Market Analysis Of The Cleaning Sector Management Essay

Market Analysis Of The Cleaning Sector Management Essay The Cleaning Industry National Training Organisation (CINTO) has suggested that the UK cleaning industry is valued in the region of  £12bn, 2.7 million households in the UK spend as much as  £11 billion annually on domestic help, the rise in two-salary household and more disposable income but limited time for domestic chores necessitates this, the cleaning industry presently employs about 820,000 people. The industry is mainly dominated by small organisations and has 72% of all UK cleaning staff employed in firms with less than ten employees. A third of these firms are operated by sole proprietors. CINTO is of the opinion that the cleaning industry is resistant to economic recession as a result of the huge demand and inevitability of service. Competition is stiffer however in commercial cleaning sector than domestic. This can therefore affect profit margin. Regardless of the intense competition, the cleaning industry is a booming industry with an impressive growth in the contract cleaning market from  £4 billion in 1996 to  £6 billion in 2004. Below is a tabulated STEP analysis of the cleaning sector. Social Population and market consist of 61 million people with 67% in the working class, 16.2% aged and 16.4% under aged. Labour is predominantly made up of migrant workers. Industrial servicing. Subject to environmental protection agency laws Economic The sector is slightly affected by the economic downturn but not significantly as it is a service sector and inevitable to all households in the UK. Demand cuts through all class and age structure in the UKespecially the working class which accounts for 67% of the UK population. This sector is a sub sector of the service sector that accounts for a large portion of the UK GDP. Theres been a shift in demand preference to price from quality and innovation because of the economic downturn. Increased competitiveness. Technological General services of cleaning, trash pickup, floor polishing, and the specialty services of cleaning carpet and ducts and washing windows. Staff cleaning buildings and houses by hand or with the help of basic equipment like floor polishers. Operations is labour-intensive Sector is labour intensive Simple machines and technology needed. POLITICAL Government legislation and regulation with respect to waste disposal. Organised and influential association body with intense pressure on government. Low government aid policies. According to MBD (Market and Business Development) report on the sector, Contract cleaning in the UK has grown by over 12 per cent in the past five years and is expected to increase by a further 13 per cent between now and 2011. The UK Cleaning Market 2004-2012:- There were over 4,300 individual contract cleaning firms active in the UK in 2008, though the industry remains particularly consolidated in value terms, with the firms in this study contributing more than 80% of the total market revenue. It has been suggested that 30% of contract cleaning firms are considered at risk in 2009 with the growing problem of customer retention. Customer loyalty is considered less prevalent, and customers of contract cleaners are continually searching for more competitive prices. This competitive trend in the market is pushing price competition in an environment where demand is reducing as smaller firms are internalising certain cleaning duties instead of outsourcing. The downturn in capital expenditure of contract cleaning firms will undoubtedly affect cleaning equipment manufacturers and suppliers in the short term, with a reduction in demand also aggravated by increasing pricing pressure as Contract Cleaning firms attempt to achieve greater cost reduction measures. The impact for tool and equipment manufacturers are less positive with regards to supplying to this sector in the short term, the need for effective marketing strategies therefore arises to target those companies who are performing well in the market. The cleaning sector provides employment for over 450,000 people in nearly 32,000 firms. Table 2: Workplaces and Employees within the Cleaning Sector in Great Britain. Source: Annual Business Inquiry, ONS, 2005 2006 85% of all cleaning companies have 10 or less employees. 1% of companies has over 200 staff and provides jobs for approximately half of all the cleaning employees. The current uncertain world economy makes analysis of current and future economic performance very difficult. Staffing and retention remains key themes for the sector as it struggles to maintain a stable workforce. This has been made worse by the pressure on sales and the stiff competition within the environment. The effect of the global economic downturn on the sector has been viewed as been less subjective as with other sectors since cleaning is an inevitable service. As expected however, employee training suffers a decline as profit margin reduces. Profit margins remains reduced in the sector, at about 5% in 2006, having been squeezed by 28% between 2002 and 2006. Labour costs consist of about 73% of all costs, this having been increased by 13.2% over the period 2002-2006. Gross Value Added (GVA) per worker (measured as the average financial contribution to turnover each employee within a sector generates) was  £9,600 in 2006 compared to a whole economy average of  £33,300. In 2006, seven companies had 25% of the market share (as a percentage of total value), as seen below. Table 1: Market share, (as a percentage of total value) in 2006 Source: Marketing Research for Industry, Feb 2000 A major challenge of this sector is the credit crunch and the effect it has on the sectors quality service delivery given the budget. Recruitment and retention are also key issues, issues regarding labour force attraction and motivation to family friendly labour policies. Future issues to be considered include the need to improve marketing to attract new clients, management of skills gap and planning is vital. The take-up of qualifications within the industry has been low and almost half of employers dont have a Level 2 or equivalent qualification. 