Can you take less risk yet enjoy the rewards of starting and running a business? You bet! That’s what a franchising opportunity may offer. You can get a much-needed head start by being under the wing of a franchisor with a proven track record, even if you’re new to the business.
If you plan to invest in cleaning services, janitorial franchise opportunities could be the ticket you need to get your feet wet in the $70 billion industry. Here’s our 2022 curated list of the best commercial cleaning franchises you can choose from:
- Buildingstars
Buildingstars provides constantly-in-demand commercial cleaning services. Focusing on office buildings allows you to create a consistent schedule. The firm has been franchising since 2000 and has over 700 locations in the U.S. Your total investment in a Buildingstars franchise would be roughly $8,300.
- ServiceMaster Clean
This firm is an ‘old-timer’ with over 65 years of experience in the commercial cleaning industry. It has more than 800 franchises distributed across 12 nations. The company’s proven track record and its financial incentives- discounts for veterans, women, and minorities- make it easier to get a foothold in the business. A financing option allows you to invest roughly $41,000 in the franchise.
- PuroClean
If you opt for this franchise opportunity, prepare to pay a franchise fee of $50,000 and make an initial investment totaling about $100,000, although this depends on the location you select. A minimum net worth requirement of $200,000 would get you through the door, as would $70,000 in liquid assets.
- Jani-King International, Inc.
Jani-King has been offering franchising opportunities since 1974 and is reportedly among the most extensive cleaning franchisors globally. If the over 9,000 franchisees and more than 120 regional offices are anything to go by, Jani-King may provide an ideal opportunity. You can choose between a unit, master, or international master franchise as an investor.
- Coverall
Coverall specializes in providing janitorial services in the health sector. Since its inception in 1985, Coverall has franchised over 8,000 units, with at least 1,500 international locations. At the moment, it only offers unit franchises to prospective investors. Besides other requirements, the franchise fee ranges from $15,570 to $40,300.
- Vanguard Cleaning Systems (VCS)
If you intend to offer specialty or conventional janitorial services or provide supplies, VCS might be a good fit. The company claims to specialize in eco-friendly products and advanced cleaning technologies. Over 3,000 local and international franchises sport the VCS brand name, and a $5,000 franchise free creates a low barrier of entry.
- the CleanNet USA
A franchise opportunity with this company allows you to offer a wide range of specialty and conventional cleaning services, including grounds maintenance. The firm prides itself on providing eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Requirements for a unit include a net worth of between $10,000 and $300,000 and a franchise fee in the 9000-$30,000 range.
- Chem-Dry
Chem-Dry could be a good choice for anyone looking for a low-cost franchise. The firm specializes in carpet cleaning but supplements its earnings by offering other upholstery, air duct, and wood floor cleaning services. Your estimated initial investment for a Chem-Dry unit would be $67,600 and $178,900, while the franchise fee is about $23,000.
- JAN-PRO
Include JAN-PRO in your list if you’re after a less expensive franchise. Thanks to a $1,000 franchise fee (although this can be as high as $20,000), you can get in on the action. Plus, depending on the franchise type you select, you can invest as little as $2,000 to get started. The firm uses a proprietary cleaning system for commercial spaces.
- Anago Cleaning Systems
This company started franchising in 1991, two years after its inception. Investors can choose between unit and master franchises. Expect an in-depth orientation and eco-friendly approach to cleaning with this chain. Its responsive approach to client satisfaction has seen franchise units grow steadily to about 1,700.
- Mint Condition
The Mint Condition chain positions itself as a provider of cleaning services that engender good health. It also offers comprehensive training to cleaners- including classroom instruction and on-the-job learning to raise the odds of a franchise’s success. Current locations are about 400 (all owned by franchisees across the U.S) since the firm started operating and franchising in 1996.
- Hoodz
Unlike other firms that serve diverse entities in different fields, Hoodz focuses on commercial kitchens. Besides offering cleaning services, it helps businesses with various aspects such as code compliance and adherence to standards, fire prevention, and more. Start-up costs include a $23,000-$89,900 franchise fee and an initial package fee of $19,900. The chain has an estimated 135 units.
- City Wide Maintenance
City Wide Maintenance is a health-conscious cleaning chain offering various focused services for interior and exterior spaces. Franchise opportunities with this firm have been available since 2001, with about 69 units currently in operation. Expect to part with $65,000 as a franchise fee, among other requirements.
- Merry Maids
Merry Maids has been in the house cleaning business for over seven decades, during which time it has franchised around 480+ units. You can qualify by paying the franchise fee and meeting the company’s liquid cash and net worth requirements. The chain also offers discounts and financing to eligible investors.
- 360clean
While other firms focus on being eco-friendly, 360clean prioritizes creating a germ-free environment through its cleaning services. The company began franchising in 2008 and had around 80 locations across America. A franchise fee of about $2,500 and a total investment of roughly $13,500 make 360clean a good pick among low-cost alternatives.
Once you’ve narrowed your search and met the financial requirements, contact the franchise to learn more about what they offer. Plus, go over the franchise disclosure document to understand everything that’s at stake before committing to a franchise.