The Loo of the Year Awards have been joined by Carl Smith, an industry leader in the world of ‘washrooms’, with a track record of improving accessible toilet provision across England.
Carl, who recently headed up the Government’s £35m-funded Changing Places Toilet installation programme with Muscular Dystrophy UK, will work alongside Loo of the Year Managing Directors, Becky and Charles Wall, to drive participation in the awards and promote the importance of well-maintained, inclusive washroom facilities.
Over the past few years, Carl, has been instrumental in delivering hundreds of life-changing Changing Places Toilet installations, including England’s motorway and rail transport networks. His experience spans retail, charity, hospitality, healthcare, visitor attractions and facilities management sectors, where he’s consistently championed high standards in away-from-home toilets.
Carl said: “Toilets reflect your business. If no one cares about the state of your washrooms, do they really care about the rest of your operation? Through my work with Changing Places and now Loo of the Year, I want to showcase those raising the bar and offer practical routes for others to do the same.
“Loo of the Year’s independent grading and assessments are not just nice-to-haves – they’re as essential as food hygiene ratings and can have a serious impact on customer confidence and experience. It’s a cost-effective, powerful tool to help organisations take their facilities from average to outstanding.”
Carl’s role with Loo of the Year will focus on encouraging greater participation in the annual grading scheme and awards event, helping businesses understand the value of professional, safe and accessible washrooms.
Becky Wall BEM, of Loo of the Year Awards, added: “Carl’s passion and credibility in this sector is evident. His ability to engage local authorities, businesses and key stakeholders will be a real asset in helping us expand our reach and impact across the UK and Ireland.”
In 2024, over 1,500 venues entered the Loo of the Year Awards scheme and were independently graded on the standard of their toilets. The awards shine a spotlight on the best facilities in the country – from pubs and garden centres to motorway service stations and hospitals.
Carl’s appointment comes at a pivotal time, as the Loo of the Year Awards continues its mission to improve national standards in washroom provision – offering organisations a structured, independent route to elevate their facilities and celebrate excellence. For more information and to enter the 2025 scheme, visit the website below.
