A franchise case study on starting a window cleaning company

Alan Jarvis and his spouse Charlotte were motivated to create a window cleaning business after pondering the future for their small family.

Alan has always wanted to own his own company. ‘I preferred window cleaning, but one that provided a comprehensive variety of services.’ I wanted to work outside and for myself. It was the appropriate moment for me to attempt something new without putting myself in grave danger. I have three small children, so finding the proper opportunity for my family and me.

I had to decide if the My Window Cleaner offer and the individuals behind it were suitable for me; I had to decide whether to franchise or go alone. Because I’d never operated my own company before, it made logical to start with a franchise to learn the ropes and get experience with a strong and efficient support network.

“This isn’t about having someone teach you how to clean windows; it’s about having the processes, direction, and support you need to build a significant company for yourself.” Anyone may start a window cleaning company, but I have a proven formula for growing into a multi-van operation with My Window Cleaner. That appealed to me since I’m ambitious.”

From supermarkets to superstores, there’s something for everyone.

Although a 30-year career in supermarket management may not seem to be the most apparent proving ground for starting a window cleaning company, Alan thinks the talents he’s cultivated are appropriate for the couple’s new enterprise.

He chuckles, “When I tell previous coworkers what I’m doing today, they think I’m crazy!” “However, they are unaware of the possibility and have a stereotypical vision of what a window cleaner looks like and behaves like.

“Reputation, trust, and job ethics are important talents, and I’ve always employed them.” When you arrive at someone’s home, they want you to be clean, presentable, and courteous. I take that obligation seriously since you’re on someone’s property and perhaps around their family.

“I’m looking forward to growing and expanding the company and hiring our first employee and, perhaps, a second and third in the future.” My time in the future will be focused on training, gaining new business, and maybe expanding into the new region. “The potential is enormous.”

Wheels for training

Alan regards their training before establishing their company as “excellent.” He believes he is well equipped to succeed since he has combined practical learning with knowledge of operating a firm.

“I’ve spent a lot of time in Enfield and Barnet working with the company’s finest window cleaner; it’s very tough since it’s really busy and there’s a wide variety of various buildings and clients to clean,” he adds.

“I’ve also spent many days training locally with the directors, Karen, Dave, and Ian, covering all we require.” Karen and Dave traveled up from Spain to spend those days with us, which is a powerful expression of dedication and unity, in my opinion. It’s been fantastic.

“And if I come across something I’m not sure about, I have phone calls, Skype, and webinars that allow me to rapidly contact individuals if that happens.” “I’m feeling quite prepared.”

Gains are increasing.

Alan’s business ambitions are well advanced – both in earnings and the local community – even though he is only getting started.

“It’s about establishing and increasing slowly,” he explains. Ian and I get along so well because I understand what it’s like to be a client, grow and build a company, communicate internally, network, and consider how we might help the community. We’re on the same page.

“We’re looking at becoming involved in school fetes next summer and how we can collaborate with a local charity, which I don’t believe is very typical in the window cleaning industry.” In my former job, I was constantly involved with a charity and the local community, which is something I value much. I’ve already helped raise over £100,000 for a local hospice, and it’s vital to me to support those in need. This company provides me with the opportunity to do so.”

Alan claims that he and My Window Cleaner are on the same page regarding customer care. “I believe in establishing a reputation and engaging clients by providing a professional approach to our services,” he adds. Ian, Karen, and Dave are firm believers in this, and it’s fantastic to see that we have similar perspectives on this area of business.

“We aim to be renowned for offering the most dependable, trustworthy, and customer-centric service possible,” says the company.

Being outdoors in the good old British weather will change what he’s accustomed to. While the rain doesn’t stop Alan from cleaning, it doesn’t scare him.

“I’m a golfer and a fisherman, so I don’t let the weather stop me from doing anything!” he adds. “I see this beautiful summer as an omen — we haven’t had rain in over two months since I began talking to My Window Cleaner, so that’s got to be a positive sign!”