Franchise Ownership

Franchisee Spotlight – Hector Guzman, Corvus of Northwest Arkansas

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November’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Northwest Arkansas Franchise Owner Mr. Hector Guzman. Read on to learn more about the standout Franchisee who goes above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

In the Corvus of Northwest Arkansas office, when the conversation turns to “Franchise Greats,” Hector Guzman’s name invariably rises to the top. His journey in the franchising world is nothing short of remarkable, serving as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Hector’s story began in October of 2015 when he decided to step into the world of business ownership. At the time, his background was primarily in raw poultry production – a field far removed from the janitorial and cleaning industry. Despite his lack of experience in this new domain, Hector brought with him an invaluable set of skills: a robust work ethic and an unwavering determination to succeed. These traits have been the cornerstone of his journey and the reason behind his enduring success.

From the outset, Mr. Guzman demonstrated a remarkable commitment to his work. Impressively, he continues to personally clean the very first account he ever secured eight years ago, showcasing his dedication and loyalty to his clients. This level of commitment is rare and speaks volumes about Hector’s character and his approach to business.

Hector’s success is not a solo endeavor. Alongside him is his wife, Clara, who has been an integral part of the journey. Together, they make a formidable team, not just in cleaning and maintaining high standards of service, but also in promoting their business and the Corvus brand. Their synergy and teamwork have been pivotal in the growth and success of their franchise.

In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Hector was awarded a 75-inch LG big screen TV last year for referring the most new Corvus business owners in 2022. Such achievements highlight Hector’s skills not only in the operational aspects of his business but also in networking and business development.

Mr. Guzman’s trajectory is truly inspiring; his story illustrates that with dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, success is attainable in any field, even one as challenging as janitorial franchising. Hector Guzman stands as a shining example and an exceptional business partner, not just in Northwest Arkansas, but in the broader context of entrepreneurial success stories. His journey continues to inspire and motivate aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike. Thank you, Mr. Guzman!

Franchisee Spotlight – Dee Smith, Corvus of Lexington

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October’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Lexington Franchise Owner Mr. Dee Smith. Read on to learn more about the standout Franchisee who goes above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

Imagine opening your own business and finding that you are in better shape, both in mind and body, than you were when working in hard manual labor. That is exactly the experience of this month’s Franchise Owner Spotlight, Dee Smith, with Corvus of Lexington. Clint Smith, Regional Director of the Lexington market, wanted to feature this Franchisee for the month of November.

Mr. Smith has been with Corvus Janitorial for over ten years, having opened his business in August of 2013. He said he had his doubts when he signed up to open his franchise. He had heard some negative comments about janitorial franchises in the past, but after getting to know the Corvus staff, he felt much better about his decision. Mr. Smith likes the family atmosphere of the company and notes that, “not everything is perfect, but neither are family relationships.”

Mr. Smith enjoys being his own boss in an industry and company that has a lot of potential for growth. He is one of the top ten high-capacity Franchise Owners in his market and finds one of his favorite parts of the business is building relationships, especially with his customers. He also appreciates that this isn’t a typical nine-to-five position and it’s not as physically demanding as his previous jobs.

Mr. Smith’s approach to business and his success in the Corvus Janitorial Franchise System exemplify the principle of “work smarter, not harder.” It’s evident that he has harnessed these principles to create a thriving business that not only benefits him but also contributes to the Corvus rand as a whole. Thank for being such an excellent partner and outstanding representative of the Corvus brand, Mr. Smith!

Scaling Your Cleaning Franchise: Strategies for Growth with Corvus

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As the owner of a commercial cleaning franchise, you are a valued member of a continually expanding network and in a prime position for sustainable growth. The janitorial services sector is experiencing a significant surge in demand, and this trend is set to continue in the foreseeable future.

With businesses and organizations increasingly emphasizing cleanliness and sanitation, your cleaning franchise has immense potential for success and expansion.

