Maids by Trade - Industry Q & A

Provide an overview/ description of your industry.

The house cleaning industry has kept steady growth for the last two decades, including the recession in 2008 where it remained barely affected. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the 52-billion-dollar house cleaning industry has a job growth rate of 6%. Which gives a great opportunity to new entrepreneurs looking to establish new businesses.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?  20 years?

The last ten years after the US recession, the house cleaning industry has shown a drastic increase in demand for house cleaning services. In general, over the past 20 years, there has been a higher dependency on cleaning companies for people to keep up their homes clean. Also, new generations don’t have house cleaning as a basic household task, allowing service providers to benefit from this trend.

What trends do you see in your industry over the next 5 years?  Next 10 years?

The house cleaning industry keeps changing year after year. It’s important for cleaning brands to stay competitive and innovative. Maids by Trade uses technology to evaluate and to adjust as the industry does. As the old saying “To know your future you must know your past”. Regular assessments of recent history and an in-depth analysis of user behaviour allows Maids by Trade to better plan new office launching as well as customized marketing.

What is the biggest concern about your industry that a franchisee candidate should be aware of and investigate?

New business owners or investors need to know that the house cleaning industry is about building relationships with clients, employees and vendors. So, it's important to work with a cleaning brand that nurtures a family-like culture and work environment. Furthermore, a franchisee should know that any systems currently in use by the brand might and should always have up for potential upgrades. This means that Maids by Trade is on top of current industry trends and making the necessary adjustments for improvements and to stay competitive; both in benefit of our clients and always looking out for franchisees.

Why do you think your company stands out in the industry?

Maids by Trade has always stood out for its reputation and commitment. Using the newest technology and tools to make the interaction with service provider a fulfilling experience for all parties involved.

What makes your franchise/ business opportunity more attractive than your competitor’s?

At a glance, we believe we have a robust team, not only for the launching of a new office, but during the whole time when working with Maids by Trade. People helping people, engaging with each other and being supportive. All with a genuine desire to offer the best and grow together.

What’s the strongest skill you require in a candidate?  

We believe the is no single skill when it comes to having or operating a Maids by Trade business. It’s a complete set of skills that we can work together in acquiring or polishing. We have a set of guidelines and recommendations for all our franchisees; plus, ongoing training for optimization or just retraining.

Describe the working environment of your franchisees.  Is your environment typical of other companies in your industry?

Every Maids by Trade office has a physical location that requires certain work days and business hours. However, most of the activity happens at client’s homes; either providing in home estimates or cleaning. Franchisees have flexibility of scheduling and work days, allowing additional time off if needed.

Why has your company been successful?

Maids by Trade has established itself successfully due to its team’s commitment to improve and do better. Relying on innovation and technology to deliver the best house cleaning services.

What advice would you give someone interested in buying a franchise in your industry?

Always communicate your questions, get answers, reach out to local organizations for support. Talk to a Maids by Trade representative for guidance.  

How much experience in this industry should a franchisee candidate have should they consider buying a franchise in your industry?

Although there is no experience needed, we highly encourage at least 6 months of knowledge about house cleaning, whether in house, hotel cleaning or janitorial. Furthermore, having some kind of business background can help achieve success while working with other people.