Bidvest Noonan

A leading provider of facilities services and solutions

cleaning

Four Principles That Guide Our FM Services in Healthcare

by

Clean, safe spaces are essential in any healthcare setting. For patients, they mean comfort and reassurance. For staff, they mean being able to focus on care. And for visitors, they signal that their loved ones are in a place where health really matters. At Bidvest Noonan, we understand this deeply. Every day, we help healthcare providers maintain environments where people can feel safe, supported, and respected.

We bring together skilled teams, proven processes, and the right tools to deliver reliable services across hospitals, clinics, and care settings. From cleaning and infection control to security and technical services support, our role is to make sure nothing gets in the way of care.

Susan Howard, our Director of Operations for Healthcare, shares four guiding principles that shape how we deliver on that promise:

1. We know hospitals don’t stand still, so neither can we

Healthcare environments demand constant adaptability. Every moment counts, and every relationship matters. At Bidvest Noonan, our teams work in these dynamic settings every day, supporting clinical teams and maintaining the highest standards.

I make sure our teams know they’re part of something bigger. We’re there to help create the right conditions for care to happen safely. That means being responsive, thoughtful, and prepared to adapt, whether that’s moving quickly after an incident or making sure a treatment area is turned around without delay.

We also invest in local healthcare managers who truly understand these environments. They know them inside out. They build strong relationships with clinical leads and facilities teams so that, when plans change, we’re already on the same page. That level of trust is invaluable, and we understand that taking it to the next level takes time and consistent delivery of services. It’s how we stay effective and keep standards high.

2. Clean is not enough, we focus on safe

There’s a difference between a space that looks clean and one that is clinically safe. We focus on ensuring both. Infection prevention is central to what we do. It’s a responsibility we take seriously because the risks are real.

That’s why we have a dedicated Infection Prevention and Control specialist to support our teams and our clients. This person works with our teams on the ground, advising, auditing, guiding, and responding in real time. They ensure our methods are evidence-based and match both national guidance and the needs of each hospital.

We also treat infection control as a shared effort. Our teams don’t work in isolation. They stay close to hospital IPC leads and learn from them, too. We’ve seen how much of a difference this makes, not only in maintaining safer environments, but in giving clinical staff more confidence in the spaces they use.

3. Technology should make life easier, not more complicated

I’m a big believer that technology should work for people, not the other way round. We use tools that help our teams do their jobs better and give our clients more clarity and control. But it’s got to be simple, practical, and fit for purpose.

We use digital auditing tools to check performance in real time. Our Task tracking system keeps us accountable, and dashboards help managers make smart decisions quickly. But it’s not about data for the sake of it. It’s about being able to act quickly, spot issues early, and make continuous improvements based on real insight.

For hospitals and healthcare providers, this means less chasing, more transparency, and more peace of mind. And for our teams, it means clearer expectations, better feedback, and more support. That’s what technology should do, make good work even better.

4. You get better results when people feel they belong

I believe the best service comes from people who feel valued and supported. That’s especially true in healthcare, where the work can be intense and often demanding. So we put real effort into looking after our colleagues, not just training them.

Every team member receives healthcare-specific training, but we also spend time explaining why their role matters. We want them to see how their work directly supports care, recovery, and dignity. When someone knows their job has real impact, they show up differently.

We also offer support and development that goes beyond the basics. Whether it’s refresher sessions, mentoring, or just listening to what they need to do the job well. And when someone does a great job, we recognise it. We want our teams to feel proud, because pride turns into consistency, attention to detail, and genuine care.

Passenger-centric transport solutions

by

Keith Middleton, Transport Managing Director, discusses the role Bidvest Noonan plays in providing a seamless, safe, and enjoyable experience for rail passengers.

Bidvest Noonan’s deep expertise, award-winning innovation, highly engaged teams, and commitment to sustainability are what make the company a trusted partner for thousands of customers across the UK and Ireland.

It has over 25 years’ experience in the transport sector, working with some of the largest rail and bus operators, providing security, cleaning, and support services, with its work impacting more than 14 million commuters and over 1.5 billion journeys every year.

“We help our clients to provide safe and comfortable environments for their passengers,” explained Keith Middleton, Transport MD at Bidvest Noonan. “Don’t take my word for it, come and talk to some of my customers.

“What you will get from Bidvest Noonan is the whole team dedicated to you, staying connected, staying in contact, and making sure that we are delivering what we said we would. We will bring new ideas to the table, we will bring innovations because we are doing that all of the time, and overall we will ensure great results.”

