The BCC held its spring meeting at The Courtauld Institute of Art, in London, in what was a well attended and lively meeting.

Andreas Lill, Director General of the European Federation of Cleaning Industries, gave a presentation about the benefits of joining EFCI. He spoke about the new realities in the market such as globalisation, and the integration of services, and how the BCC could help to develop and influence policy in Europe if they were members.

After debating the issue, members decided unanimously to join the EFCI as the exclusive UK representative.

The Council also discussed the recent Cleaning Show at London’s Excel. All those present thought the show went well, and that the move to the Excel was well vindicated. Members also expressed thanks to the BCC for sharing its stand, which brought significant cost savings. A new video of the BCC at the show was shown and approved by members.

The Council also discussed and accepted the F&P recommendation that Simon Hollingbery be appointed Chairman at the AGM in July, with the position of Vice Chair still to be resolved.

Members were informed that the BCC has been awarded the Living Wage Accreditation, and can now display the logo on publicity materials.

Also in attendance was Stephen Munton and Tracy May from the Domestic Cleaning Alliance, who gave a presentation in application to join the BCC. Members were impressed with the enthusiasm shown, but felt the DCA wasn’t quite ready for full membership. However, the DCA was given a 12 month associate membership of the BCC to help and encourage it to reach the required standard.

After an unusually long meeting, there was a light lunch and the Chairman and BCC members who attended would like to thank Anthony Tyrell, Chairman of BACHE for hosting the event.