Derrycourt Celebrates Landmark Win at the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards 2025
A Night to Remember in Edinburgh
It was a night to remember in Edinburgh. Beneath the historic ceilings of the National Museum of Scotland, leaders, innovators, and visionaries from across Europe’s cleaning and hygiene sector gathered to celebrate excellence, leadership, and progress. Among them was Derrycourt Cleaning Specialists, ready to stand alongside the very best in the industry.
“I am incredibly honoured, but more than anything, I am reminded that great teams make leaders look good. This award is a reflection of the dedication, passion, and excellence of the phenomenal team at Derrycourt Cleaning Specialists that I have the privilege to work with every day. Thank you all. This is truly our win.”
Avril Reflecting on the award
Celebrating Leadership and Excellence​
As the evening unfolded, one moment stood out. From a highly competitive field of industry professionals, Avril McCarthy, General Manager of Derrycourt, was named Leader of the Year at the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards 2025.
This prestigious award recognises exceptional leadership, integrity, and measurable impact. It also reflects the values and vision that continue to shape Derrycourt’s success story.
This achievement comes in a year when Derrycourt was shortlisted in all three categories it entered, highlighting the strength of its people and a company culture built on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Industry Recognition Across Europe
The significance of this recognition was echoed by Michelle Marshall, Editor of the European Cleaning Journal and founder of the awards:
“Each year, we are reminded just how dynamic and forward-thinking our industry has become, and 2025 has been no exception. The innovation, dedication, and commitment demonstrated in this year’s entries show that the professional cleaning and hygiene sector is not only keeping pace with change but leading it.”
Shortlist
- Excellence in Client-Contractor Partnerships: Derrycourt and the National Forensic Mental Health Service (NFMHS).
- Investment in Training
- Leader of the Year: Avril McCarthy, Derrycourt’s General ManagerÂ
Shaping the Future of the Industry
Avril’s forward-thinking leadership forms the foundation of Derrycourt’s position at the helm of the cleaning industry in Ireland and Europe. This award not only recognises her individual impact but also reflects the collective strength of the Derrycourt team.
Even Storm Amy could not dampen the celebrations, as a cancelled flight turned the journey home into a 30-hour adventure. Yet, just as the team demonstrates resilience in its work, the award made it home safely, a fitting symbol of shared success and determination.
Looking Ahead
This milestone achievement marks another important chapter in Derrycourt’s journey and reaffirms the company’s commitment to driving excellence, raising standards, and shaping the future of the cleaning and hygiene sector.
About the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards
The European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards are the only pan-European awards recognising excellence in the professional cleaning and hygiene sector. Organised by the European Cleaning Journal (ECJ), the awards highlight outstanding contributions in client relationships, sustainability, training, innovation, diversity, leadership, and more.
Click here to read about the Winners.