Returning to work in the office is both the mantra of Corporate America and the federal government. Professionals are learning new ways of working and how to be as productive as possible in the workplace. Businesses and government entities are renewing or transforming interior spaces and considering furnishings, amenities and perquisites that will make employees comfortable and productive.

Every investment and improvement that supports workers or the workplace, students on campus, or civil servants, also has to be evaluated for the bottom line. Facility managers, building owners, their interior designers and building service contractors are looking to partner with brands whose products result in lower total cost of ownership (TCO).   

Total cost of ownership (TCO) means the complete cost of owning and operating a product or service throughout its entire lifespan, including the initial purchase price, maintenance, operation, potential downtime, and disposal costs, essentially considering all direct and indirect expenses associated with it over its lifecycle. Businesses often use TCO to compare different products or services, even if one has a lower initial price, to understand which option will be more cost-effective in the long run. 

The destination we all visit . . . and notice

In all commercial workspaces or learning environments, the restroom is a destination for essential relief and sometimes a space to take a breather where users notice how well appointed and maintained it is. Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc. creates high-quality, industry-leading restroom accessories that save building owners, facility managers (FMs) and building service contractors time and money, resulting in lower total cost of ownership (TCO).

While TCO is critical to owners, it is more important if the products that deliver it are also functional and aesthetically pleasing. Bobrick meets the needs of architects and building owners by crafting restroom accessories that combine durability, style and functionality. Made with premium materials like diecast zinc and stainless steel, the products are designed to deliver exceptional durability while maintaining a sleek, elegant appearance. Created to be durable, timeless and efficient, Bobrick restroom accessories complement other traditional restroom design elements.

“Bobrick products not only enhance the look of your space but also help reduce long-term maintenance costs, offering a smart, stylish investment without compromise. With durable construction and innovative technology, our designs ensure reduced maintenance demands, giving facilities a more reliable and cost-effective solution over time,” says Nilofar Yagana, vice president of marketing for Bobrick. “What sets Bobrick apart is our focus on cost-saving. Our soap and towel dispensers are compatible with economical, widely available consumables, eliminating the need for restrictive, high-cost contracts and providing businesses with greater flexibility and budget control.”

Value on demand – a Bobrick theme

Backed by a vast and reliable distribution network — including major e-commerce platforms and trusted local suppliers — Bobrick’s products are designed to be easily accessible and readily available. This network is supported by dedicated local representatives who provide personalized service, ensuring expert guidance tailored to each project’s needs. 

“Our products combine quick lead times, durable and low-maintenance designs with easy access to products and universal refills to optimize restroom efficiency,” said Yagana. “Plus, our dedicated representatives are available every step of the way to help simplify restroom management.”

Components of TCO

TCO can consider installation costs, training costs, energy consumption, repairs, depreciation, and even potential disposal fees. 

When facility managers and purchasing agents specify Bobrick restroom accessories, such as tissue and towel dispensers, automatic soap dispensers and faucets, waste receptacles and hand dryers, TCO can apply to: 

• The initial purchase price
• User convenience
• Maintenance
• Restocking
• Lifecycle
• Potential reapplication during a renovation

TCO, or actual cost, quantifies the cost of the purchase across the product’s entire lifecycle. The concept extends beyond just the upfront cost of buying something, taking into account all ongoing expenses related to using and maintaining it.

With Bobrick, there are no proprietary contracts for the products that go in the dispensers. FMs can acquire Bobrick soap, paper, and tissue dispensers that are designed to be compatible with a wide range of consumables, eliminating the risk of supply interruptions tied to specific soap or paper brands. Unlike proprietary systems that left many facilities struggling with unusable dispensers during COVID-era shortages, Bobrick’s open, universal design ensures flexibility — allowing facilities staff to source consumables from multiple suppliers without the need to replace dispensers. Counter-mounted soap dispensers are designed for convenient top-filling with cost-effective bulk soap, reducing both labor and soap expenses. Unlike bottom-filled cartridge dispensers, which require frequent replacements and higher costs, Bobrick’s bulk-fill system streamlines maintenance and ensures long-term savings.

