At Advance Champion, we’ve never really thought of ourselves as a “supplier.”
We’re part of how facilities run.

That goes back a long way, before Kevin and I were running the day-to-day, before most of our current customers were even in their buildings. Our family has been in this business for decades, and a lot of what we believe came from Frank.

Frank didn’t talk much about “strategy” or “positioning.”
He focused on doing right by people.

Answer the phone.
Show up when you say you will.
Fix the problem, even if it wasn’t technically your fault.

Simple stuff. But it’s not as common as it should be.

What We Learned Early
Growing up around the business, we saw what really matters to the people we work with.

Most of them aren’t looking for the cheapest product.
They’re trying to keep a facility running.
Keep employees safe.
Make sure customers walk into a place that feels clean and professional.

And a lot of times, they’re doing it with limited time and a lot of responsibility.

When something goes wrong, late deliveries, wrong products, no call back, it creates real problems for them.
That’s where we’ve always tried to be different.

Carrying the Standard Forward
Kevin and I didn’t come in looking to change everything.
We came in knowing what already worked.

Take care of people.
Be easy to do business with.
Know what you’re talking about.
Don’t oversell.

That last one matters more than people think.

A lot of facilities don’t need more products.
They need the right products, and someone who can explain why.

Sometimes that means telling someone, “You don’t need that.”
And we’re fine with that.

Because the goal isn’t the order.
It’s the relationship.

What Commitment Looks Like Today
For us, commitment isn’t a slogan. It shows up in small, everyday ways.

Returning calls quickly.
Helping fix ordering mistakes.
Letting customers return things if it didn’t work out.
Talking through problems instead of just shipping boxes.

A lot of our customers have been with us for years.
Not because we’re perfect.
But because they know we’ll take care of it when something isn’t.

Why It Still Matters
A clean facility does more than people give it credit for.

It affects how employees feel coming into work.
It affects how customers see your business.
It plays a role in safety and health.

We’ve seen it firsthand across all kinds of facilities.
And when it’s done right, everything runs a little smoother.

That’s the part we care about.

If There’s a Fit
Not every business is a fit for us.

But if you’re running a facility, handling cleaning in-house, and just want things to work the way they should, we’re always open to a conversation.

No pressure.
We’ll just talk it through and see if it makes sense.

The post The Work Behind a Cleaner Facility appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

To reduce those risks, applying ergonomic principles, that is, designing tasks and tools to fit the worker, makes work safer and more sustainable. For cleaning teams, this can include using lightweight, adjustable tools such as telescoping poles and microfiber mops that help keep workers upright and limit strain. Equipment that reaches into tight spaces or requires less force to operate can lessen stress on shoulders, wrists, and knees.

Emerging technologies also play a role. Automation and autonomous cleaning equipment can take over physically demanding or repetitive tasks, giving workers a chance to focus on higher-value cleaning needs while lowering injury risk.

Finally, training is essential. Teaching proper techniques and safe system use helps employees understand how to protect themselves and use ergonomic tools effectively, making injury prevention a proactive part of daily work.

The professionals at Advance Champion Supply can show you a variety of options, including cleaning equipment and tools to make the job easier. Some include robotic (autonomous) cleaning machines, backpack vacuum cleaners, cordless cleaning equipment and much more.

Contact Advance Champion because a cleaner facility isn’t an expense, it’s an advantage!

The post Good Ergonomics Help Prevent Workplace Injuries in Cleaning Teams appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Why Cold and Flu Season Matters for Business

The economic impact of cold and flu season on businesses is substantial. The average employee with the flu misses three to four days of work, and even those who come to work while sick experience reduced productivity. Beyond the immediate costs of absenteeism, workplace illness can create a ripple effect that affects team morale, customer service, and project timelines.

Taking preventive action isn’t just good for employee wellbeing—it’s a smart business decision that protects your bottom line.

