves with a company that actively contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.

ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health & Safety

The safety and wellbeing of our employees, clients, and all stakeholders are of paramount importance to us. ISO 45001:2018 recertification is a reflection of our robust occupational health and safety management systems. It demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing a safe and secure work environment.

Our dedication to safety not only safeguards our workforce but also enhances the overall quality of our service delivery. Clients can have peace of mind knowing that we prioritise safety in every project we undertake.

Achieving these recertifications reaffirms our dedication to excellence in quality, environmental practices, and safety. We owe this success to our hardworking teams who take immense pride in achieving and maintaining these high standards.

As we move forward, we remain committed to delivering expert and meticulous service. We are confident that our continued adherence to these ISO standards will not only benefit our clients but also contribute positively to the industries we serve and the world at large.

Julius Rutherfoord & Co, one of London’s largest independent cleaning companies, has successfully retained one of its most prestigious contracts, through a competitive tender process.

The contract, awarded by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), underlines the company’s exceptional commitment to excellence and service.

JR&Co embarked on its partnership with the UGLE, which is the governing body of Freemasonry, in September 2016. The Premier Grand Lodge was founded in London in 1717 and became the United Grand Lodge of England in 1813.

With a global membership of 175,000 and over 7,000 Lodges, UGLE occupies a unique place of influence. Its headquarters is at Freemasons’ Hall, a stunning Grade II* listed Art Deco building that proudly stands on Great Queen Street in Covent Garden, London.

JR&Co’s contract retention will see them continue to provide cleaning and washroom services to the Covent Garden hot spot. The renewal was awarded due to the company’s ability to deliver and excel at customer service; its proactive cleaning approach and the flexibility it demonstrates in its day-to-day service offering.

Richard Jewitt, Director of Building Services at UGLE, said: “We are very pleased that JR&Co has been reappointed as our contract cleaners. Over the last 7 years, their on-site team has consistently delivered very high standards day in and day out for us, and has looked after our unique building, so it is always clean and always looking great.”

Managing Director, Chris Jarvis, comments on the news: “The extension of this contract is testament to the hard work of our dedicated people. At JR&Co, we believe that our business success is based on the service delivered by our expert teams, which is why we pay such great attention to making sure that they are rewarded and recognised.”

Jarvis continues, “Client satisfaction means a lot to us at JR&Co. We have built a market-leading reputation off the back of getting to know our clients, their businesses, and their needs. There is no greater endorsement from a client than a contract extension, as it demonstrates the value they place on us as a part of their own team.”

JR&Co was incorporated in 1994 by two brothers-in-law, and passionately believes that clients should receive a truly professional and high-quality service, one that delivers meticulously cleaned premises, cost-effectively and securely.

We’ve been featured in Tomorrow’s FM!

Our HR Director, Marian Chaney, is in the magazine discussing all things culture.

Marian argues that creating a positive employee culture will motivate your workforce – great for both your employees and your business’s commerciality.

We all know that the cleaning workforce is often deeply undervalued, with staff turnover high and motivation lacking. But through techniques such as recognition and rewards, focus groups, ‘thank you’ events, good pay and a family feel, you can build a culture that lets employees thrive. It’s worked for us!

Have a read of the article to learn how JR&Co is championing a positive working culture: https://content.yudu.com/web/1jybr/0A1vxp9/TFMFeb23/html/index.html?page=26&origin=reader