When facility managers evaluate total cost of ownership for products and services, employees and the company win. Bobrick knows this.

by Eileen McMorrow

Returning to work in the office is both the mantra of Corporate America and the federal government. Professionals are learning new ways of working and how to be as productive as possible in the workplace. Businesses and government entities are renewing or transforming interior spaces and considering furnishings, amenities and perquisites that will make employees comfortable and productive.

Every investment and improvement that supports workers or the workplace, students on campus, or civil servants, also has to be evaluated for the bottom line. Facility managers, building owners, their interior designers and building service contractors are looking to partner with brands whose products result in lower total cost of ownership (TCO).   

Total cost of ownership (TCO) means the complete cost of owning and operating a product or service throughout its entire lifespan, including the initial purchase price, maintenance, operation, potential downtime, and disposal costs, essentially considering all direct and indirect expenses associated with it over its lifecycle. Businesses often use TCO to compare different products or services, even if one has a lower initial price, to understand which option will be more cost-effective in the long run. 

The destination we all visit . . . and notice

In all commercial workspaces or learning environments, the restroom is a destination for essential relief and sometimes a space to take a breather where users notice how well appointed and maintained it is. Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc. creates high-quality, industry-leading restroom accessories that save building owners, facility managers (FMs) and building service contractors time and money, resulting in lower total cost of ownership (TCO).

While TCO is critical to owners, it is more important if the products that deliver it are also functional and aesthetically pleasing. Bobrick meets the needs of architects and building owners by crafting restroom accessories that combine durability, style and functionality. Made with premium materials like diecast zinc and stainless steel, the products are designed to deliver exceptional durability while maintaining a sleek, elegant appearance. Created to be durable, timeless and efficient, Bobrick restroom accessories complement other traditional restroom design elements.

“Bobrick products not only enhance the look of your space but also help reduce long-term maintenance costs, offering a smart, stylish investment without compromise. With durable construction and innovative technology, our designs ensure reduced maintenance demands, giving facilities a more reliable and cost-effective solution over time,” says Nilofar Yagana, vice president of marketing for Bobrick. “What sets Bobrick apart is our focus on cost-saving. Our soap and towel dispensers are compatible with economical, widely available consumables, eliminating the need for restrictive, high-cost contracts and providing businesses with greater flexibility and budget control.”

Value on demand – a Bobrick theme

Backed by a vast and reliable distribution network — including major e-commerce platforms and trusted local suppliers — Bobrick’s products are designed to be easily accessible and readily available. This network is supported by dedicated local representatives who provide personalized service, ensuring expert guidance tailored to each project’s needs. 

“Our products combine quick lead times, durable and low-maintenance designs with easy access to products and universal refills to optimize restroom efficiency,” said Yagana. “Plus, our dedicated representatives are available every step of the way to help simplify restroom management.”

Components of TCO

TCO can consider installation costs, training costs, energy consumption, repairs, depreciation, and even potential disposal fees. 

When facility managers and purchasing agents specify Bobrick restroom accessories, such as tissue and towel dispensers, automatic soap dispensers and faucets, waste receptacles and hand dryers, TCO can apply to: 

• The initial purchase price
• User convenience
• Maintenance
• Restocking
• Lifecycle
• Potential reapplication during a renovation

TCO, or actual cost, quantifies the cost of the purchase across the product’s entire lifecycle. The concept extends beyond just the upfront cost of buying something, taking into account all ongoing expenses related to using and maintaining it.

With Bobrick, there are no proprietary contracts for the products that go in the dispensers. FMs can acquire Bobrick soap, paper, and tissue dispensers that are designed to be compatible with a wide range of consumables, eliminating the risk of supply interruptions tied to specific soap or paper brands. Unlike proprietary systems that left many facilities struggling with unusable dispensers during COVID-era shortages, Bobrick’s open, universal design ensures flexibility — allowing facilities staff to source consumables from multiple suppliers without the need to replace dispensers. Counter-mounted soap dispensers are designed for convenient top-filling with cost-effective bulk soap, reducing both labor and soap expenses. Unlike bottom-filled cartridge dispensers, which require frequent replacements and higher costs, Bobrick’s bulk-fill system streamlines maintenance and ensures long-term savings.

“Our goal is to save building owners and facility managers time and money,” said Yagana. “Our products reduce maintenance and labor costs and save thousands in soap and paper costs over their lifetime. With easy-to-access refills, facilities stay stocked and running smoothly with minimal downtime.”

With innovative features like touch-free technology, the products not only promote better hygiene by minimizing contact but also elevate the overall restroom experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for all users. Whether in high-traffic commercial spaces or smaller facilities, Bobrick solutions are designed to meet the demands of modern restrooms with style and reliability.

Bobrick’s well-designed, performance-engineered and efficient restroom products are found in countless institutions, offices, stadiums, airports and restaurants in hundreds of countries globally. During NeoCon, June 9–11, visit Bobrick in space 7-5034.