""I bought my ServiceMaster Contract Services franchise in January 1997 and after some training, advice and network support I started trading in February 1997. By following the systems that I had been advised and trained to follow by ServiceMaster I gained and started my first cleaning contracts in April. (After 10 years I still service these contracts). I now employ almost 200 staff and have a turnover in excess of £1,000,000. I bought the franchise after researching other franchised operations in a variety of service industries. The ServiceMaster franchise appealed to me because of the relatively low cost of purchase and the opportunity to gain and maintain a regular customer base. Although, as in all businesses, it can be hard work, the rewards can compensate for this in seeing my business grow and develop and the opportunities that it has created for the employment of others in assisting me to run the business effectively. I have found that the network of fellow franchisees of like minded people with similar issues and businesses to run are of a great help, particularly if you are new to the industry and need support and advice. By following some basic principles and planning I can vouch for a successful ServiceMaster Clean business.""

Tony Quinn (ServiceMaster Contract Services Stoke)