“Our goal is to save building owners and facility managers time and money,” said Yagana. “Our products reduce maintenance and labor costs and save thousands in soap and paper costs over their lifetime. With easy-to-access refills, facilities stay stocked and running smoothly with minimal downtime.”

With innovative features like touch-free technology, the products not only promote better hygiene by minimizing contact but also elevate the overall restroom experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for all users. Whether in high-traffic commercial spaces or smaller facilities, Bobrick solutions are designed to meet the demands of modern restrooms with style and reliability.

Bobrick’s well-designed, performance-engineered and efficient restroom products are found in countless institutions, offices, stadiums, airports and restaurants in hundreds of countries globally. During NeoCon, June 9–11, visit Bobrick in space 7-5034.

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Proactive, outcome-driven facility management

ABM Performance Solutions provides a unified, cohesive team that puts outcomes first. This results in enhanced efficiency across all aspects of your facility. Whether it’s engineering, HVAC, power management, cleaning, landscaping, parking management, or building technology, ABM Performance Solutions integrates these services seamlessly, allowing businesses to reduce costs while improving productivity and sustainability.

ABM is more than a provider — we’re a strategic facility partner. With a wide array of offerings, ABM Performance Solutions ensures that your buildings operate smoothly, efficiently, and sustainably. Additionally, ABM focuses on occupant support, providing services that enhance employee and occupant satisfaction, health, and safety.

Customizable solutions for your facility

ABM Performance Solutions stands out by offering solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Understanding the unique risk profile and long-term goals of a facility allows ABM to create customized services that align with business priorities. By taking a consultative approach, ABM ensures that the solutions are relevant, efficient, and effective in achieving your goals.

Every facility is different, and ABM recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t effective. Whether managing capital expenditures or optimizing energy systems, ABM integrates technical expertise and service flexibility to deliver the best outcomes. From microgrid infrastructure to vertical transportation systems, ABM Performance Solutions addresses every aspect of your building’s lifecycle.

The importance of data and technology in facility optimization

Technology is at the heart of ABM Performance Solutions. ABM utilizes predictive analytics, smart building capabilities, and IoT sensors to monitor and optimize facility systems in real time.

ABM Connect is the end-to-end platform that unites all of this. Data from the team member application flows directly into your client platform, allowing you transparency and connectivity into services from ABM. The information gives the operational leaders at ABM the power of data-driven decision making to ensure you benefit from continuous improvement.

This data-driven approach allows ABM to manage assets proactively, minimizing downtime and maximizing performance. Data transparency is key, and ABM provides actionable insights that help businesses track the performance of their facilities over time.

ABM Connect also includes visual dashboards that offer real-time data on everything from energy usage to occupant experience, enabling clients to optimize operations and meet sustainability targets. The integration of data helps organizations stay ahead of challenges, whether it’s energy conservation, carbon footprint reduction, or improving the facility’s environment.

Achieving sustainability goals

ABM Performance Solutions integrates sustainability into every aspect of facility management. To go beyond short-term fixes, ABM focuses on energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact over the long term — making your facility more sustainable.

ABM has already demonstrated success in sustainability initiatives, such as the installation of over 26,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and saving energy every step of the way. Sustainability programs from ABM also help clients meet their sustainability targets while improving indoor air quality for staff and occupants. This commitment to sustainability ensures that facilities not only perform well, but do so in an environmentally responsible way.

Measurable outcomes and cost savings

ABM Performance Solutions ensures that every service has a direct impact on the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of your building. This results in a positive financial impact, with businesses experiencing significant cost savings, reduced operational expenses, and improved ROI. With a single provider managing all services, ABM helps reduce the number of subcontractors and middleman fees, further driving down costs.

