Cleaning Robots Solving Labor Shortages | Buying Local S3E55

In this crossover episode of the Buying Local podcast—also shared on Blue Collar StartUp—host Mike Nelson welcomes guest Derek Foster of Daigle Cleaning Systems to discuss how robotics and automation are transforming trade businesses. They dive into real-world applications in commercial cleaning, solving labor shortages, boosting efficiency, and enhancing results in places like healthcare facilities and office buildings. Robots aren’t replacing workers—they’re tools that free up humans for higher-value tasks.To learn more about Derek Foster and Daigle Cleaning Systems, visit their website at daigleclean.com or find them on social media. Check out the Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content from the crossover!https://www.patreon.com/posts/how-robots-help-14601109900:00 Intro and welcome to Buying Local (crossover with Blue Collar StartUp)00:30 Snowstorms, winter work, and life in the trades03:00 The real cost of vacations for business owners04:20 Setting up the episode: robotics in the trades05:00 Derek Foster’s background and growth of Daigle Cleaning Systems06:30 Introducing robotics and automation in cleaning08:20 Business acquisition and scaling during COVID13:40 How cleaning robots actually work (mapping & programming)18:40 What robots can and cannot replace21:50 Safety, sensors, and robots working around people21:20 Productivity gains and reallocating human labor24:00 Using robotics to open doors with new clients25:10 ROI, cost savings, and efficiency benefits29:00 Where robotics works best: healthcare, offices, schools31:10 Residential vs. commercial cleaning differences34:10 Franchising, systems, and avoiding costly mistakes36:50 Labor shortages and the future of automation38:20 Industry standards, certifications, and audits46:20 Advice for business owners considering robotics47:30 Episode wrap-up, crossover notes, and Patreon invitation48:58 Closing and sponsor acknowledgments