*Originally published in L.A. Business First on March 17, 2025
Commercial real estate leadership is reshaping the future of in-office work, transforming spaces into thriving hubs of collaboration and innovation. Facility services providers aren’t just support in these environments — they’re partners in the mission to ensure that every detail reflects care and purpose. Together, the two industries are redefining what it means to create workspaces that inspire employees and drive business success.
The pandemic redefined how we work, leaving lasting impressions on city centers, businesses, and employees alike. Remote work reshaped the corporate landscape, shrinking office footprints and quieting once-vibrant urban hubs. According to a study by Moody’s CRE in the beginning of 2024, office vacancy rates in the U.S. hit 19.6%, the highest peak since the 1990s.
Now, with industry giants like Amazon and JP Morgan announcing full-time office returns, the stage is set for a bold new chapter in CRE. This isn’t just a recovery, it’s a golden opportunity for CRE leaders to rewrite the narrative, embrace innovation, and redefine what it means to work in a modern office.
For employers, the return-to-office (RTO) movement marks a chance to revive collaboration and reignite workplace culture. For CRE leaders, it’s a call to action to reimagine physical spaces as more than places to work. It’s about crafting environments that inspire creativity, foster connection, and prioritize well-being. The workplace is no longer just desks and conference rooms; it’s a community hub where businesses thrive and employees feel empowered to return.
“This reinvention extends beyond the office walls — it’s a catalyst to breathe life back into local economies, sparking growth and revitalization,” said Cameron Hall, CCS Facility Services regional vice president, West Coast region. “As employees return, the challenge for CRE leaders isn’t just to adapt but to shape the future of work itself.”
A critical yet often overlooked driver of workplace satisfaction is the overall facility environment. As employees navigate new child care routines and longer commutes, the spaces they return to must reflect care, respect, and attention to detail. Clean, welcoming, and well-maintained offices aren’t just amenities, they’re essentials. This means investing in janitorial services that go beyond surface cleaning: spotless bathrooms, prompt trash removal, and day porters who address real-time issues with precision. A well-cared-for office is more than a functional space — it’s a tangible sign of respect for employees’ time and well-being, creating an environment they’re proud to return to.
“The return-to-office movement has amplified the demand for customized workplaces, transforming the relationship between CRE firms and their service providers into true strategic partnerships,” said Tony Ramirez, general manager of the Los Angeles branch at CCS Facility Services.
Tailored solutions, like rapid-response cleaning teams and executive-level amenities, are more critical than ever, highlighting the importance of our client-centered approach. Hall has seen this firsthand: “It’s no longer just about delivering a service; it’s about supervisors and teams collaborating to elevate quality, satisfaction, and readiness for employees’ return. These partnerships empower CRE leaders to create spaces that align seamlessly with business goals and employee well-being.”
For janitorial partners, thriving in today’s industry requires more than exceptional execution — it demands outstanding customer service and a demonstrated ability to enhance workplace value. Superior service isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a differentiator that drives tenant satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term partnerships. CRE leaders who prioritize these partnerships will create workspaces that transcend functionality, delivering experiences that inspire.
As offices regain their energy in 2025, CRE leaders must embrace a new mindset. Instead of focusing solely on occupancy rates and profitability, they must view their work as an opportunity to make a societal impact and deliver long-term value. By prioritizing health, innovation, and sustainability, the CRE industry can redefine the workplace as a cornerstone of employee well-being and business success. The RTO movement isn’t merely a logistical hurdle, it’s a chance to reimagine what the workplace can be and the role it plays in our lives. This is a genuine chance to revitalize the commercial real estate industry by leveraging thought leaders to reintroduce white glove service in the tenant experience.
Looking for a reliable janitorial partner that wows you through great communication, consistent staffing, and incredible quality? Reach out to CCS Facility Services to create a tailored solution that delivers a clean environment and great impression for your business.