Bidvest Noonan efficiently cleans more than 10,000 vehicles across rail, light rail, and bus operations every day, never compromising on standards but ensuring the fastest turnaround times possible. When it comes to security, its employees are passionate about keeping people safe as they travel, and ensuring that goods are protected in transit.

Among its rail customers are many of the leading companies in the sector.

“It’s a family feel among the team, and we all care about doing a first-class job,” said Keith Middleton. “In this world of big businesses, none of our customers feel overlooked. At the end of the day, we are a large business in the transport sector, but every single one of my customers has a direct line to me.

“This year, our senior executives aim to meet all of our customers to hear directly from them. We have also got an excellent customer experience team who speak to customers independently to ensure we are doing a great job. These initiatives help to foster a more open-style relationship that also allows us to talk about other things and come up with other solutions.”

Innovation in transport solutions

To provide the best possible experience for customers and their passengers in the transport sector, Bidvest Noonan continuously invests in technology and systems to ensure it remains at the forefront.

A particular area of success is its efforts in keeping customers informed, investing in technology to provide real-time data and a bespoke 24/7 performance measurement solution. This allows reporting, auditing, tracking, monitoring, and risk identification to be easily managed.

“We’ve got Bidvest Noonan Task, which gives customers the data they are looking for, and enables us to capture in real-time the cleaning that is going on, or the security work we are doing,” said Keith. “For some customers, we have created a map so customers, at any time, can see the last time somewhere was visited, giving them real-time information.”

“What is pleasing though is the amount of times I go to a site and they’ve been trialling a piece of equipment or a new chemical. The team just do that naturally, and although in some cases those trials might not go anywhere, if you don’t do it, you won’t find out what is right for the market.”

One example of success has been with Go-Ahead London, in collaboration with Chela, in the development of a range of powerful plant-based cleaning agents for vehicle cleaning, depot cleaning, and facility cleaning. It was recognised in 2023 Green Apple Award, run by The Green Organisation, an international, independent environment group promoting best practice.

“We’re currently working with that supplier to build that portfolio of products out to bring to the market,” he said. “We are constantly trialling different chemicals to find the best solution for customers, while at the same time also offering them the best value.”

“There are also many other things we are working on, whether it is a new piece of equipment or a slightly different way of doing things, we always have our finger on the pulse. We recently invested in specialist vehicles that are fully equipped, ensuring our teams have everything needed to perform deep cleans. We are making significant investments into these new ways of working that ultimately enable us to work better and to do more than ever before.”

“The progress is driven by our innovation team and innovation centre, which is constantly trialling new products. For example, we recently brought in digital twin technology, with Bidvest Noonan purchasing cameras to map buses, trams, trains, or platforms and overlaying training instructions and health and safety information.”

“This is particularly useful when looking at different fleets that we are cleaning and taking new trainees through the different elements of this on a computer screen,” he said. “They still have to go and do the live environment training as well, but it is another step forward and an innovation that is going to bring to life the importance of what our teams do every day. Another thing for me is how I can use that to benefit the health and safety message in that environment. That is something I’ve really focused on in recent months, ensuring it is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.”

Operating in an ethical and socially responsible manner

Bidvest Noonan embeds sustainability into every facet of its business and is working with clients to maximise its environmental performance and protect the planet.

“We are working hard with our colleagues and supply chain partners to reduce our impact on the environment, from removing single-use plastics and minimising the waste we generate to embracing technological change,” added Keith.

Recently, the company announced the completion of its first comprehensive carbon footprint assessment, which adheres to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and the Science-Based Targets initiative standards. The process involved a detailed analysis of emissions from the supply chain, employee commuting, and operations, with the company engaging with suppliers and various departments to identify key impact areas and opportunities for emission reductions.

“Sustainability is a key factor in our decisions and something we are passionate about,” explained Keith. “We have an electric-first policy in our business, many of our team members have transitioned to electric vehicles, and we are continuing to roll them out. By empowering our people and collaborating with our supply chain, we significantly reduce our carbon footprint. The progress we are making is important to both us and our customers.”

Bidvest Noonan Becomes First FM Services Company to Introduce New Specialist Cleaning Technology

by

Bidvest Noonan is the first in its industry across the UK and Ireland to introduce a brand-new range of specialist cleaning technology for its customers. Developed for cleanroom environments, where contamination control is critical, this technology enables the high standards of cleaning required in these spaces to be achieved with greater efficiency than ever before.

