by
Lawton Brothers
| Nov 07, 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, facility managers across industries are looking ahead to what’s next. The cleaning and maintenance landscape continues to evolve—driven by technology, sustainability goals, and growing expectations for health and safety.
To stay competitive and efficient in 2026, organizations must adapt to emerging trends that are reshaping how facilities are cleaned, managed, and maintained. Here’s what to expect in the coming year—and how Lawton Bros can help your team stay ahead.
1. Automation and Smart Cleaning Technology
Automation is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s already transforming facility management. From robotic floor scrubbers that operate autonomously to connected equipment that reports maintenance needs, smart cleaning technology helps teams do more with less.
Automated solutions can reduce labor costs, improve consistency, and free up staff to focus on higher-priority tasks. These technologies also integrate with building management systems, providing real-time data on cleaning performance, energy usage, and equipment health.
Lawton Bros Pro Tip: Ask your Lawton Bros representative about our latest equipment featuring IoT connectivity and automated functions. We can help you determine which technologies offer the best ROI for your specific facility size and cleaning needs.
2. Touchless and Hygienic Design
The demand for touchless technology—like automatic faucets, soap dispensers, and paper towel systems—continues to rise. These systems not only improve user experience but also reduce the spread of germs in high-traffic areas.
Beyond restrooms, touchless innovations are appearing in door systems, elevators, and even cleaning tools, allowing for more hygienic maintenance and occupant safety.
Lawton Bros Pro Tip: Consider a restroom audit to identify where touchless upgrades could enhance hygiene and reduce maintenance calls. Lawton Bros offers a range of touchless dispensers and fixtures designed for durability and ease of use.
3. Data-Driven Cleaning and Analytics
Facility management is becoming more data-driven, with cleaning teams using analytics to improve efficiency and accountability. Smart sensors can monitor occupancy and usage patterns, helping teams prioritize high-traffic areas and reduce unnecessary labor.
This shift toward data-informed decision-making enables more precise cleaning schedules, lower supply waste, and better overall facility outcomes.
Lawton Bros Pro Tip: Partner with Lawton Bros to explore smart sensor solutions and data-tracking tools that can integrate seamlessly with your existing operations. Our team can help you leverage analytics to improve both performance and transparency.
4. Sustainability and ESG Alignment
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s now a key component of corporate strategy. Many organizations are prioritizing environmentally friendly cleaning programs that support ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals.
From Green Seal-certified products to energy-efficient equipment, eco-friendly cleaning solutions help reduce a facility’s environmental footprint while maintaining high performance standards.
Lawton Bros Pro Tip: Ask about our Green Cleaning Program. We’ll help you evaluate your current practices, select sustainable products, and align your facility’s cleaning strategy with corporate sustainability objectives.
5. Employee Training and Retention
With the continued challenge of staffing shortages, investing in training and development is more critical than ever. A well-trained cleaning team not only performs better but also feels more valued and confident in their work.
Modern training programs now include safety protocols, equipment operation, chemical handling, and even customer service—creating stronger, more adaptable teams.
Lawton Bros Pro Tip: Take advantage of Lawton Bros’ in-person and online training programs. Our certified trainers can help your staff stay current with the latest cleaning standards and compliance requirements.
Looking Ahead
The year ahead will bring new challenges—and even greater opportunities—for facility managers who embrace change. By focusing on innovation, data, sustainability, and workforce development, your facility can stay resilient and prepared for what’s next.
Lawton Bros has been helping organizations stay ahead of industry trends for nearly 80 years. From product selection to training and implementation, we’re here to help you build a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable operation in 2026.
📞 Contact your Lawton Bros representative today at 800-432-0813 to build your customized plan for 2025.
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