16% of the sector is not aware of Vocational Qualifications, though their appropriateness is called into question. A third of all firms believe they take too long in delivering and five in ten believe they are too complicated. The BICSc (British Institute of Cleaning Science) is the most common qualification held. Cleaning firms suffer from increased rate of staff turnover which has been known to be closed to 75% in some cases, with most cleaning staff staying in employment for up to 12 weeks cleaners. 6% of cleaning firms advertised skills vacancies in 2007 -according to the National Employer Skills Survey 2007, this was primarily in elementary occupations and machine operatives. 80% of elementary occupations were categorised as difficult to fill positions. Almost 800 companies advertised these positions and were located within the West Midlands, South West and South East. Reasons for these difficult to fill vacancies are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Inadequate personnel interested in engaging in this type of job (28%). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Inadequate number of applicants generally (16%). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Low number of applicants with the required attitude and motivation (13%). The implication of these vacancies is the increased workload of other staff. Cleaning firms have alleged that they have: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ increasing cost of operation; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Difficulty in matching quality standards requirements à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Delay in developing new products. As a result of the above issues, 50% of firms have increased their advertising and recruitment campaign and most of the firms are increasingly trying new ways of recruitment. Reductions in some skills area have been identified in the Cleaning Industry, these include: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Management and leadership; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Technical skills; and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Literacy, numeracy and ESOL A key driver in the sector is the changing form of procurement. The process of procurement has become increasingly formalised and has most part been subject to European Union Commission guidelines, more challenges are therefore placed on cleaning firms in this sector. A recent report implied the importance of migrant workers within the industry. Firms in the cleaning sector are faced with an ageing workforce and recruitment issues, these firms have therefore been able to tap into the large resource of migrant workers, this has culminated in 37% of Englands cleaning labour being classified as migrant labour. Firms have been able to recruit more efficiently and cost effectively as well, however the only hinderance to this is the issue of language which is being subdued by coping the strategies from employer. Regional Distribution of cleaning companies within England, 2006 There are increasing demands being placed on the industry due to increased regulation and Visibility which, in time, it is anticipated will reveal greater skill needs. There are a couple of key issues as regards the cleaning sector, they include,  · Recruitment difficulties for domestic cleaning jobs because of competition from other sectors.  · Increased day-time cleaning and expanding skill mix needed  · Employment of migrant workers without language barrier.  · Employing expertise cleaning operatives into supervisory and managerial positions with inadequate training.  · Forecasted job losses of over 90,000 between 2004 and 2014 but concerns of replacement demand still workable.  · Pressure from customers for more work per capita in order to deliver contracts with less people  · Low rate of retention.  · Lack of long term investment in staff  · Difficulties in recruiting new employees into the workforce  · Misconstrued negative image for the sector discourages prospective minds to commit to a career in the industry.  · Skills gaps in managing teams, project management, problem solving and resource allocation, customer care, and managing change for supervisors and managers  · Mixed quality of training provision with low retention rates and qualification  · Inadequate filling of management training slots in the industry  · A small size of employers in the industry had a budget for training of employees.  · Unaccredited training for staffs.  · Employers want tailor fit training that meets their immediate needs and well as their budget.  · The key issues to training to training include the margins on contracts where training is perceived as a cost, career progression is seen as a mirage, shift work and problems of release, and inflexible modes of delivery. The cleaning sector is a low tech business characterized by ease of entry and entry. Highly competitive, reduces pricing and subsequently profits. Convenience is key in the cleaning sector, location to the market and fast turnaround on clothes so also cleanliness of the item are important. Consumer care little about what euipments or technology dat has being used as long as the the cleaning service is fast, convenient and effective. A model has been designed to address a couple of the sectors issues and it is outlined