Creating a Healthy Workplace Environment

Enhance Cleaning Protocols

During cold and flu season, standard cleaning procedures may not be sufficient. Consider increasing the frequency of cleaning high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, shared equipment, and kitchen areas. Provide cleaning supplies at workstations so employees can wipe down their own keyboards, phones, and desks throughout the day.

Improve Air Quality and Ventilation

Proper ventilation plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of airborne illnesses. Ensure your HVAC system is well-maintained and filters are changed regularly. If possible, increase fresh air circulation and consider using air purifiers in shared spaces. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels between 40-60% can also help reduce virus transmission.

Provide Hygiene Stations

Make it easy for employees to practice good hygiene by placing hand sanitizer stations in strategic locations throughout your workplace—near entrances, in conference rooms, break rooms, and common areas. Ensure restrooms are always stocked with soap and paper towels.

Encouraging Preventive Health Measures

Promote Vaccination

One of the most effective ways to reduce flu cases in your workplace is to encourage vaccination. Consider hosting an on-site flu shot clinic, partnering with a local pharmacy or healthcare provider to bring vaccinations directly to your employees. If that’s not feasible, provide paid time off for employees to get vaccinated and communicate information about where vaccines are available.

Educate Your Team

Knowledge is power when it comes to preventing illness. Share information about proper handwashing techniques, respiratory etiquette (covering coughs and sneezes), and the importance of not touching one’s face. Regular reminders through email, posters, or team meetings can reinforce these healthy habits.

Implementing Supportive Sick Leave Policies

Review Your Sick Leave Policy

Ensure your sick leave policy is clear, generous, and easy to use. Employees should never feel pressured to come to work when they’re ill. If your current policy is restrictive, consider whether temporary adjustments during peak flu season might be appropriate.

Discourage Presenteeism

Create a culture where staying home when sick is not only accepted but encouraged. Leadership should set the example by staying home when they’re unwell. Make it clear that coming to work sick puts others at risk and can actually prolong recovery time.

Enable Remote Work

For employees whose jobs allow it, offering the option to work from home when they’re mildly ill can help them rest while staying productive and preventing the spread of illness to coworkers.

Supporting Employee Health and Immunity

Encourage Healthy Habits

Promote wellness initiatives that support immune health. This might include sharing information about nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and regular exercise. Consider offering healthy snacks in the office or organizing wellness challenges.

Provide Flexibility

Stress and exhaustion can weaken immune systems. During cold and flu season, consider whether you can offer additional flexibility with schedules to help employees maintain work-life balance and get adequate rest.

Ensure Access to Healthcare

Make sure employees understand their health benefits and know how to access care when needed. Provide information about telehealth options, urgent care facilities, and what to do if they develop symptoms.

Communicating Your Plan

Be Proactive and Transparent

Don’t wait until illness strikes. Communicate your cold and flu season preparedness plan to all employees before the season begins. Let them know what steps the company is taking and what you expect from them.

Regular Updates

During peak illness times, provide regular updates about any cases in the workplace (without violating privacy), remind employees about preventive measures, and reinforce your sick leave policy.

Create Easy Reference Materials

Develop simple, accessible resources such as a one-page guide on symptoms that should keep someone home, proper hygiene practices, and who to contact if they’re ill.

Preparing for Business Continuity

Cross-Train Employees

Ensure that critical functions aren’t dependent on a single person. Cross-training team members means your business can continue operating smoothly even when key employees are out sick.

Have a Contingency Plan

Identify which functions are essential and develop backup plans for maintaining them during periods of high absenteeism. This might include temporary reassignment of duties or bringing in temporary help.

Review Your Technology

Ensure your remote work technology is functioning properly and that employees know how to use it. Test video conferencing systems, VPN access, and collaboration tools before they’re urgently needed.

Conclusion

Preparing your business for cold and flu season doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By combining preventive measures, supportive policies, clear communication, and contingency planning, you can create a workplace that stays healthier and more productive throughout the season.

The key is to start early, be proactive rather than reactive, and create a culture where employee health is valued and protected. When your team knows you’re invested in their wellbeing, they’re more likely to take the necessary precautions to stay healthy—benefiting everyone in the organization.