While the idea of growing your cleaning business may sound enticing, it is important to acknowledge that doing so requires careful planning and execution. If you’re eager to take your franchise to the next level, consider implementing the strategies listed below:

Build Your Company’s Reputation

Establishing a reputable brand is crucial for attracting customers and standing out amongst your competition. Consistently delivering high-quality cleaning services is critical for business growth, so with every account, pay close attention to detail, use effective cleaning and disinfecting techniques, and if you employ a cleaning crew, ensure they’re well-trained. Once you’ve cultivated a steady amount of satisfied customers, consider encouraging them to leave reviews and testimonials that highlight the quality of your services.

Expand Service Offerings

Consider diversifying your services to target a broader range of customers. For example, you can offer specialized services such as carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and electrostatic spray disinfection. Staying up-to-date with industry best practices and investing in training programs is worthwhile. Certifications such as the Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) or the ISSA Cleaning Industry Training Standard (CITS) can enhance your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and expertise.

Invest in Marketing and Advertising

Spending money on marketing and advertising campaigns can significantly increase your business’s visibility and help you reach new customers. Opening business accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook is a great place to start and free to use; however, gaining traction on overly saturated social media networks can take significant time and effort.

That is where partnering with a commercial cleaning franchise company like Corvus is especially useful. Their dedicated marketing departments are experts in utilizing traditional methods, such as print ads and direct mail, as well as digital marketing channels like social media, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.

Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices

Emphasizing your commitment to environmental sustainability by using eco-friendly cleaning products and practices can increase your credibility with clients who value green practices. Opt for cleaning solutions that are biodegradable, non-toxic, and made from natural ingredients to contribute to a healthier environment. It’s also helpful to look for certifications such as Green Seal or EcoLogo to ensure the products meet rigorous environmental standards.

Leverage Technology

Embracing technology can help you stay ahead in the competitive commercial cleaning industry in a major way. Investing in cleaning management software lets you streamline your operations and improve efficiency. These tools help with scheduling, task management, inventory management, and communication with clients and staff. They can also provide analytics and reports to help you make data-driven decisions. Staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements in cleaning equipment, like robotic vacuum cleaners or autonomous floor scrubbers, can improve productivity and reduce labor costs.

Conclusion

By following the advice above, you will be well on your way to positioning your commercial cleaning business for scalable growth. Remember that scaling takes time, investment, and careful planning, so be patient, remain focused on your vision, and adapt as needed to achieve long-term success.

If you are interested in starting your own janitorial business, speak to your local Corvus representative about franchise opportunities. Contact us today!

Franchisee Spotlight – Patricia & Kelly Simmons, Corvus of San Antonio

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September’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of San Antonio Franchise Owners Patricia and Kelly Simmons. Read on to learn more about these standout Franchisees who go above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

Reed Warren, the Regional Director of Corvus of San Antonio, is thrilled to shine a spotlight on Franchisees Patricia and Kelly Simmons. Their dedication and hard work have significantly contributed to the success of the San Antonio market, which was established just over two years ago.

One of the key factors behind the Simmons’ success is their commitment to building strong relationships with their customers. When asked about her motivation in running the franchise, Mrs. Simmons states, “Seeing people happy! Simple!” This customer-centric approach has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their achievements.

According to Mr. Warren, “They’re just good people and they take this really seriously.” Right from the start, they actively pursued new business opportunities, and as a result, they now boast the second-highest monthly revenue in the region. Their ability to establish and nurture customer relationships has been a driving force behind their success.

The Simmons’ dedication goes beyond regular business hours. They can always be relied upon to handle urgent transfers or answer the phone late at night during emergencies. Their pride in their business is evident, and they have built it from the ground up.

For aspiring franchise owners, Mrs. Simmons offers valuable advice: “Do everything every time. Always plan your work and double-check it when you’re done.” This commitment to thoroughness and quality has clearly been a guiding principle in their journey to success. Patricia and Kelly Simmons are shining examples of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a passion for customer satisfaction. Thank you for your partnership, Patricia and Kelly!