In addition to financial savings, ABM Performance Solutions helps businesses extend the life of their buildings and equipment by improving asset management and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. The proactive approach ensures that businesses can rely on their facilities without disruption, optimizing operations for greater productivity, profitability, and occupant well-being.

Simplified facility management

Managing a facility can be a complex and time-consuming task, especially when multiple subcontractors are involved. ABM Performance Solutions simplifies this by offering a single point of contact for all facility services. In fact, ABM will have an experienced team member on site — this streamlines communication, reduces administrative burdens, and enhances accountability. With one unified team overseeing all aspects of facility management, businesses can focus on their core operations while leaving facility optimization to the experts.

Future-proofing your facility

The ability to future-proof a facility is crucial as organizations navigate changing market conditions, shifting expectations, and evolving technology. ABM Performance Solutions supports businesses in adapting to these changes by providing forward-thinking solutions that anticipate future needs. Whether it’s upgrading HVAC systems for energy efficiency or preparing for increased occupant expectations, ABM helps you stay ahead of the curve.

Why ABM Performance Solutions?

ABM Performance Solutions offers a comprehensive, outcomes-driven approach to facility management. Whether you’re looking to reduce operational costs, meet sustainability goals, or enhance the workplace experience, ABM Performance Solutions provides the tools and expertise needed to achieve all these objectives—and more. With a customized, data-driven approach, ABM ensures that your facility performs at its best, now and in the future.

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Our comprehensive services go beyond basic upkeep, ensuring your environment is consistently clean, safe and efficient. From routine maintenance to handling complex issues, we work closely with you to understand the unique needs of your facility, delivering tailored solutions that improve productivity and tenant satisfaction.

With our expertise, you can also tap into innovative technologies that are designed to reimagine the way your facility is managed. When striving for sustainability goals, our best practices will help reduce energy costs and enhance the longevity of your assets — just another step in future-proofing your facility. Our team’s proactive approach prevents problems before they arise, ensuring smooth operations and minimal disruptions. 

Trust ABM to manage every facet of your facility, giving you peace of mind and the freedom to drive your business forward with confidence.

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The award highlights professionals who exemplify the following core qualities:

• Passion for Protecting Drinking Water – Demonstrates unwavering dedication to preventing backflow and keeping drinking water safe
• Innovative and Creative Thinking – Brings fresh ideas and inventive solutions to the field of backflow prevention
• Commitment to Education – Actively engages in educating others about the importance and methods of backflow prevention
• Enforcement of Best Practices – Promotes and upholds the highest standards and best practices within the industry

Watts invites nominations from those who work closely with backflow professionals. Nominations are encouraged for individuals directly involved in the industry, including, but not limited to backflow installers and testers, municipal backflow program administrators, code enforcers and trainers, backflow and parts distributors, and sales professionals.

A panel of Watts backflow experts will review the nominations and select the 2025 Backflow Hero. The winner will be announced on National Backflow Prevention Day, August 16, and will receive formal recognition through Watts’ website, social media platforms, and coverage in trade media.

This award is part of Watts’ broader initiative to celebrate the critical work being done in backflow prevention and to support professionals who protect water systems across the country.

Nominations must be submitted by Friday, June 20, via the nomination form found at the Watts Backflow Hero Award site.

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A global leader in high-quality bath and kitchen products, LIXIL has unveiled its dynamic New York showroom, dubbed the LIXIL Water Experience Center. The two-floor, roughly 10,000-square-foot space — designed by LIXIL’s global design team in collaboration with Paris-based interior design firm Malherbe — houses LIXIL brands including American Standard, Grohe, DXV, and INAX. Modular vignettes showcasing product can be reconfigured as needed, and oversize screen displays change out to support water-delivery features.  

Clad in a noteworthy reflective architectural surface called Ripple by Breda Architectural Metals, the grand, 18-foot ceiling creates a vast, open space on the street-level ground floor of this landmark building, where the brands can host events, presentations, and training sessions in addition to highlighting product. The level above the showroom supports offices and a studio for architects and designers.

