Executive Summary
OCS partnered with the NEC Birmingham to deliver a large-scale venue cleaning and waste management operation for the annual Spring Fair, a major five-day wholesale trade event welcoming 58,000 visitors and 2,500 exhibitors across 145,000 square meters. A detailed plan was developed to cover key services including waste removal, gangway clearance, and cleaning of exhibition halls, stands, offices, catering areas, restaurants, and restrooms. The operation began with a two-day pre-show clean and continued with 24-hour support throughout the event.
A team of 140 trained operatives and team leaders provided high-quality service across the venue, with training focused on safe equipment use, washroom management, and mini tractor operation. Their round-the-clock effort ensured a clean, safe, and welcoming environment, enabling the event to open on time and run smoothly. OCS played a vital role in supporting the NEC’s commitment to service excellence and delivering a positive experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.
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300Tonnes
Waste accumulated
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75.7%
Tonnes of waste successfully recycled
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24hour
Cleaning service provided
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140
Operatives and team leaders trained and deployed.
The Brief
The NEC required:
The Outcome
During the setup period, our team consistently removed waste from gangways, exhibition halls, and stands. This ensured a pleasant, clean, and safe environment for exhibitors.
Essential waste management and cleaning services allowed the show to open on time, in line with the service level agreement. Cleaning and waste removal continued throughout the five show days, with roles split between day and night workers, providing a 24-hour service involving 52 cleaners overseen by 12 team leaders.
BEST Outcomes
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Our team’s hard work allowed visitors to enjoy the show in a tidy, secure, and hygienic environment. They thrived under pressure, delivering superior services within a tight turnaround, contributing to the Spring Fair’s success.
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The waste operation involved 3 full-time operatives, 2 part-time operatives, and 5 HGV drivers who worked tirelessly to remove waste from the site.
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Working in close collaboration with the NEC, we implemented a meticulously planned cleaning and waste management strategy, supported by comprehensive staff training to ensure consistent, high-quality service across a complex, large-scale venue.
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Our team thrived under pressure, delivering 24-hour support and maintaining exceptional service standards throughout the five-day event, despite the demanding scale and tight turnaround times.
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Over 300 tonnes of waste accumulated at the NEC, with 75.7% successfully recycled.
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0%
Of 300 tonnes of waste successfully recycled
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140 operatives and team leaders trained and deployed.
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24-hour cleaning service across 5 show days, involving 52 cleaners and 12 team leaders.