Franchisee Spotlight – Jose and Angie Pineda, Corvus of Denver

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August’s Franchisee Spotlight Series features Corvus of Denver Franchise Owners Jose and Angie Pineda. Read on to learn more about these standout Franchisees who go above and beyond to Make Lives Better!

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

This month, we shine the spotlight on the dynamic power couple from Corvus of Denver: Mr. Jose and Mrs. Angie Pineda.

According to Michael Kerby, Denver’s Regional Director, Jose and Angie have made an outstanding impact in the Denver market. “Certain partners truly stand out, especially those who have my back whenever I need support. Their incredible attitudes and remarkable work ethic never cease to amaze me. Inspecting their accounts is something I look forward to—Jose and Angie embody excellence. Working with them is an absolute joy, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing their continued business growth for years to come.”

Back in 2015, Jose embarked on his franchise journey, a journey that has now spanned eight years. Together with his wife, Angie, they form an unstoppable cleaning duo who genuinely revel in their work. Angie emphasizes, “Our approach is to treat each account uniquely, providing dedicated care and always going the extra mile. Some of my clients have been with me for over seven years, and it feels like we’ve become a close-knit family.”

The concept of family holds immense significance for the Pinedas. With two sons, Diego, aged 14, and Josué, aged seven, their devotion to both their business and family shines through. Amidst their business responsibilities, they also know how to have fun. Mr. Pineda even coaches his son Josué’s soccer team. Having been happily married for eight years, the couple cherishes family trips to Colorado’s stunning mountains.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Pineda expresses, “I had a decade of experience in the cleaning industry, but running a business was a new territory. Opening a Corvus franchise equipped me with invaluable administrative tools. Taking this step was monumental, and Corvus has been an effective guide on this path.”

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Jose and Angie for selecting Corvus as their partner on this remarkable journey. Not only have they fostered robust relationships with their clients, but they’ve also forged strong bonds with their regional support team. Your dedication and passion are genuinely appreciated, and we are privileged to have you as part of the Corvus family.

Financing a Franchise Cleaning Business

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It takes hard work and dedication to succeed as a business owner in any industry, and any experienced entrepreneur will tell you that choosing the right field can make all the difference. The good news is the commercial cleaning franchising industry has shown stability and promising opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and is one of the best low-cost franchises out there.

Whether you’ve been thinking about opening your own cleaning company for a while or are just beginning to weigh the pros and cons, questions like “where do I start?” and “how will I pay for this?” might be crossing your mind. That’s where franchise financing comes in.

From assessing start-up costs to evaluating creditworthiness and everything in between, the guide below will help you confidently navigate the financing process and be on your way to laying the foundation for a thriving cleaning company.

What is Franchising?

You’ve likely heard the word “franchise” or “franchising” said in everyday language, but what exactly does it mean?

Franchising is a business model in which a company (the franchisor) licenses its brand, products, and services to a third party (the franchisee) in exchange for an initial fee and ongoing royalties. The franchisee operates a business under the franchisor’s brand and receives support, training, and marketing assistance from the franchisor.

If the terminology listed above sounds like a foreign language, not to worry. Here is some basic franchising terminology broken down:

Franchise Fee: Franchisees typically have to pay an upfront franchise fee to the franchisor to acquire the right to use the business model and brand. The franchise fee can vary widely depending on the industry, the brand’s strength, and the size of the territory.

Royalties: Franchisees are required to pay ongoing royalties to the franchisor as a percentage of their gross sales. Royalties usually cover services such as ongoing training and support, marketing and advertising assistance, operational support, and product procurement.

Franchise Agreement: The franchise agreement is a legal contract between the franchisor and the franchisee that outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise arrangement, including the franchise fee, royalties, operational requirements, and other obligations.

Marketing and Advertising: Franchisees usually contribute a certain percentage of their sales to an advertising and marketing fund administered by the franchisor. This fund is used to develop regional or national advertising and marketing campaigns to promote the brand. Franchisees are also often asked to participate in local marketing campaigns.

