Throughout our conversations with numerous facility managers, a common question often arises: “Are you a franchise company?” This question is frequently asked because many companies have had negative experiences with cleaning franchises. But why do these problems occur so often, and when might it make sense to use a franchise? Additionally, what are the advantages of hiring a locally owned, independent janitorial company?

The Downsides of Using Janitorial Franchises
Many franchise owners enter the cleaning business because they lack the resources to start independently. Franchises provide structured systems, processes, and growth support. However, for those hiring these franchises, there are potential pitfalls:

• • Inconsistent Quality: The reputation of a franchise brand does not always reflect the quality of individual franchisees.

• • Ease of Entry: Franchises offer an easy path into the business with promises of high returns, which can result in many franchisees starting up without becoming reliable, reputable cleaning companies.

• • Low Quality Ratio: Given the large number of franchise companies, there is a higher likelihood of encountering subpar contractors.

• • Subcontracting Issues: Some franchisees use 1099 employees, essentially subcontracting the work and not maintaining direct oversight.

Situations Where a Cleaning Franchise May Be Beneficial
There are scenarios where a cleaning franchise might be suitable for your facility:

• • Small Facilities: Franchises often perform well in very small facilities where they can provide services more cost-effectively than many competitors.

• • Multiple Locations: If your business has multiple facilities across different cities, franchises from the same brand can collaborate to service all locations.

• • Reputable Franchises: While less common, there are some well-established franchises that offer high-quality services.

Advantages of a Locally Owned, Independent Janitorial Company
Choosing an independent janitorial company comes with several benefits:

• • Longevity: Independent businesses, having faced the challenges of starting on their own, often have greater staying power and longevity.

• • Capacity: Independent companies typically handle larger, more complex facilities better and possess more financial and human resources than franchise operations.

• • Competitive Pricing: Without the burden of franchise fees, independent companies can offer more competitive pricing, particularly for larger accounts.

• • Customization: Local companies can tailor their services to meet your specific needs rather than using a standardized approach.

Conclusion
Both cleaning franchises and independent janitorial companies have their advantages and disadvantages. By carefully considering your facility’s unique needs and goals and evaluating the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about the best janitorial company for your busines