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CN_EN_Space to Thrive | ISS Celebrates its 20th Anniversary in the Chinese Market

Written by ISS China | May 2, 2026 8:15:03 AM

In 2025, ISS reached its 20th important milestone of development in the Chinese market. From setting sail in 2005 to flourishing with deep roots and leafy branches in 2025, we look back with gratitude and pride on the brilliant journey of twenty years of forging ahead.

I. A Long-standing History: The Global Facility Services Leader from Denmark

The story of ISS began in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1901. Facing the security challenges in Europe at that time, a group of "night watchmen" lit lanterns symbolizing safety and protection—this beam of light not only illuminated the streets of that era but also deeply planted the "security" DNA into the veins of ISS.

In 1934, we gained insight into client needs and identified the opportunity for support services between the end of the night watch at 4:00 AM and the start of the client employees' shift at 8:00 AM; therefore, we established a cleaning company, pioneering "Integrated Facility Services (IFS)," and have been moving forward steadfastly ever since.

Spanning over a century of trials and tribulations, ISS has grown into a true global giant. From the end of the 20th century to the beginning of the 21st century, through strategic expansion and integration, ISS acquired over 600 companies within just 8 years, expanding its professional integrated facility management services to more than 50 countries and regions worldwide.

Today, ISS is an undisputed expert in the global facility services sector, with 40,000+ clients trusting our professionalism. Globally, we manage an integrated facility services area exceeding 100 million square meters. 320,000 employees wearing the ISS uniform are spread across 60+ countries and regions, taking pride in their professional services.

II. From the Nordic Lighthouse to the Pearl of the Orient: Deeply Cultivating China with Resounding Steps

In 2005, ISS officially entered the Chinese market, bringing with it the security DNA and integrated facility services experience originating from Denmark, and from then on embarked on an extraordinary journey of growing together with this passionate land.

In the initial years, we focused on establishing a reliable service foundation, extending our service chain through the acquisition of affiliated companies, building a core self-delivery capability system that meets local needs, and steadily expanding our service network.

During this period, ISS successfully obtained a security license, making self-delivered security capabilities the core strength in protecting clients. Later, we established a professional engineering services company, deepening our engineering service capabilities, and upgrading the value of full-lifecycle integrated facility services. In recent years, ISS has also established a shuttle bus company, actively fulfilling its sustainability commitment through the "fuel-to-electric vehicle conversion" project.

After twenty years of rooted development, ISS's services now cover over 80 cities in China, managing an area exceeding 10 million square meters. With a total workforce of nearly 10,000 employees, it serves as an important testament to our service strength. What we cherish the most is the high level of recognition from our clients—a renewal rate of 95+%, which is the most tangible manifestation of this trust.

III. Witnessed by Honors: Assuming Responsibility, Advancing with Acclaim

Over the past twenty years, ISS's deep cultivation and dedication in the Chinese market have won continuous affirmation and trust from the government, the industry, and various sectors of society.

We cherish every honor; they represent:

    • Authoritative recognition of our professional service quality
    • Commendation for actively fulfilling our social responsibility as a corporate citizen
    • A testament to our continuous investment in the field of employee care and well-being
    • Encouragement for driving sustainable development practices

These accolades spanning two decades inspire us to consistently pursue excellence, live up to the trust placed in us, serve clients, give back to society, and care for employees with even higher standards.

Embarking Again After Twenty Years, Co-operating for a Winning Future

Twenty years is an accumulation of time, and even more so, the starting point of a new journey. "Twenty Years of Sino-Danish Synergy, Co-operating for Long-term Success" is not only our tribute to the past but also our commitment to the future.

Standing at the new starting point of the 20th anniversary, ISS China will continue to uphold the "security" DNA and entrepreneurial spirit originating from Denmark, relying on global resources and local wisdom to continuously deepen our integrated facility services capabilities.

By joining hands with clients, employees, and partners, through smarter, more sustainable, and more valuable service solutions, we will co-create a better working and living environment, continuing to write a glorious chapter for the next twenty years.

To learn more, please visit About Us.