Republic Day Essay

In India, Republic Day honors the date on which the Constitution of India came into force replacing the Government of India Act 1935 as the governing document of India on 26 January 1950. The date of 26 January was chosen to honour the declaration of independence of 1930. It is one of the three national holidays in India. While the main parade takes place in the national capital, New Delhi, at the Rajpath before the President of India (currently Pranab Mukherjee), the anniversary is also celebrated with varying degrees of formality in state capitals and other centres. India achieved independence from British rule on 15 August 1947 following the Indian independence movement noted for largely peaceful nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience led by the Indian National Congress. The independence came through the Indian Independence Act 1947, an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom that partitioned British India into the two new independent Dominions of the British Commonwealth (later Commonwealth of Nations): India and Pakistan. India obtained its independence on 15 August 1947 as a constitutional monarchy with George VI as head of state and the Earl Mountbatten as governor-general. The country, though, did not yet have a permanent constitution; instead its laws were based on the modified colonial Government of India Act 1935. On 28 August 1947, the Drafting Committee was appointed to draft a permanent constitution, with Dr.B. R. Ambedkar as chairman. While India’s Independence Day celebrates its freedom from British Rule, the Republic Day celebrates the coming into force of its constitution.

How to Learn English

How to learn English effectively Do you want to know how to learn English effectively? If so, you are not alone. In fact, there are many people out there today who are working to learn English as a second language. No matter what the reason is that you are learning English, you want to make sure that you can learn it quickly and effectively as well. Whether you are learning English in a class, on your own, or with language teaching software, there are certain things that you can do to make sure that you learn the language effectively. So, here are a few tips to keep in mind that will help you on your journey towards learning the English language. Tip #1- Make Sure You WANT to Learn One of the first tips that can help you out if you want to know how to learn English effectively is to make sure that you really want to learn this language. If you really don’t want to learn, there is no book, no class, and no tips that are going to make it simpler for you. Make sure that you ask yourself whether you really want to learn English. If not, then it’s not for you. However, a real desire to learn the language can go a long way. Tip #2 – Figure Out What Motivates You If you want to learn English effectively, you need to figure out what your motivation is. Why do you want to learn English so badly? Do you want to improve your current learning, get a better job, attend university, or enjoy your life in an English speaking country? No matter the reason you are motivated to learn this language, you need to understand what motivates you so you can use it as encouragement as you learn the language. Tip #3 – Decide on Some Goals It is very important that you have goals in mind if you want to know how to learn English effectively. Setting goals will help you to know where you want to be and it will you to actually see your progress as you learn the language as well. Decide what your goals are, whether you want to improve your vocabulary, pronunciation, or even if you want to comprehend when you’re listening better. Once you know your goals, make sure that you are working to achieve them. Tip #4 –Be Sure to Practice Practicing is probably one of the most important tips if you want to know how to learn English effectively. The more you practice your English skills, the better you will become at it. You can practicing by reading English, by writing emails and letters, by listening to television or the radio in English, or even by taking time to speak to other people who speak the English language. The more you practice, the fewer mistakes you’ll end up making over time, and you’ll become more effective with your English skills. Tip #5 – Work on Vocabulary Development No matter what language you’re learning, a large vocabulary is going to be very important. This is especially important when you are learning the English language. One of the best ways to learn new vocabulary words is to start reading and you can also learn more by listening to the radio or watching television. Playing word games and doing word puzzles can also help you out when you are trying to enhance your English vocabulary. Tip #6 – Study on a Regular Basis If you plan on learning a language, you are going to have to make studying a priority. It’s not just something you do every now and then, but it should be done every single day. When you study each day it is easier to retain the new things that you learn. You’ll also find that you can review easier every day and you’ll definitely remember what you learn a lot better as well. So, if you want to know how to learn English effectively, then you need to make studying a priority. Tip #7 – Make it Enjoyable When you’re having fun, it actually makes it easier for you to remember things that you learn, so make sure that you make learning English fun. Take time to do puzzles and to play games, even if it does seem a bit childlike. They really can help you as you learn English and provide you with excellent practice. Ref : http://www. learnenglish-a-z. om/how-to-learn-english-effectively. html Rules for Writing Formal Letters in English In English there are a number of conventions that should be used when writing a formal or business letter. Furthermore, you try to write as simply and as clearly as possible, and not to make the letter longer than necessary. Remember not to use informal language like contractions. Addr esses: 1) Your Address The return address should be written in the top right-hand corner of the letter. 2) The Address of the person you are writing to The inside address should be written on the left, starting below your address. Date: Different people put the date on different sides of the page. You can write this on the right or the left on the line after the address you are writing to. Write the month as a word. Salutation or greeting: 1) Dear Sir or Madam, If you do not know the name of the person you are writing to, use this. It is always advisable to try to find out a name. 2) Dear Mr Jenkins, If you know the name, use the title (Mr, Mrs, Miss or Ms, Dr, etc. ) and the surname only. If you are writing to a woman and do not know if she uses Mrs or Miss, you can use Ms, which is for married and single women. Ending a letter: 1) Yours Faithfully If you do not know the name of the person, end the letter this way. 2) Yours Sincerely If you know the name of the person, end the letter this way. 3) Your signature Sign your name, then print it underneath the signature. If you think the person you are writing to might not know whether you are male of female, put you title in brackets after your name. Content of a Formal Letter First paragraph The first paragraph should be short and state the purpose of the letter- to make an enquiry, complain, request something, etc. The paragraph or paragraphs in the middle of the letter should contain the relevant information behind the writing of the letter. Most letters in English are not very long, so keep the information to the essentials and concentrate on organising it in a clear and logical manner rather than expanding too much. Last Paragraph The last paragraph of a formal letter should state what action you expect the recipient to take- to refund, send you information, etc. Abbreviations Used in Letter Writing The following abbreviations are widely used in letters: †¢asap = as soon as possible cc = carbon copy (when you send a copy of a letter to more than one person, you use this abbreviation to let them know) †¢enc. = enclosure (when you include other papers with your letter) †¢pp = per procurationem (A Latin phrase meaning that you are signing the letter on somebody else's behalf; if they are not there to sign it themselves, etc) †¢ps = postscript (when you want to add something after you've finished and signed it) †¢pto (informal) = please turn over (to make sure that the other person knows the letter continues on the other side of the page) †¢RSVP = please reply Outline: A Covering Letter A covering letter is the one that accompanies your CV when you are applying for a job. Here is a fairly conventional plan for the layout of the paragraphs. Opening Paragraph Briefly identify yourself and the position you are applying for. Add how you found out about the vacancy. Paragraph 2 Give the reasons why you are interested in working for the company and why you wish to be considered for that particular post. State your relevant qualifications and experience, as well as your personal qualities that make you a suitable candidate. Paragraph 3 Inform them that you have enclosed your current CV and add any further information that you think could help your case. Closing Paragraph Give your availability for interview, thank them for their consideration, restate your interest and close the letter. Outline: A Letter of Enquiry A letter of enquiry is when you are approaching a company speculatively, that is you are making an approach without their having advertised or announced a vacancy. Opening Paragraph Introduce yourself briefly and give your reason for writing. Let them know of the kind of position you are seeking, why you are interested and how you heard about them. Paragraph 2 Show why their company in particular interests you, mention your qualifications and experience along with any further details that might make them interested in seeing you. Paragraph 3 Refer to your enclosed CV and draw their attention to any particularly important points you would like them to focus on in it. Closing Paragraph Thank them, explain your availability for interview and restate your enthusiasm for their company and desire to be considered for posts that might as yet be unavailable. Ref : http://www. usingenglish. com/resources/letter-writing. html