Remember, every business is different. Assess your specific workplace needs, involve employees in the planning process, and be willing to adjust your approach based on what works best for your team. With thoughtful preparation, you can minimize the impact of cold and flu season and maintain a thriving workplace all year long.

Contact the professionals at Advance Champion Supply to help create a safety plan designed for your business that includes the proper products and procedures to protect your staff and your business.

The post Preparing Your Business for Cold and Flu Season: A Guide to Keeping Your Workforce Healthy appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

As summer approaches in Arizona, we prepare not only for the soaring temperatures but also for the seasonal opportunities that come with it. While staying hydrated and avoiding excessive sun exposure are critical for personal health, summer also brings a prime window for facility upkeep and deep cleaning projects.

At Advance Champion Supply, we know that this season is a go-to time for businesses to roll up their sleeves and restore their environments, especially after the departure of winter guests. From professional cleaning contractors to in-house maintenance teams, summer is when the real work begins: stripping and refinishing floors, deep cleaning carpets, sanitizing restrooms, and tackling overall facility maintenance.

Summer Cleaning Season: Challenges and Solutions

With these summer projects come important questions:

• Do you have the right team in place to complete the job?
• Is your staff trained in the proper techniques and product usage?
• Are you using the best tools and solutions to ensure long-lasting results?

At Advance Champion Supply, we help you say “yes” to all of the above.

Whether you’re managing a large commercial facility, a retail space, or a hospitality environment, we offer premium-grade supplies, industrial-strength equipment, and most importantly, industry-backed guidance to ensure you get the job done right.

Unmatched Experience. Unbeatable Support.

With decades of experience serving Arizona’s commercial cleaning professionals, our expertise goes far beyond product selection. Our team provides consultation, product training, and custom solutions tailored to your specific facility and goals. We’ll show you how to strip floors efficiently without damaging surfaces, how to extend the life of your carpet cleanings, and how to select the right disinfectants and tools for each area of your building.

We stock and support the best brands in the business, from floor machines and autoscrubbers to eco-friendly chemical solutions, microfiber systems, and spot extractors, everything you need to get through summer cleaning season with results that last.

Get Started with Confidence

If you’re unsure where to begin or how to tackle a large-scale cleaning or maintenance project, you don’t have to figure it out alone. With Advance Champion Supply, you gain a partner who’s been helping Arizona businesses for decades. As the old saying goes, “We will make you shine.”

Call us today, stop by our showroom, or schedule a consultation. Let us equip you with the right tools, products, and knowledge to make this summer your cleanest one yet.

The post Shining Through Summer: Get Your Facility Back in Shape with Expert Supplies and Support appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

When deciding between renting or purchasing floor mats for high-traffic buildings, it’s essential to weigh the costs, maintenance, and quality considerations.

Cost Analysis:

• Renting: Typically involves a weekly fee per mat. For example, renting a single 3′ x 5′ mat might cost around $5 per week, totaling $260 annually. If a facility uses five such mats, the yearly expense would be approximately $1,300. Over a three-year period, this amounts to $3,900.

• Purchasing: Buying a high-quality mat, such as a 3′ x 5′ entrance mat from Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply, costs about $154.35. Outfitting the same facility with five mats would result in a one-time expense of $771.75 With proper maintenance, these mats can last at least three years, leading to significant savings compared to renting.

Maintenance Considerations:

• Renting: Rental services replace mats regularly, often weekly. However, the replacement mats may vary in quality and prior usage, potentially affecting the facility’s appearance.

• Purchasing: Owned mats require regular maintenance, such as vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning. While this adds to the maintenance routine, it ensures consistent quality and appearance.

Quality and Performance:

• Renting: Rental mats are generally lightweight and may not offer the durability or aesthetic appeal of higher-quality purchased mats.

• Purchasing: Investing in quality mats allows for better customization in terms of size, material, and design, ensuring they meet the specific needs of the facility and enhance its overall appearance.

