cleaners edge logo
update

Cleaners Edge

From Van to Victory - Helping Pros Clean Up
update
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Business & Marketing
    • Technical Skills & How-To
    • Equipment & Product Reviews
    • Industry News & Events
    • Operator Success Stories
    • Training & Certification
    • Business Tools & Technology
    • Consumer Education
  • Profiles
March 31.2026
2 Minutes Read

How ACI's Centennial Gala Transformed Into Charitable Impact

Elegant gala attendees celebrate fundraising for water access charities with a large donation check.


ACI Makes a Splash With Charitable Initiatives

The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) recently celebrated its milestone 100th anniversary by hosting a memorable Annual Meeting & Industry Convention at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Florida. This centennial milestone was not just about glitzy ceremonies and formalities; it was about giving back to the community. ACI members came together to raise an impressive $100,000 to improve access to hygiene, health, and clean water through various engaging activities.

Fun and Fundraising: The Charity Duck Race

At the heart of the celebration was the ACI Charity Duck Race, which has now become a 14-year tradition. Sponsored by Shell Chemical LP, this engaging event took place at the Lazy River Water Park, where brightly decorated rubber ducks raced toward the finish line, cheered on by enthusiastic attendees. With ticket sales from a special keynote lunch featuring Mike Rowe and donations collected at Fill it Forward water refill stations, ACI significantly contributed to fostering a clean and healthy environment for all.

Supporting Important Causes

The funds raised during these initiatives will primarily benefit The WASH Foundation, an organization that has evolved from the Clean the World Foundation. The WASH Foundation focuses on breaking the cycle of hygiene poverty by ensuring communities receive the necessary resources, including soap and clean water. Additionally, the Duck Race also supported DigDeep, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring every American has access to clean, running water at home. As Jennifer Abril, President and CEO of ACI, states, “We are proud to honor our legacy by supporting organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives.”

The Big Picture: Why Hygiene Matters

In our ever-evolving world, the significance of hygiene and accessibility to clean water cannot be overstated. These fundamental needs are at the forefront of ACI’s mission and highlight the vital work their initiatives contribute to communities both locally and globally. Initiatives like ACI’s charity events not only fund crucial projects but also raise awareness and inspire collective action towards a healthier society.

Looking Ahead: ACI's Commitment to Community Support

As ACI steps into the next 100 years, its commitment to supporting health, hygiene, and clean water access will likely stay strong. The organization’s dedication to these causes serves as a model for how other industries can contribute positively to society. As we reflect on ACI's past, it is evident that the organization serves as a catalyst for growth and change, bringing together community members and companies alike to help uplift those in need.

Through their legacy initiatives and forward-thinking approach, ACI continues to create a ripple effect of positive impact, inspiring similar philanthropic endeavors across various sectors. For those looking to get involved, consider supporting local and global initiatives advocating for hygiene and water access, amplifying the enthusiasm and compassion sparked by ACI's dedication.


Industry News & Events

2 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Please complete the captcha to submit your comment.
Related Posts All Posts
05.14.2026

Christeyns North America Grand Opening: A New Era of Innovation

Update Celebrating Innovation: The Grand Opening of Christeyns North America Christeyns North America recently celebrated the grand opening of its new corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility in Greenville, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey. This state-of-the-art facility is more than just a building; it represents a long-term commitment to innovation and excellence in the commercial cleaning industry. A Unified Vision for Growth For the first time, Christeyns has brought its corporate offices and manufacturing operations under one roof. As COO and CTO Ryan Cotroneo aptly said, “This facility is a reflection of where we are—and more importantly, where we are going.” This unified space is designed to enhance product development capabilities and expand manufacturing capacity, ensuring that Christeyns can respond to customer needs more swiftly than ever before. Community Impact: A Boost for Greenville The investment in this new facility signifies more than just corporative advancement; it is a strong affirmation of growth in the Greenville community. Mayor P.J. Connelly highlighted the positive effects on local economic health, citing that the arrival of such a forward-thinking organization reinforces Greenville's reputation as an innovative manufacturing hub. Josh Lewis, President & CEO of Invest Greenville, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the long-term benefits this investment will bring to the region. Advanced Capabilities Lead to Enhanced Quality This facility boasts modern production systems and dedicated research and development spaces, allowing for smoother, more efficient operations. The integration of advanced quality control processes and dedicated R&D areas lays the groundwork for improved product performance consistency. By revolutionizing communication between teams, Christeyns aims to accelerate innovation and continuously raise the bar in the quality of its cleaning products. Fostering a Stronger Company Culture Unified operations don’t just boost productivity; they also foster a stronger company culture. With teams working closely together in one location, collaboration flourishes, bringing fresh ideas from concept to production. As CEO Josh Lilley pointed out, this collaborative environment strengthens the organization as a whole, better positioning them to serve clients effectively. It’s a strategy that not only promises internal growth but also translates into brighter outcomes for customers. The Future Looks Bright As Christeyns North America forges ahead, the new facility positions the company to evolve its technologies and services continually. The opening ceremony included tours of the facility, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the capabilities that are poised to support the next phase of growth. With every innovation, Christeyns is set to not only meet but exceed customer expectations. Final Thoughts: Embracing Opportunity The grand opening of Christeyns North America’s headquarters is a reflection of the company’s deep-rooted commitment to innovation and community development. For those in the industry, the consolidation of their operations signals a promising future filled with advanced solutions and collaborative efforts. As the company embraces this new chapter, the local community and customers alike can expect benefits that will resonate for years to come.

