Commercial Cleaning Services Done Differently: Inside Sparkles Cleaning Service’s People-First Approach

office cleaning business resident

At The Business Centre, we love seeing passionate, people-focused businesses thrive, especially ones that sparkle in more ways than one. One of those shining examples? Sparkles Cleaning Services, a Welsh-born company redefining what it means to run commercial cleaning services in Wales. 

Led by Managing Director Ceri Jennings, Sparkles Cleaning Services has grown from a small domestic service into a specialist commercial cleaning provider trusted by major clients — all while placing people, purpose, and sustainable work practices at the centre of everything they do.

commercial cleaning services

Back in 2003, Ceri launched Sparkles Cleaning Services after some gentle encouragement from her mum and sister: “They kept asking me to do their cleaning for them,” she laughs.

What started as a domestic cleaning business quickly evolved. “Now we’re a commercial, office and welfare cabin cleaning company,” says Ceri. “Running a commercial cleaning services business is like being on a rollercoaster, but our cleaners are the heart of it all.”

Over the past 22 years, Sparkles has gone from strength to strength. The team now serves a wide range of commercial customers, including building sites where welfare cabin cleaning and strict health and safety standards are essential.

Real Living wage sparkles cleaning services

For Ceri, the most rewarding part of running Sparkles Cleaning Services is the people.

“We pay our cleaners the Real Living Wage and offer profit shares, which is rare for businesses these days. But it’s important to treat people right and give back when you can.”

As a Living Wage Foundation accredited employer and multiple award-winner, Sparkles has earned industry recognition, not just for their commercial cleaning services, but for their commitment to equality, access, and employee wellbeing.

In fact, one of the team’s proudest moments was receiving the The Champions Award from the Living Wage Foundation, after being nominated by Sparkles’ own staff.

“It’s always amazing that as a small company we’re able to win an award, let alone multiple,” Ceri shares.

Sparkles Cleaning Services has picked up several meaningful accolades, including:

  • CIPD Award for Best Diversity and Inclusion Initiative (2021)
  • Business Growth Award for People Development (2021)
  • Living Wage Foundation Employee Choice Award (2022)
  • Vale Employer of the Year Award (2023)
  • Business Growth Award (2023)

For Ceri, the awards reflect the heart of the company, a commitment to being an employer of choice in the commercial and office cleaning industry.

A survivor of cancer and someone who has overcome challenges with dyslexia, Ceri brings a deep sense of empathy to her leadership.

Sparkles Cleaning Services is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, a Work Trial Employer, and a proactive partner in the Cardiff Commitment Drive, helping people into meaningful work across South Wales.

“We’ve taken away the old-fashioned interview process and replaced it with informal chats and work trials. It works for our business and helps remove barriers.”

This incredible commercial cleaning services company also works closely with Maximus Employment and Elite Supported Employment, offering real opportunities to jobseekers who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional hiring practices.

ceri owner of Sparkles cleaning services

Sparkles Cleaning Services doesn’t just care about people, they care about the planet too.

As an eco friendly cleaning company, Sparkles uses environmentally friendly cleaning products and procedures as part of their long-term commitment to sustainable work practices.

“We’ve chosen products with less packaging and encourage our team to use public transport where possible to reduce the environmental impact of commuting,” says Ceri.

From waste disposal to responsible supply choices, Sparkles ensures their cleaning and maintenance services protect both people and the planet.

From onsite training in equipment handling and cleaning procedures to NVQ Level 2 qualifications, Sparkles Cleaning Services invests heavily in their team. Training also covers customer care and how to deliver a high standard of office cleaning in line with specific client needs.

“We want to build long-term employment, not just short-term solutions,” Ceri explains.

flexible serviced offices and coworking spaces at the business centre barry

What brought Sparkles Cleaning Services to The Business Centre?

“I’d visited from time to time as our lovely accountant is based in the building, and I was always so impressed by the reception area and how professional and welcoming the staff were.

“So when a serviced office space became available, we jumped at the chance! The in-house café, 24/7 gym, the on-site parking — all bonuses. It just felt right, and I think we’ll be here for a long time to come.”

Among their many contracts, one recent standout has been working on the Transport for Wales metro link, as the preferred supplier to Amey Infrastructure with both office cleaning and welfare cabin cleaning.

“We’ve had great feedback. Being part of this transformation, from the Valleys to Cardiff, has been a proud moment for us.”

Amey praised Sparkles Cleaning Services for their proactive attitude and continued support, especially during their major office move to the Depot and the uncertainty of the covid-19 pandemic. They also highlighted Sparkles’ commitment to hiring local people, a value Amey proudly shares and encourages.

Looking ahead, Ceri’s goals are clear:

“To keep on growing and employing people into long-lasting employment,” she says.

With a strong track record, team of 30, and commitment to commercial cleaning excellence, Sparkles Cleaning Services is ready for whatever the next chapter brings.

If you’re searching for commercial cleaning near me, a trusted cleaning company commercial clients can rely on, or a specialist in commercial and office cleaning, Sparkles Cleaning Services offers more than just sparkle. With eco-conscious values, community roots, and award-winning service, this proudly Welsh commercial cleaning company is one to watch.

And here at The Business Centre, we’re proud to be part of their journey.

Follow Sparkles Cleaning Services and Ceri on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/sparkleswalesandwestltd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceri-jennings-7360a3139/

Want to grow your business in a supportive, flexible office space like Sparkles? Whether you need serviced offices, a co-working space, or a virtual office, The Business Centre in Barry is just 10 minutes from the west of Cardiff — and ready to welcome you.