With a franchise, a person can reap the benefits of business ownership without starting from scratch. This is especially attractive to aspiring entrepreneurs, however it’s important to take it upon oneself to do their own due diligence, like carefully reviewing the franchise agreement, understanding the fees and obligations, and thoroughly researching the franchisor and the market to assess the viability of the opportunity. The business landscape is ever changing and unpredictable challenges always arise.

Take the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) announcement, for example. Earlier this year the SBA declared that it would end its franchise directory. The SBA Directory was created as a way for lenders to check whether a franchise was eligible for SBA financing. Without it, SBA lenders will need to do more work to assess whether a franchise qualifies for agency loans. And entrepreneurs will have to do extra digging, too, as they weigh an investment.

Financing a Franchise

Once you’ve determined that franchising is the right business model for you it’s time to consider how you’ll pay for it. Perhaps you have the funds available (and good for you if that’s the case!), but if you’re like the majority of Americans you will need to examine alternative routes. There are several reasons why financing can be beneficial, such as:

Start-Up Costs: Financing can help cover the initial start-up costs of a cleaning business, such as purchasing cleaning equipment, supplies, and hiring staff. By securing funding, you can get your business up and running more quickly and efficiently.

Expansion and Growth: Financing can provide the necessary capital to expand your franchised cleaning business or offer additional services. This can help you reach new customers, increase revenues, and achieve business growth.

Equipment Costs: Cleaning businesses often rely on specialized equipment for efficient and effective service delivery. Financing can help you upgrade or replace equipment, ensuring that you have the latest tools and technology to meet client demands

Financing a cleaning business can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re first starting out in business. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some factors all lenders may consider when discussing potential partnership opportunities:

Personal Credit: Your personal credit is a vital factor in securing financing for a franchise. Lenders review your personal credit history to determine your creditworthiness. Ensure your credit score is in good standing before seeking financing. If your credit score needs improvement, take steps to improve it, such as paying off loans or credit card balances.

Collateral: Collateral is an asset that a lender can seize in the event that you default on your loan or are unable to fulfill the repayment terms. Having collateral, such as property, equipment, or inventory, can increase your chances of securing financing. A lack of collateral, however, might limit your financing options or increase interest rates.

Loan Types: Several financing options are available for cleaning businesses, including traditional bank loans, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, and alternative financing options. Each loan type has its unique eligibility criteria, repayment terms, and interest rates. Research each loan option and evaluate which one is the best fit for your business needs.

SBA vs. Traditional Bank Loans: To expand on the point above, SBA loans and traditional bank loans are most commonly used amongst small businesses. SBA loans are partially guaranteed by the government, making them less risky for lenders, and they offer higher amounts, lower interest rates, and longer repayment terms compared to traditional bank loans. However, SBA loans are somewhat more difficult to qualify for as compared to traditional bank loans. Traditional bank loans have more stringent requirements and shorter repayment terms, but they can be a practical option for established businesses with collateral sufficient to support the loan.

Industry Experience: Since cleaning franchises typically provide new franchisees with initial training, prior cleaning experience isn’t a requirement per se. Your industry experience, however, can certainly influence your ability to secure financing. Lenders may consider your experience, skills, and qualifications when evaluating your application.

In-House vs. Third-Party Financing: In-house financing and third-party financing are two types of financing options available to individuals interested in securing a loan.
In-house financing, also known as seller financing, is when a retailer extends a customer a loan for the purchase of its goods or services. Here, the seller acts as both the seller of the product or service and the lender of the funds for the purchase, providing loans directly to customers.

On the other hand, third-party financing involves obtaining financing from a separate lending institution such as a bank, credit union, or other financial institution. In this type of financing, the seller does not provide the financing directly but instead guides the customer to a third-party lender who will provide the funds, who ultimately determines the approval process and terms of the loan.

Franchising with Corvus Janitorial Systems

For over twenty years, Corvus has proudly helped thousands of men and women turn their entrepreneurial aspirations into thriving businesses with low-cost franchise financing options. If you are interested in learning more, we’ve got you covered. Contact your local Corvus office today to schedule a meeting with an experienced professional who can help guide you in the right direction.