Jean-Jacques L’Hénaff, leader, LIXIL Global Design, Americas, says the concept behind the Water Experience Center began by considering how they could elevate this showroom experience from others. “We took a very different approach,” he says. “We thought that it would be interesting to do a space that could serve the community — somewhere we can invite architects and designers to exchange ideas, communicate, and work together. So that’s the reason for the big open space.”

“This is not a static showroom; this is something that will be renewed on a regular basis,” he adds, noting that thanks to the modularity of the vignettes, it will be easy to change out displays regularly to suit screenings, panel discussions, and more. And next year, when LIXIL introduces its new brand Grohe Spa to the American market, the space will be reconfigured and devoted entirely to Grohe Spa. 

The forthcoming Grohe Spa is a higher-end, ultra-luxury brand that’s all about the senses with stunning finishes and materials “you’re not going to find elsewhere,”  L’Hénaff notes. And this grand space in the Water Experience Center will present the ideal spot to showcase this upscale collection that’s perfectly suited for luxury hospitality settings.

While the upper level is largely a gathering space, the ground level is a functional and interactive showroom, displaying all LIXIL brands. Perhaps the pièce de résistance of the whole showroom is the dramatic live shower display (above, left) that highlights a full range of bath faucets and shower heads by American Standard, Grohe, and DXV. Opposite the shower fixtures is a wall marked “magnetic bath hardware” that allows people to move around the fittings to experience how they look and work at different heights on the wall. The ground level also has a demo kitchen area with operational faucets for hands-on product experiences. 

Since it’s a landmark building, it was a challenge to respect the facility and keep some of the architectural details, while at the same time bringing it up to code to have all these water experiences. The team has done a fantastic job. I’m very proud of it.

Jean-Jacques L’Hénaff

What’s lovely about this Water Experience Center is the open, airy feel that allows visitors the freedom to casually browse products. If a customer visits with their interior designer, they have the liberty to explore offerings and discuss their findings. Customers off the street looking to make purchases will be directed to appropriate sales partners for help.  

The LIXIL lines also include professional and commercial behind-the-wall systems, fixtures and fittings. The company says commercial architects, designers and their clients are also welcome to gather ideas in the New York showroom.

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The survey, conducted in January 2025, shows that public concern regarding contracting the flu has gradually increased since 2016. Currently, 65% are very or somewhat concerned about the flu compared to only 53% nine years ago. To fend off the flu virus, 79% are washing their hands more frequently or thoroughly, reflecting an increase from 74% last year.

Further, 93% believe handwashing is important for their health, so they wash their hands, on average, 7.5 times per day. Americans tend to be more diligent about washing their hands when out in public (37%) than when at home (20%), although most (43%) say they are equally diligent no matter the location.

Medical microbiologist Michael P. McCann, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Saint Joseph’s University:

Handwashing, using soap and warm water, is an easy and effective way to reduce the spread of disease-causing organisms that cause sickness, like the flu and norovirus. Given the ease with which some of these organisms can be spread on solid surfaces, in food, and by other means, handwashing is something that everyone should do after activities like using the restroom.

The survey found that coughing or sneezing or being with somebody who is sick are the actions most likely to lead to handwashing. When sick, Americans are most likely to drink more fluids (89%) and wash their hands more frequently (87%).

Handwashing missteps

While flu concerns and handwashing practices are elevated, reports of improper handwashing practices are also rising. An increasing number of Americans say they frequently see others leave public restrooms without washing their hands. Three-fourths (77%) now make this observation at least occasionally, compared with 68% last year.

Still, 81% of Americans say they always wash their hands after using a public restroom, and another 11% say they usually do. As we age, we become more likely to wash our hands after using a public restroom — only 70% of 18-24-year-olds say they always do so, compared to 92% of those aged 55 or more. Men are somewhat more likely to skip washing their hands than women.

While lathering up with soap and water is the best way to wash hands, 45% of Americans admit to just rinsing their hands with water. More men bypass the bubbles compared with women (53% vs. 38%).