In summary, while renting mats offers convenience, purchasing high-quality mats can lead to substantial cost savings, better performance, and improved aesthetics for high-traffic buildings.

Contact us for pricing on mats/matting for your specific application.

The post More About Mats – Rent or Buy? appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

At Advance, we believe that industrial cleaning solutions should be safer for people, smarter in design, and more effective in performance. Our commitment to this mission has driven us to combine cutting-edge science and advanced technology with generations of industry expertise, ensuring that our clients receive the very best solutions available.

Safer Solutions for a Healthier Workplace

Clean doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals and unnecessary risks. We engineer our cleaning products and systems with safety in mind, reducing exposure to harmful substances while maintaining powerful cleaning performance. By using eco-friendly formulations, non-toxic solutions, and advanced delivery systems, we help businesses create healthier environments for employees, customers, and communities.

Smarter Cleaning Through Technology

The cleaning industry is evolving, and so are we. With over 150 years of combined experience in the janitorial and sanitation (jan/san) industries, the Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply team brings deep knowledge and innovative thinking to every solution we provide. Our products and systems incorporate automation, data-driven efficiency, and sustainability practices, ensuring that our clients can clean faster, smarter, and with greater cost-effectiveness.

More Effective Performance You Can Trust

We don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” cleaning solutions. Different industries require customized approaches, and our team works closely with clients to develop cleaning strategies tailored to their specific needs. Whether it’s industrial facilities, healthcare settings, food service operations, or commercial spaces, Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply delivers powerful, science-backed solutions that go beyond surface cleaning to ensure deep sanitation and long-lasting results.

Family-Owned, Customer-Focused

As a third-generation, family-owned business, we take pride in the relationships we build. Our clients aren’t just customers—they’re part of our extended family. We provide not only high-performance cleaning solutions but also education, training, and expert guidance to help businesses optimize their cleaning operations.

At Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply, we set the standard for innovation, safety, and effectiveness in industrial cleaning. Our team is ready to help you achieve a cleaner, healthier, and more efficient workspace.

Let’s talk about your cleaning needs! Contact us today to learn how Advance can help you create a safer, smarter, and more effective cleaning program.

The post Advance: A Family Legacy in Smarter, Safer, and More Effective Industrial Cleaning Solutions appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Preventing Slips and Falls

Slips and falls are among the leading causes of lost productivity and preventable injuries in the workplace. Strategically placed mats and matting can significantly reduce these risks, creating safer environments for employees and customers alike.

Key areas where mats are essential include:

• Entryways: Stop dirt, moisture, and debris at the door.
• Workstations: Provide a stable, anti-fatigue surface for workers.
• Doorways: Transition points from warehouses or manufacturing areas to offices.
• Shower Areas: Prevent slippery surfaces.
• Water Coolers and Fountains: Address spills and reduce hazards.

Benefits Beyond Safety

In addition to reducing slips and falls, mats can save businesses money by minimizing downtime, insurance claims, and workers’ compensation cases. Investing in high-quality mats is a proactive step toward creating a safer and more efficient workplace.

How Advance Champion Supply Can Help

Every business has areas vulnerable to slips and falls. At Advance Champion Supply, we specialize in helping businesses identify high-risk zones and select the right mats and matting solutions to meet their needs. Let us assist you in preventing injuries and promoting safety.

Contact us today to learn more about our mats and matting solutions!

The post The Importance of Mats and Matting in Arizona appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Restrooms: A Hygiene Priority

The cleanliness of restrooms is a critical aspect of maintaining a healthy workplace. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Clean, Disinfect, and Sanitize:
  Begin by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces, including mirrors and bright metals. Use appropriate cleaning agents to ensure a sanitary environment.
• Mop Floors with Disinfectant:
  When mopping restroom floors, always use a disinfectant. Importantly, avoid using the same water or mop for other areas to prevent cross-contamination.
• Focus on Toilets and Urinals:
  Disinfect and sanitize all toilets, urinals, and areas with frequent human contact. This step is crucial for preventing the spread of germs.
• Proper Waste Disposal:
  Dispose of all cleaning materials in a hazardous waste container. This ensures the safe and responsible handling of potentially harmful substances.
• Guest Consideration:
  Remember that restrooms are not only for employees but also for guests. Cleaning them meticulously reflects your commitment to the health and well-being of everyone associated with your business.

