A domestic cleaning franchise operating across Teesside is taking on new staff after being sold to a local entrepreneurial couple, who plan to develop the business to significantly increase the turnover in the next 12 months. Paul and Joanne Nicholson from Teesside, purchased the business from previous owner, Sue Riley who started the franchise in 2003.

Merry Maids Teesside retained seven staff and has over 70 customers who receive weekly and bi-weekly cleans. The business covers areas from Hartlepool to Stockton-on-Tees; Saltburn to Great Ayton and the surrounding areas.

Following a successful career in residential lettings, Joanne took the decision to purchase and manage her own business from home and chose the already established, domestic cleaning franchise. Paul will continue to run his own plumbing, heating and property maintenance business alongside the Merry Maids operation.

Joanne said: “We are excited about the opportunity this new venture will bring us. We want to raise the profile of Merry Maids across Teesside and bring in and develop new staff. Having lived in Teesside all our lives, our local knowledge will help us to develop a successful business.”

Previous owner, Sue Riley added: “I’ve had many wonderful years serving the residents of Teesside and I am confident that Joanne and Paul will have the same experience. Their plans to expand the business and bring further employment to the area is exciting and I wish them all the best.”

ServiceMaster Ltd’s managing director, Alan Lewin concluded: “We are delighted that Paul and Joanne purchased Merry Maids of Teesside and have hit the ground running. Operating in such a large area means their opportunity to grow and develop the business is great.”