When it comes to children, many parents believe their kids are taking handwashing shortcuts. 38% do not think their children wash their hands enough, and only one-in-four parents believe their children always wash their hands when they tell them to do so.

Public restroom woes

Jon Dommisse, vice president of business development and strategy for Bradley Company, remarked:

For those who skip handwashing in a public restroom, the most common reasons are a lack of soap or paper towels, sinks that are dirty or out of service, overcrowding, and bad smells. It’s no wonder that the most desired improvement in public bathrooms is keeping them more consistently clean and stocked with supplies.

For facilities, a poorly maintained restroom not only interferes with handwashing follow through, it can also create negative perceptions. 84% of the population say that an unclean or unpleasant restroom at a business or other establishment has a negative impact on their overall impression of that business or establishment.

The annual Healthy Handwashing Survey from Bradley queried 1,032 American adults Jan. 3-14, 2025, about their handwashing habits, concerns about seasonal viruses and their use of public restrooms. Participants were from around the country and were fairly evenly split between women (54%) and men (45%). 1% of survey respondents selected Other.

For more information about this year’s Healthy Handwashing Survey, visit Bradley Company. Bradley Company is a Watts Brand.

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Judged by a panel of industry leaders, including representatives from key councils, committees, and organizations across the sector, as well as an industry editor and a buying group representative, the group selects one winner in each category and two honorees. The winners of this year’s awards are on display in the Innovation Showcase and Theatre on the expo floor.

ISSA Show 2024 Innovation Awards

Automation and Equipment Innovation of the Year: Nilfisk’s SC25 Autonomous Scrubber took the top honor. Additional honorees include Robovox Distributions GmbH for its ZACO X1000 Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Sparkoz Technology Corp. for its TN10 Cleaning Systems.

Business Technology and Digital Services of the Year: Otuvy Inc. received the award for its Otuvy operational software. Honorees in this category include CleanSmart Academy’s Animated Training Kit and Janitorial Manager’s Cleaning Management System.

Facility Solution Care Products Innovation of the Year: Airbotx was awarded for its Airbotx 390X Air Cleaner. Honorees include Diamabrush’s Cylindrical Polishing Tools and CLR PRO MAX for its Industrial Descaler.

Hygiene Solution Innovation of the Year: OPHARDT Hygiene earned the award for its PRAESIDIO® hand sanitizer dispenser. Honorees include GP PRO enMotion® Paper Towel Dispensers with ECON Mode and Remco, Vikan Co.’s HyGo Mobile Cleaning Station.

Environmental and Sustainability Innovation: CloroxPro’s EcoClean Disinfecting Wipes took the award, with honorees including ABCO Products Inc. for its DSOLV dissolvable non-plastic bags and ONYX Solutions for the SXi Lithium-Ion Battery Floor Machine.

Participating exhibitors showcase products and technologies that have made an impact in the commercial, institution, and residential cleaning community by addressing key challenges that industry professionals aim to solve in daily operations while protecting and prioritizing the health of occupants.

Ed Nichols, ISSA Show North America show director, stated:

The Innovation Showcase exemplifies the ingenuity and passion that defines the industry. Each new idea is crafted to drive business growth as well as to deliver solutions that positively impact billions of lives around the world. The commitment to safety, sustainability, and precision is evident in every product showcased.

For more information on the Innovative Leaders Awards and to view the full list of participants, visit the ISSA Show 2024.

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With ECON Mode, after a set period of inactivity, the enMotion dispenser automatically goes into a sleep state — this is called hang mode, because a paper towel is visibly hanging from the dispenser. While in hang mode, battery use is paused until the dispenser is re-activated by a user removing that hanging towel. By pausing battery use, often for hours at a time, ECON Mode extends battery life from four years to more than five years, which enables a throughput of more than 110 towel rolls.

