ACI’s Concludes First ‘Spark Summit’

The American Cleaning Institute’s (ACI) initial Spark Summit provided leaders from ACI member companies with ideas, tools and connections to help them navigate the regulatory, sustainability and consumer trends reshaping the cleaning products industry.

Held June 11-12 in Cincinnati, OH, the two-day event drew more than 60 professionals from across the industry for sessions focused on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) priorities, challenges related to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), extended producer responsibility, procurement, sustainability and shifting consumer expectations.

The program also included networking opportunities and discussions with senior industry executives on the business and policy forces influencing product development and market strategy.

Rising Sustainability Expectations

The launch of the Summit came as cleaning product manufacturers and suppliers face a more complex operating environment shaped by evolving regulation, rising sustainability expectations and the need to build the next generation of industry leadership. ACI said the summit is part of its broader effort, during its centennial year, to support talent development and strengthen the industry’s long-term readiness.

“We created this summit with intention – for professionals who are building momentum in their careers and stepping into greater influence,” said Jennifer Abril, ACI president and CEO. “As our industry addresses rapid change across regulation, sustainability and innovation, it is important to invest in leaders who will help shape what comes next.”

Sessions explored how policy and market dynamics are affecting the cleaning products value chain, including presentations on sustainability, procurement and consumer behavior. Attendees also heard directly from representatives of the US Environmental Protection Agency on key regulatory developments, including TSCA, and toured the EPA’s Andrew W. Breidenbach Environmental Research Center.