Why We’re Not a Cleaning Franchise
When speaking with facility managers over the years, a question we hear quite often is, "Are you part of a franchise?" This question comes up frequently because many companies have had less-than-ideal experiences with cleaning franchises.
But what is it that leads to these issues, and when could choosing a franchise be a smart move? On the other hand, what are the benefits of opting for a locally owned, independent janitorial company?
The Risks of Choosing a Cleaning Franchise
Many franchise owners enter the cleaning business because they lack the resources to start independently. Franchises provide a framework, systems, and support for growth. However, for those looking to hire a cleaning service, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Quality Variability: The franchise’s reputation doesn’t always match the quality of work done by individual franchisees.
- Low Entry Barrier: Franchises make it easy to enter the business with promises of good returns, which can lead to a high number of franchisees who don’t establish themselves as reliable, well-regarded cleaning companies.
- Inconsistent Quality: With the vast number of franchise companies, the chances of encountering a substandard contractor can be higher.
- Lack of Control: Some franchisees rely on 1099 employees, meaning they subcontract the work, which can result in less direct oversight and control.
When a Cleaning Franchise Might Be the Right Choice
There are certain situations where hiring a cleaning franchise might make sense for your business:
- Smaller Facilities: Franchises tend to excel in servicing very small facilities where they can offer lower prices than many other providers.
- Multiple Locations: If your business operates across several cities, franchises from the same brand can often work together to service all your sites.
- Established Franchises: While they can be harder to find, some well-established franchises do offer reliable and quality services.
Why a Locally Owned, Independent Janitorial Company Might Be Better
There are several compelling reasons to consider a locally owned, independent cleaning company:
- Business Stability: Independent businesses, having started without the backing of a franchise, often have the resilience and experience that lead to greater longevity.
- Greater Capacity: Independent companies are often better equipped to handle larger, more complex facilities, with more financial resources and a larger workforce compared to franchise counterparts.
- Lower Costs: Independent companies don’t have to pay franchise fees, which allows them to offer more competitive pricing, especially on larger contracts.
- Service Flexibility: Local companies can customize their services to fit your specific needs, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both cleaning franchises and independent janitorial companies have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. By carefully assessing the needs and objectives of your facility and considering the pros and cons of each option, you can make a more informed decision when selecting the right janitorial service for your business.
