When speaking with facility managers, there’s one question that comes up time and again:

“Are you a franchise?”

It’s a fair question—and it usually comes from someone who’s had a frustrating experience with one. Franchises can look attractive on the surface, but they don’t always deliver the consistency and control that businesses expect. So, why do so many companies struggle with franchise cleaning providers? And in what situations could a franchise be a reasonable option? Let’s also look at why partnering with a locally owned janitorial service can offer real advantages.

The Franchise Cleaning Model — What’s the Catch?

For many franchisees, joining a franchise is a way to get into business quickly. The franchise gives them branding, systems, and training—but that doesn’t always equal quality service. Here are some common concerns we hear:

  • Reputation Doesn’t Equal Results: Just because the company has a big name doesn’t mean your local operator is well-run or experienced.
  • Quick Start, Uneven Growth: Franchises are marketed as easy business opportunities, which often leads to owners who aren’t fully prepared to meet client expectations.
  • Too Many, Too Inconsistent: With a high volume of franchise locations, quality can vary widely from one to the next.
  • Outsourced Labor: It’s common for franchisees to subcontract the work to 1099 workers, which creates a disconnect between who’s hired and who actually shows up to clean your facility.

When a Franchise Might Make Sense

That said, there are situations where a franchise may be a practical choice:

  • Very Small Locations: If you operate a small office or retail space, franchises can sometimes provide basic cleaning services at a lower rate.
  • Facilities Spread Across Regions: Franchises that exist in multiple cities may be able to coordinate services across locations more easily.
  • A Few Solid Players: While rare, some franchises do operate at a high standard—it just takes extra work to find them among the crowd.

Why an Independent Janitorial Partner Often Delivers More

If you want stability, adaptability, and better service, working with an independent cleaning company might be your best option. Here’s why:

  • Staying Power: Independent businesses aren’t built overnight. They often grow slowly and steadily—resulting in companies that are more committed and experienced.
  • Stronger Support Structure: Many independents are better equipped to handle large, complex buildings and have stronger teams and infrastructure.
  • More Cost-Efficient: Without franchise royalty fees or corporate overhead, independent companies can offer better value, especially for medium-to-large accounts.
  • Tailored Solutions: Independents can adapt to your facility’s needs instead of relying on pre-set packages or rigid systems.

Choose What Works Best for You

At the end of the day, not every franchise is bad, and not every independent company is excellent. But understanding how each model operates—and what kind of service you’re likely to get—can help you make a more confident decision. Take the time to evaluate your options. Your facility deserves a janitorial partner that’s dependable, accountable, and built around your goals.