This month, we sat down with Martin Leach from The Bendigo Cleaning Company to ask him why he supports Bendigo Foodshare and get to know a bit more about his award-winning cleaning business.
Tell us a little bit about your business?
The Bendigo Cleaning Company is Bendigo’s largest cleaning business and is an award-winning, ethical provider of quality cleaning services and janitorial products to all areas North Central Victoria.
The company was established in 2003 by Martin and Catherine Leach, who are well supported by General Manager, Esther Ryan, and a team of more than 80 experienced cleaners, technicians, leading hands, supervisors, and administrators.
The Bendigo Cleaning Company is an industry leader in sustainability, workplace safety, innovation, and business practices, continually seeking to improve the standing of cleaners in the community and to show leadership in ethical employment practices – paying correct award rates and entitlements.
The company has been recognised with awards for both business excellence and industry excellence. The Bendigo Cleaning Company was also one of the first regional cleaning companies in Australia to be awarded School Cleaning Panel Status.
The Bendigo Cleaning Company has systems and processes in place to ensure a smooth service at all times. Staff wear uniforms for easy identification and have Police Checks and Working With Children Cards. All equipment is checked by licensed technicians, and chemicals are Australian Made and compliant.
Unlike many other cleaning businesses, The Bendigo Cleaning Company is certified as fully compliant with regulations.
What services do you offer?
- Commercial and Industrial Cleaning Services
- School Cleaning
- Carpet Steam and Dry Cleaning
- Window and Solar Panel Cleaning
- Hard Floor restoration
- Tile and Grout Cleaning
- High-Pressure Cleaning
How long have you been in business?
The Bendigo Cleaning Company was established in 2003; initially traded as Bendigo Property Services. In 2016, we changed our name to The Bendigo Cleaning Company to better reflect the services we deliver. This year will see us celebrate 16 years in business.
What’s the secret to your longevity?
Planning, practice and dedication to the task.
I came to business from a high-performance sports background which focussed on training in four-year plans. This involved micro and macro plans, and this process of planning and training have been the bedrock our sustainable model of business.
Why do customers pick your business and keep coming back?
Our clients know that we deliver a great service. Word of mouth brings us new opportunities, and we are known for our ethical behaviours and processes. The honest way in which we service our clients gives them faith that they have chosen a reputable business and repeat custom ensures our viability.
Why is it essential for local businesses to give back to the community?
Being a local business that employs 80 plus people, we understand that the strength of a community lies in the strength and well-being of the members of that community. We see daily that under-employment and unemployment play havoc with peoples lives, and therefore if we want to be part of a thriving, fair and sustainable community, we need to give assistance and opportunities to as many as we can.
Why do you support Bendigo Foodshare?
Being a provider of cleaning services to schools, we see firsthand through the before and after-school programs, and the breakfast clubs in these schools that there is food poverty all around. Bendigo Foodshare is doing its part to try and reduce food poverty, and we do a little to help where we can. We are proud of the work Bendigo Foodshare do, and happy to be a supporter of the programs run.
What other local causes do you support?
Schools fetes, The Salvation Army, Righteous Pups Australia, the City of Greater Bendigo Portland Camps and various junior sports clubs and programs.