The SAFE-T range was developed to meet the needs of a Bidvest Noonan customer, a globally renowned technology brand, that sought a more advanced and specialised solution for its world-class cleanrooms. To support its customer, Bidvest Noonan engaged Clenli Direct, who worked closely with i-Team Global, the manufacturers, to bring the range to market.

“Our strategic partner Bidvest Noonan introduced JLL to Clenli Direct and i-Team Global, their excellent engineers worked with our problem statement and design ideas, this collaboration of engineering and cleanroom expertise has resulted in an innovative product and relationship that we at JLL are proud to be part of.” said Spencer Price, Cleanroom Facilities Manager at JLL.

“We are proud to have played a role in the inception of this new range of technology,” said David Barker, Chief Growth Officer at Bidvest Noonan. “We have a long track record of innovating to help our customers overcome challenges, and strong partnerships have always been central to that success. We were delighted to mark the launch of the SAFE-T range alongside JLL, Clenli Direct and i-Team Global, and we look forward to bringing the benefits of this technology to our customers across the UK and Ireland.”

Officially launched in Dublin on 12 March 2025 at an event attended by industry leaders and experts, the SAFE-T line brings vast improvements to cleanroom cleaning. One of the machines in its range is the SAFE-T-IMOP, the first battery-powered scrubber dryer designed for both cleanroom and general use. It reduces cleaning time by up to 50% compared to traditional flat mopping and has been independently tested to meet ISO 14644 cleanroom standards.

Bidvest Noonan’s adoption of this technology reinforces its leadership in the FM industry, particularly in high-tech and regulated sectors such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, technology, and life sciences.

5 Key Reasons Life Sciences Organisations Partner with Bidvest Noonan

by

Walking through a life sciences facility, you quickly realise just how much attention to detail goes into everything. There’s a reason why the world’s leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies set such high standards, it’s the only way to ensure consistency, safety, and compliance.

These are the environments Bidvest Noonan teams work in every day. Whether it’s a cleanroom, laboratory, or high-risk production area, everything has to be done to exact specifications. The right equipment, the right training, the right processes, it all has to come together seamlessly.

We spoke to Brian Maguire, our Director of Operations who has years of experience in this sector, about why so many of these organisations choose to work with us. Here’s what he had to say:

  1. GMP Expertise

GMP expertise is absolutely essential in this sector. We have dedicated GMP specialists and a GMP microbiologist who work closely with our teams to ensure compliance at every level. They help develop contamination control programs, set strict cleaning protocols, and keep us aligned with the latest industry regulations. In life sciences, there is no room for error. Everything we do is designed to maintain the highest possible standards while ensuring our clients’ environments remain safe and audit-ready.

  • Experience Supporting Leading Life Sciences Companies

We work with some of the biggest brands in the life sciences sector, many of whom develop life-saving medication. That experience gives us a deep understanding of the standards and expectations in this space. Every site is different, but the fundamentals remain the same: compliance, consistency, and quality. Our teams are used to working in highly regulated environments, and we understand the critical nature of our clients’ operations.

  • Specialist Cleaning Technology

Technology is a big part of how we work. We use the latest i-mop technology that is cleanroom-approved, allowing us to do a more thorough job in the most critically important spaces. Our teams also use sector-leading UV technology to deliver essential hand hygiene training. In this sector, particularly in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) environments, maintaining the highest standards is critical to keeping our customers’ operations running smoothly.

  • Training and Compliance

Every life sciences facility is different, and that’s why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Our experts develop site-specific protocols to make sure every detail is covered. Before stepping foot on-site, our teams go through extensive training at our dedicated training and innovation hub. This prepares them for the specific compliance needs of their site, the latest cleaning techniques, and the regulatory landscape they’ll be working in. Standards in this sector are constantly evolving, and our approach to training ensures our teams are always ready.

  • Decades in the Industry

We’ve been operating in the life sciences sector for decades. Not many can say that. This experience means we’ve seen how the industry has evolved, and we know what it takes to deliver in these environments. The work we do ensures our clients can operate without disruption. Whether it’s a laboratory, cleanroom, or production area, we understand the pressures and the importance of getting things right the first time.

Introducing Dynamic Workplace

by

We are delighted to announce the launch of our Dynamic Workplace solution. This intelligence-driven solution employs cutting-edge sensor-based technology to optimise service performance, resource utilisation, and transform service management and workplace experiences.


