Providing site-specific training, security improvements and enhanced cleanliness for SBS Bank

Reliable daily cleaning to maintain professional office and banking spaces
Specialist services, including annual carpet cleaning and window washing
Initial deep cleaning to restore tiles and high-traffic areas to near-new condition
Trialling environmentally sustainable waste management via the RecycleKiwi programme
Comprehensive security training and Ministry of Justice vetting for personnel
Standardised cleaning processes and communication systems across multiple sites

Our customer

SBS Bank (Southland Building Society) is a mutual bank owned by its customers, who have been operating for over 150 years. With headquarters in Invercargill, SBS Bank has 15 branches throughout the country, including 5 in Southland.

The challenge

Before partnering with CrestClean, SBS Bank faced challenges with inconsistent cleaning standards, unreliable providers, and multiple contact points. Security lapses, including unapproved cleaners on-site, unlocked windows, and unset alarms, also raised safety concerns.

When SBS Bank put their cleaning contract out to tender in 2024, CrestClean was selected despite being the highest-priced bidder. This decision reflected SBS Bank’s recognition of CrestClean’s value-added services and commitment to transparency. It also highlighted our dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility, including the welfare of vulnerable workers. CrestClean’s policy of no subcontracting and focus on consistent service delivery further reinforced their decision.

“We brought on CrestClean in April 2024 and have noticed a marked improvement in the standard and consistency of cleaning across our nationwide property portfolio. The team are friendly and courteous and are always responsive to our needs.”
Helen Harris
Procurement Manager, SBS Bank

Services and solutions provided

Reliable daily cleaning and the professional maintenance of office and banking spaces
One point of contact with Regional Managers to ensure excellent customer relationships.
Specialist services including annual carpet cleaning, and window washing.
Building washes on some sites with Health & Safety measures and traffic management in place as required.
Implementing a trial of the RecycleKiwi waste management and recycling programme at SBS Bank’s headquarters.
Efficient management and supply of consumable essentials, including paper towels, toilet paper, and hygiene products.
Thorough vetting of all personnel by the Ministry of Justice to maintain
security standards.
Implementing site-specific security training and measures, including working in pairs for safety.
The use of site-specific communication books for clear communication and fast same-day resolution of any issues.
Implementing backup systems with four-team coverage at SBS Bank’s headquarters ensures continuity in case of illness.

“We have clear processes in place for communicating to the cleaning teams and CrestClean have assisted us to standardise our hygiene/linen services and consumables across the network.”
Helen Harris
Procurement Manager, SBS Bank

The outcomes for SBS Bank

Enhanced cleanliness and reliable service
CrestClean has significantly enhanced SBS Bank’s cleanliness. An initial intensive cleaning process uncovered white tiles under years of accumulated grime, giving their headquarters a fresh new look. Our reliable service, including specialist tasks like carpet cleaning and window washing, maintains a high standard of cleanliness and professionalism for both staff and customers.

Site-specific training and security improvements
The implementation of robust site-specific security training and measures, including the presence of franchisees on-site for all cleaning shifts, has ensured safety. This proactive approach has eliminated security concerns, with the only alarm incident occurring being due to a faulty alarm.

Environmental responsibility
An initial trial of CrestClean’s RecycleKiwi programme, aiming for a nationwide rollout alongside our Toitū Enviromark Diamond certification, aligns perfectly with SBS Bank’s focus on sustainability.

“CrestClean is proactive in providing us with innovative ideas around our rubbish and recycling and we have seen a significant improvement in our security processes, which is critical in an industry such as ours. Overall, we are very satisfied with the service levels provided by the CrestClean team.”
Helen Harris
Procurement Manager, SBS Bank