We’re delighted to announce the successful mobilisation of a major new cleaning contract in the rail sector. Following a competitive tender process, Churchill was selected as the single supplier for five key train maintenance and stabling depots.
This three-year partnership will see us deliver high-quality cleaning and presentation services at sites including London, Doncaster, and Edinburgh, working across a modern fleet of high-speed trains.
A comprehensive, data-led cleaning solution
The contract covers a full scope of train cleaning and presentation services, including:
- Daily cleaning – interior and exterior of all fleet units
- Turnaround and interim cleans – supporting fast-paced operational needs
- Toilet servicing and consumables – ensuring hygiene and passenger comfort
- Waste and recycling management – aligned with sustainability goals
- Cab and kitchen cleans – supporting clean, safe staff environments
- Manual exterior detailing – including nose cone cleaning
- Periodic Heavy Cleaning (PHC) – on a 30-day cycle: deep cleaning of carpets and seats, high-level dusting, detailed toilet and cab cleans, condition reporting, and consumables restock
These services are underpinned by our digital operations platform. It offers real-time task tracking and scheduling, compliance auditing, live customer dashboards and automated alerts, proof of presence and smart cleaning integration, and feedback capture tools for passenger and staff insights.
Why we were chosen
Our selection was rooted in a combination of sector expertise, innovation, and cultural fit. Our proven track record in the rail industry and strong national presence provided a solid foundation, while our ability to deliver transformation through technology, particularly our transparent, data-led performance reporting, stood out as a clear differentiator.
The client also valued our robust and well-structured mobilisation plan, including a smooth and supportive TUPE process. Just as importantly, our approach aligned closely with their core values of safety, harmony, and innovation, and our commitment to open, accountable communication helped to establish the foundations of a strong, collaborative partnership from day one.
A smooth and people-focused mobilisation
Mobilising a contract of this scale and complexity is no easy task. The first phase was mobilised in just four weeks, involving around 80 TUPE-transferred employees. Approximately 70% of those staff had never experienced a TUPE process before, and some expressed concern and confusion. To address this, our team carried out multiple site visits, including night shifts, to introduce ourselves, explain the process, and answer questions.
Our people-first approach meant that only two staff members left during the transition – both of whom returned within a week. As one employee shared, they’d “seen more of Churchill’s team before the contract began than they had of their former managers.”
In preparation for launch, we completed all QHSE site surveys and risk assessments to ensure a safe and compliant working environment from day one. Comprehensive health and safety training was delivered to all staff, led by our dedicated business partner to embed best practice from the outset.
To strengthen on-the-ground support, we appointed an operations manager based near the largest site, improving day-to-day visibility. A site-specific digital auditing tool was deployed immediately, enabling real-time performance tracking. Throughout mobilisation, we also conducted “Promises Made” reviews to demonstrate accountability and ensure we delivered against every commitment made to the client and our teams.
This groundwork has laid a solid foundation for a high-performing, future-ready cleaning service that supports both operational excellence and an enhanced passenger experience.
To put the scale of the operation into perspective, a single 9-car train is approximately 240 metres long and covers more than 600 square metres – the equivalent of two Olympic-size swimming pools or an Airbus A380. Keeping this environment spotless, safe and welcoming is no small feat!
We’re incredibly proud of the 120-strong team now delivering across the five sites and thank them for their professionalism, dedication, and teamwork. You keep things moving – and spotless.
If you’d like to discuss how Churchill can support your cleaning operations, fill out an enquiry form and one of our team will get back to you.