Over the years, one of the most frequent questions we hear from facility managers is, “Are you a franchise?” This question often stems from negative experiences businesses have had with cleaning franchises.

But why do these challenges arise, and when might hiring a franchise actually be a suitable option? Additionally, what are the advantages of selecting a locally owned, independent janitorial company?

Challenges of Choosing a Cleaning Franchise

Many franchise owners enter the cleaning industry because they lack the means to start a business independently. Franchises offer structured support, such as processes and systems, to help these individuals succeed. However, for companies hiring these services, there are some potential drawbacks:

• Uneven Quality: A franchise’s brand reputation doesn’t always guarantee high-quality service from individual franchisees

• Ease of Entry: Franchises provide an accessible way to start a cleaning business, which can result in a mix of operators, some of whom may not grow into dependable service providers.

• Limited Reliability: With so many franchise companies, the odds of hiring a less reliable contractor can increase.

• Subcontracting Issues: Some franchisees rely on subcontracted workers (1099 employees), which means the work is often handed off to others, leading to less oversight and control.

When a Cleaning Franchise Might Be a Good Option

There are instances where working with a cleaning franchise might be the right decision for your business:

• Smaller Facilities: Franchises often perform well in smaller buildings, where they can provide services more affordably than other competitors.

• Geographically Dispersed Locations: If your business has offices or facilities across multiple cities, franchises under the same umbrella can coordinate to service all locations.

• Established, Reputable Brands: While not as common, some cleaning franchises are well-established and offer reliable, high-quality services. 

Why Independent Janitorial Companies Are a Stronger Choice

Independent, locally owned janitorial companies offer unique advantages that make them an excellent choice for many businesses:

• Proven Longevity: Independent companies often face tougher challenges starting out, but this creates seasoned businesses that tend to have staying power.

• Greater Capacity: These companies are frequently better equipped to handle larger or more complex facilities, with more financial and human resources than their franchise counterparts.

• Cost-Effective Services: Without franchise fees, independent companies can offer more competitive pricing, especially for larger contracts.

• Custom Solutions: Locally owned companies can adapt their services to meet your specific needs, avoiding the one-size-fits-all approach often used by franchises. 

Conclusion

Both franchises and independent janitorial companies come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. By carefully evaluating the needs of your facility and considering the pros and cons outlined above, you can make a well-informed decision and choose the cleaning service that best fits your requirements.