ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

The European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards are officially open for entries for 2026, once again inviting professionals from across the cleaning and hygiene sector to put forward their achievements for industry-wide recognition.

Founded and organised by European Cleaning Journal, the awards are now entering their ninth year. They have now firmly established themselves as one of the most respected benchmarks of excellence in the European cleaning and hygiene industry. Service providers, manufacturers, distributors and individuals are encouraged to submit nominations celebrating innovation, leadership, sustainability and best practice from the past year.

The European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards 2026 will recognise excellence across the following 11 categories:

• Digital Transformation
• Investment in Training and People Development
• Excellence in Client/Contractor Partnerships
• Sustainability - Best Practice (Service Provider)
• Sustainability - Best Practice (Manufacturer)
• Commitment to Diversity in the Workforce
• Best Initiative Raising the Profile of the Cleaning Sector
• Technological Innovation of the Year
• Leader of the Year
• Rising Star Award
• Best Company to Work For

New partnership

New for 2026, Interclean Amsterdam has been confirmed as as Event Partner. This collaboration brings together two of the most respected platforms in the global cleaning and hygiene industry, combining reach, expertise and a shared ambition to champion excellence, progress and professionalism across the sector.

The partnership strengthens the awards' pan-European and international profile, reinforcing their role in recognising the organisations and individuals shaping the future of professional cleaning and hygiene.

ECJ editor Michelle Marshall said: "Each year the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards showcase the innovation, professionalism and impact of our industry across Europe. We look forward to reading your entries and hearing about your achievements over the coming months."

How to enter

Companies and individuals are invited to submit their nominations for the awards through the official website at www.echawards.com. The deadline is May 1 2026.

Follow ECJ's LinkedIn page for updates, tips and more.

Awards ceremony

The European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards 2026 gala dinner will take place on Thursday October 8 this year at Pueblo Español in Palma de Mallorca. Set within an architectural showcase inspired by Spain's most iconic towns and monuments, the venue provides a striking backdrop for a night of celebration.

Visit echawards.com to find out more about getting involved.