In 1999 Anglia Polytechnic University, Chelmsford, placed their cleaning contract with Ocean. This was done through their Facilities Management Team, Aqumen.

Aqumen were looking for a company that was proficient at University Cleaning and could quickly resolve the staffing problem, which was having a severe affect on standards.

It was agreed with Aqumen that a series of Deep Cleans were needed to ensure that the University went into the New Year on the right foot. To achieve a fast turnaround, Weekend and Night Cleaning Teams were tasked to complete a strict programme of works. The teams worked hard and were well supervised producing the desired results:- a clean building.

Ocean had to ensure that the high standards achieved during the deep cleans were maintained throughout the year.

John Bullivant, Operations Director said, “With the previous contractor the new staff would arrive and because of the staff shortage be expected to clean two or more sections in their shift. The new member would leave, one less to pick from a depleting labour pool.”

Ocean only allowed new recruits to work their section. This created a sense of ownership amongst the staff that not only improved staff retention but also ensured that standards were maintained. Trained relief staff were transported in from outside Chelmsford whilst local labour were recruited and trained.

In 2002 Ocean were awarded the contract to clean Anglia Polytechnic University’s Campus in Cambridge.