Entry Ways: A Reflection of Your Business

The entryway sets the tone for the entire business, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Follow these tips to maintain a clean and inviting reception or entry area:

• Clean Windows:
  Clear, streak-free windows enhance the overall appearance of your entryway. Regularly clean windows to ensure a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
• Floor Maintenance:
  Vacuum all carpets to remove dirt and debris, providing a clean and professional look. Regular carpet maintenance contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
• Mat Care:
  Keep entrance mats clean and well-maintained. These mats are crucial in trapping dirt and preventing it from spreading throughout the premises.
• Clutter-Free Zone:
  A clutter-free entryway creates a sense of organization and professionalism. Regularly remove any unnecessary items or clutter from the reception area.

Maintaining a clean and hygienic workplace is not only a reflection of your business’s professionalism but also a key factor in promoting the health and well-being of everyone in the vicinity. By following these daily cleaning tips, businesses can create a positive and inviting environment for employees and guests alike.

The post Maintaining a Hygienic Workplace: Daily Cleaning Tips for Businesses appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Have you ever wondered why were inclined to live in clean and organized spaces? Is it a genetic predisposition to avoid illnesses, or is there another reason?

While the exact motivation for maintaining cleanliness remains uncertain, numerous scientific studies suggest that clean and organized environments have significant positive effects on our health and well-being.

Psychologists assert a clear link between cleanliness and mental ease, influencing our mood and ethical behavior.

Research indicates that tidy surroundings induce a sense of order, making us more inclined to be honest and ethical. Conversely, neglectful environments may foster frustration, leading to dishonesty and deceit.

Tidiness goes beyond aesthetics; it deeply impacts our emotions and can influence our decision-making processes. The emotional impact is so profound that it can sway our attitudes toward right and wrong.

The Essential Benefits of a Clean Environment

Cleaning as a Stress Reliever

Studies reveal that cluttered spaces can impede concentration and hamper information processing in the brain. Conversely, an organized environment enhances information processing, leading to increased productivity and reduced mental fatigue. During times of stress, the urge to clean and declutter emerges as a manifestation of the human desire for control over living spaces. [Source: Psycom – https://www.psycom.net/anxiety/mental-health-benefits-cleaning]

The Workplace Connection

Clean, tidy, and organized workplaces aren’t just visually appealing; they also enhance employees concentration and boost productivity. Whether in offices or schools, periodic tidying not only reduces time spent searching for documents but also improves morale. [Source: Small Business UK – https://smallbusiness.co.uk/does-a-clean-office-improve-productivity-2505666/]

Efficiency and Health Benefits

Consistent cleaning activities contribute to limiting the spread of germs and bacteria, reducing the likelihood of employees falling ill at work. Clean offices not only enhance professional appearances for clients but also instill pride in employees for their workplace.

The Power of Perception

Cleanliness isn’t merely a reflection of professionalism; it affects how others perceive us. Clients visiting a clean and organized office are more likely to trust the competence of the service provider. Similarly, employees are more likely to take pride in their work and workplace.

Balancing Act

Maintaining cleanliness and order is crucial for both health and productivity in various settings, from homes to offices. However, it can be time-consuming, especially for tasks like cleaning windows and floors.

IPC offers a range of cleaning solutions for both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing efficient machines and manual equipment for various cleaning needs.

Your local IPC Worldwide dealer is Advance Champion Supply located in Gilbert Arizona. For more information and how we can help you create a cleaning process to benefit your business please call Kevin De Rosa at 480-302-5945 or visit www.advancechampionsupply.com.

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