The Political Movements Of The 1980s And The Southern Cone...

The 1980s were described as lost decade due to the economic crisis and the Southern Cone dictatorships and guerrilla warfare in Central America. The woman was marginalized as any other minority, which made them aware of their fate. They decided to accept into their ranks women from the working classes from socio-political movements. It was during this decade that was set up the Latin American and Caribbean feminist meetings. The meeting place was a place of debate, discussion but also of ideas and projects confrontation and was conducted by women who came from different backgrounds with regard to their social class, their origins, their sexual options, their age. Unfortunately, tensions were formed between different groups including†¦show more content†¦In contrast to a boy, school is not a requirement but helping their mothers is more useful and important than getting educated. In general, the female literacy rate is higher than that of men, but in countries where there are more rural areas it is the opposite as is the case of some Central American countries. Many solutions can be implemented to help these families attend schools but the government opposes. Education is directly linked to the professional career of a person. In Lating America, today, and more specifically in cities, women are studying longer and therefore have access to a better-valued profession. In 2005 women accounted for 39.3% of the workforce. However, the area where concentrated the female work force is that of domestic work. Since the 1970s, many women come from the countryside to find jobs. Uneducated or even illiterate, they have no choice but to make this work there. This activity is frowned upon and their bosses mostly exploit women. Family structure has also changed dramatically in Latin America and they are going through a full mutation. The marriage number is decreasing, couples opting for cohabitation rather, for against the divorce rate is much higher and there is a rise in single parent and blended families. Feminism has managed to change attitudes of women stating that their access to education; work could change their lives. The woman represents the f undamental