Dynamic Workplace utilises LoRaWAN sensors, which employ long-life batteries and Wi-Fi technology, enabling flexible, easy placement throughout facilities without additional power or connectivity needs. These discreet, wireless sensors provide real-time data on various aspects such as occupancy, temperature, and lighting. By aligning service and resource allocation with actual usage patterns, Dynamic Workplace significantly reduces unnecessary consumption and costs. For example, with Dynamic Workplace, customers can identify when spaces are not in use, allowing them to save on lighting and heating while service teams can reorganise their work plans for greater productivity.


Bidvest Noonan’s Dynamic Workplace solution also enables greater space utilisation. For example, occupancy data can reveal underutilised areas, allowing for a reconfiguration of space to better meet the needs of the workforce or to identify opportunities for energy savings. The service solution is receiving strong support in the market, particularly in sectors with large facilities such as those in Higher Education. Four large universities have already embraced the company’s technology.


‘At Bidvest Noonan, we’re excited about the transformative impact of Dynamic Workplace. The initial feedback from our clients, has been overwhelmingly positive,’ says Peter Smyth, Director of Innovation and Technology. ‘We’ve seen customers harness this technology to not only streamline their operations but also to significantly enhance their sustainability efforts.’

From Cleaning Operative to GMP Expert: Alexander Escalante shares his journey at Bidvest Noonan

by

GMP Expert Alexander Escalante’s story at Bidvest Noonan is a powerful example of growth and professional development. Our marketing team met Alexander at a customer site, a leading pharmaceutical company, where they were warmly greeted by a colleague who showed the confidence of a true master in his field. They were keen to hear his story and discover what he believes are the fundamentals for high performance in GMP environments.

Dedication and Drive: The Pillars of Alexander’s Career

Alexander, or as his closest colleagues like to call him, Alex, began his professional journey in the recruitment sector, specifically staffing for cruise lines. This early role gave him a deep appreciation for the importance of every individual’s contribution to a larger operation. This experience subtly influenced his understanding of the significance of each task, no matter how minor, in achieving broader objectives. This insight would become a foundational aspect of his subsequent career in the Life Sciences sector.

Joining Bidvest Noonan in 2004, Alex brought this profound understanding, coupled with strong ambition and passion, to the role. This saw him seize the opportunities to train and develop in the business and he propelled through the ranks which saw him rise from the role of a cleaning operative to that of a GMP supervisor.

Hailing from the Philippines, Alex now has 20 years’ experience in the facilities industry. His role now extends beyond meeting the stringent standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the Life Sciences sector. He plays a vital role in supporting the safe production of life-saving medications, firmly believing that the work he and his team perform is crucial and far from just routine.

During our conversation with Alex, we asked him to identify five fundamentals he believes are key to high performance in GMP environments.

  1. Ensure Your Team Has the Right Tools

“It might seem obvious, but the foundation of an effective cleaning team lies in providing them with the right tools and resources,” says Alex. He emphasises the necessity of having the latest cleaning equipment, quality materials, and technology. This approach doesn’t just boost efficiency; it ensures the team meets the demanding standards required in pharmaceutical environments. “In this sector, running out of essential supplies can disrupt the creation of a clean and safe environment,” he adds.

  1. Invest in Comprehensive Training and Mentoring

Training is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about shaping understanding and commitment. Alex advocates for a robust training program that guides team members to understand the ‘why’ behind their tasks. “This method results in a team that’s not just technically skilled but also deeply committed to the significance of their roles,” he notes. “In environments like these, there’s no room for lapses in training, so it’s of the utmost importance.”

Bidvest Noonan has some exciting new plans for our people in the life sciences sector. These plans are set to enhance how we train our colleagues particularly in GMP environments, ensuring even higher standards and expertise.

  1. Create a High-Standards Mindset

Encourage your team to appreciate the impact of their work. Alex suggests, “Help your team understand their crucial role in the broader context of the site you work at. For instance, some of our teams at Bidvest Noonan work with customers who produce life-saving medication.” Realising this often elevates daily tasks to a mission, where there is a collective focus on its success. This creates a strong culture of excellence and meticulous attention to detail.

  1. Strict Adherence to SOPs

“Each Life Sciences site has its specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and adhering to these is paramount,” Alex points out. Following these SOPs rigorously is vital to maintain the integrity of cleaning processes and uphold the necessary standards for safe pharmaceutical production. “We want our customer to rest assured knowing that the service we deliver will never interrupt their operations, only support it”.

  1. Promote Open Communication and Safety

Creating an environment where team members can express concerns and observations freely is essential. “A culture that prioritises safety and proactive problem-solving can significantly improve performance,” Alex explains. Encouraging a setting where every issue, big or small, is addressed can lead to a reduction in lost-time accidents at customer sites.