05.12.2026

Facing Supply Chain Challenges: The Aftermath of the Kimberly-Clark Facility Fire

Update A Challenging Incident for Kimberly-Clark In a shocking event, a six-alarm fire erupted at the Kimberly-Clark facility in Ontario, California, recently devastating the extensive 1.2 million-square-foot warehouse. While the flames were ultimately contained by the heroic efforts of around 140 firefighters from various departments, the incident has raised serious alarms about potential disruptions in the paper goods market. As Kimberly-Clark produces essential tissue, paper, and personal care products for approximately 50 million consumers, this fire threatens to create supply chain shortages that could ripple through not just the West Coast, but potentially affect national markets. Safety First: Evacuation and Emergency Response Fortunately, all employees present during the fire were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported. However, the investigation into how this disaster occurred has taken a serious turn—an employee has since been taken into custody on arson charges. Such developments highlight not only the urgency of the situation but also underline the importance of safety protocols in high-stakes environments like manufacturing and warehousing. Broader Implications for the Cleaning Industry As the aftermath of the fire unfolds, the implications for the commercial cleaning industry grow even more complex. This incident adds to the existing stressors faced by cleaning professionals, including challenges related to global tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and regulation compliance. In this context, strategic partnerships within the industry could be crucial. It is essential now more than ever for companies to forge relationships that offer flexibility and resilience in their supply chains, as unforeseen events like this can heavily impact operational continuity. A Focus on Air Quality and Indoor Health In response to the fire's intensity, local authorities have issued air quality advisories for the surrounding area, urging caution due to smoke and ash. While the advisory mainly concerns outdoor air quality, it also raises awareness of indoor air health—a critical concern for facilities located nearby. Employers and facility managers are encouraged to take proactive steps, such as enhancing HVAC filtration systems, utilizing air quality sensors, and committing to thorough cleaning and disinfection practices. This is vital to ensure the health and safety of employees and patrons alike. The Path Forward: Building Resilience and Recovery This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of supply chains. Businesses in the cleaning and paper goods industries should examine their existing strategies and consider proactive measures to build resilience. Hurricane season, potential shortages, and unpredictable events need to be accounted for in survival plans. By investing in strategic partnerships, enhancing operational flexibility, and prioritizing indoor air quality, companies can better position themselves to navigate similar challenges in the future. As we reflect on the implications of the Kimberly-Clark facility fire, let’s champion proactive strategies that promote safety, resilience, and community strength. The cleaning industry has a critical role to play in ensuring that we emerge from this incident with not just lessons learned but actionable insights that enhance the health of our communities.

05.10.2026

Strengthening Supplier Relationships: Key to Success in Cleaning Industry

Update Celebrating Collaboration in the Cleaning Industry In a festive atmosphere at the annual Supplier Trade Show in Las Vegas, Network Distribution prominently recognized its key suppliers, underscoring the importance of partnerships in the cleaning industry. Alan Tomblin, the President and CEO of Network, emphasized how the collective success of the organization is deeply intertwined with the innovative contributions of its suppliers. Each award highlighted not just exemplary service but a commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration that can continually elevate industry standards. Why Supplier Relationships Matter Strong supplier partnerships can significantly impact operational efficiency and service delivery. These relationships foster knowledge sharing and innovation, enabling cleaning businesses to better meet customer needs. For instance, GP Pro, named Supplier of the Year at the event, exemplifies how integrated solutions lead to substantial value. Their approach to understanding client requirements and delivering tailored offerings not only streamlines cleaning processes but also enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. Other honorees such as Spartan Chemical and GOJO echoed this theme, demonstrating how proactive engagement can result in increased market penetration and lasting frameworks of trust. The Power of Recognition Acknowledging outstanding suppliers can enhance their motivation and commitment to excellence. Awards like the Finish Strong Award given to Clorox Pro and the Innovation Award to Rubbermaid Commercial Products spotlight the exemplary service and creativity that fuel the industry, serving as inspiring benchmarks for others. This recognition also has a ripple effect; it encourages all suppliers to enhance their services, which ultimately benefits cleaning professionals striving for excellence within their organizations. These awards signify the industry's focus on uplifting partners who prioritize communication, innovation, and cooperative selling. Looking Ahead: The Future of Supplier-Cleaner Relationships As industry dynamics continue to evolve—fueled by new technologies and shifting consumer expectations—the role of suppliers will remain critical. With increasing demands for sustainability and green cleaning solutions, suppliers must innovate and adapt to support their partners effectively. The awardees demonstrated how proactive approaches can not only meet current expectations but also set future trends. This year's awards highlight that advantageous collaborations are not just about maintaining the status quo but envisioning and building a better future together within the cleaning sector. As standards for environmental safety and effectiveness rise, suppliers' contributions will be vital. Your Role in Championing Partnership Success As industry professionals, how can you further strengthen these valuable relationships? Simple actions like open communication and feedback can guide suppliers to better tailor their services to your needs. Participation in programs recognizing exemplary suppliers can also instill a culture of appreciation that benefits everyone in the ecosystem. Conclusion: Embracing Collaboration for Growth and Innovation The recognition of outstanding suppliers by Network Distribution serves as a reminder of the crucial role that strong partnerships play in the cleaning industry. By celebrating excellence and fostering collaboration, we set the stage for continued growth, innovation, and success across all tiers of the cleaning supply chain. Don't overlook the impact that acknowledging and supporting your suppliers can have—your involvement could propel your organization, and the industry as a whole, toward unprecedented heights.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*