ECON Mode is the default setting on all new enMotion dispensers that helps improve operational efficiency by decreasing the frequency with which maintainers must replace batteries. It also helps lower operating costs by reducing the number of replacement batteries that must be purchased. Further, it helps drive sustainable outcomes by reducing dispenser power consumption and battery waste. 

These benefits are all in addition to the many advantages enMotion dispensers already provide, like improved hygiene with automatic touchless dispensing; less maintenance with reliable, jam-free dispensing; and less paper waste with customizable dispensing settings. enMotion dispensers deliver even greater sustainability gains when used with enMotion Recycled Paper Towels, which meet Green Seal Standard GS-1 based on chlorine-free processing, energy and water efficiency, and content of 100% recovered material with at least 50% post-consumer fiber.

Ronnie Phillips, Ph.D., senior director of Washroom Innovation at GP PRO, remarked:

It’s such an honor for GP PRO to be recognized by the cleaning industry for our innovation. I’m proud of our product engineers and design team for not only understanding what our customers want and need but for so effectively making it a reality. ECON Mode isn’t just a dispenser setting. It’s functionality that helps improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and drive sustainable outcomes.

The ISSA Innovation Leaders Award is voted on by a panel of independent judges chosen by ISSA and is presented to the cleaning industry products and solutions that the panel believes best meet the current needs of the industry in select categories, including Automation & Equipment, Business Technology & Digital Services, Environmental & Sustainability, Facility Solution Care, and Hygiene Solutions. ISSA Show attendees select the overall Innovation of the Year from among all Innovation Award entrants. GP PRO’s Compact Quad Plus Toilet Paper Dispenser was named Innovation of the Year at ISSA Show North America 2023.

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Maverik’s restrooms deserve recognition for their commitment to cleanliness and comfort, with sparkling fixtures, spacious stalls and fresh amenities that make each pit stop along your adventure a pleasant experience. Maverik’s restrooms go the extra mile with touches like adventurous décor and even family-friendly features in over 500 stores across 13 western states. In fact, USA Today named Maverik as the place with the cleanest gas station restrooms in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and Utah.

Maverik’s Chief Retail Officer Ryan Boothe commented:

It truly is an honor to be recognized by Cintas and our customers for creating restrooms with a hygienic and comforting atmosphere. In addition to freshly prepared food, extensive beverage options and great fuel discounts, clean, quality restrooms continue to be a concern for motorists, which is why we take pride in providing a consistently clean stop across our more than 500 locations and expanding. We’re grateful to our dedicated team members who recognize the role clean restrooms play in our customers’ experience as they head out on their adventures and for their hard work to maintain a superior level of cleanliness.

The 23rd annual contest celebrates businesses that develop and maintain innovative restroom facilities. Maverik – Adventure’s First Stop was among ten finalists based on cleanliness, visual appeal, innovation, functionality and unique design elements. The public had the opportunity to vote for the following ten finalists (listed in alphabetical order) between July 15 and August 16 at Best Restroom:

• Hop Shops (Florence, KY)
• Indiana Caverns (Corydon, IN)
• Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium (Kansas City, MO)
• Lambeau Field (Green Bay, WI)
• MAD (Houston, TX)
• Maximilian Motorsports (Chehalis, WA)
• Morning Glory (San Diego, CA)
• Natchez Trace State Park Visitor Center (Wildersville, TN)
• Throne Restrooms (Brentwood, MD)

John Rudy, senior director of Marketing at Cintas, said:

We’re thrilled to crown Maverik – Adventure’s First Stop as America’s Best Restroom. They have set a high standard of cleanliness in their stores and restrooms, enhancing the overall customer experience. With touchless fixtures, spacious stalls and family-friendly features, Maverik goes the extra mile, turning every pit stop into a pleasant adventure.

Last year, the Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport took home the top prize for its state-of-the-art smart restroom system, which integrates color-changing, LED stall occupancy lights and more to improve the overall passenger experience.

You can nominate a restroom for the 2025 America’s Best Restroom contest at Cintas.

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