How Leadership, Community Commitment, and Technological Advancement are Shaping the Future of Janitorial Services

Office Pride
Written by Vicki Damon

For over 30 years, Office Pride has established itself as a leader in the janitorial services industry, committed to providing exceptional service while honoring a foundation built on faith and integrity. With the recent acquisition by private equity firm TriVest, the company is experiencing a transformative phase that is opening new avenues for growth and innovation.

At the core of Office Pride’s philosophy is a commitment to honor God by positively impacting people and workplaces. John Selkow, Director of Integration, emphasizes that this mission is not just a slogan; it is a guiding principle that influences every aspect of the business. “We aim to create environments that are healthy and welcoming,” he says, highlighting the importance of maintaining a clean and safe workspace for employees and clients alike.

This faith-based approach resonates deeply with franchise owners who are drawn to Office Pride not only for financial success but also for a sense of purpose. Kim Mastin, Billing Services Manager and advocate for the company’s mission, echoes this sentiment. “When we invest in people and build meaningful relationships, we create a culture of trust that benefits everyone,” she explains.

The acquisition by TriVest has brought significant changes to Office Pride, including the introduction of new leadership roles. Selkow views the transition as an exciting opportunity to strengthen the company’s operational capabilities. With leaders experienced in international markets, the company gains a strategic advantage, positioning itself for future growth and expansion.

The transition has sparked a renewed sense of purpose among franchise owners, empowering them to innovate and explore new service offerings with the support of headquarters. This strengthened focus on collaboration ensures that franchisees can adapt to evolving customer needs while remaining aligned with Office Pride’s core values.

Office Pride has built its reputation on providing reliable, high-quality janitorial services, with a focus on recurring contracts. Recurring janitorial service is the core of the business, but the team also provides additional specialized services upon request. These services include carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and more, tailored to meet the specific needs of each client.

Efficient billing processes also play a crucial role in delivering overall service excellence, and by streamlining the billing system, the company ensures that clients receive clear and accurate invoices, which helps build trust and foster long-term partnerships. This reliable support is especially valuable for franchise owners, who face the challenge of maintaining consistent quality in a competitive industry.

Office Pride’s commitment to service extends beyond its customers; the company also prioritizes the development of its employees. Selkow emphasizes that a strong workforce is vital for delivering exceptional service. “We’re not just customer-focused; we’re also employee-focused,” he asserts. “We want to create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued.”

To achieve such a culture, Office Pride has implemented comprehensive training programs designed to empower employees with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. The company is committed to investing in its team by providing the necessary tools for success and fostering a sense of pride in the work. This dedication to employee development has led to increased retention rates and a more robust team culture.

Of course, in today’s world, health and safety have become more critical than ever, and Office Pride recognizes the impact that a clean and well-maintained environment can have on employee productivity and well-being. Selkow discusses the concept of “sick building syndrome,” where unhealthy environments have deleterious results, including decreased productivity. “We want to eliminate those risks by ensuring our cleaning processes are thorough and effective,” he explains.

Office Pride’s commitment to health is of course reflected in the chemicals and cleaning methods it uses, so the team prioritizes eco-friendly products and sustainable practices. By focusing on both client well-being and environmental responsibility, the company creates clean, healthy workplaces that not only meet client expectations but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

As Office Pride continues to grow, the incorporation of technology has become one of its key focus areas. Technology plays a key role in improving operational efficiency and service delivery, and the company is constantly exploring new tools and platforms to streamline its processes, such as implementing digital management systems that enhance communication and coordination among team members. Mastin recognizes the importance of staying ahead of industry trends, and says that, “The demand for transparency and accountability is increasing. By leveraging technology, we can provide our clients with the assurance they need while also improving our internal operations.” This forward-thinking approach positions Office Pride for success in an increasingly competitive landscape.

In response to this growing client demand for streamlined services, Office Pride has recently launched a national accounts program. This initiative allows clients to manage multiple locations under a single point of contact, simplifying communication and billing processes. This program has had positive impacts on customer relationships and has secured several national accounts within just a few months, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from clients. The program highlights Office Pride’s ability to adapt and continuously improve. By consistently seeking ways to enhance its services and address client needs, the company demonstrates its commitment to listening to customer feedback and acting proactively, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.

The company’s success is deeply rooted in its commitment to community and legacy. The franchise model enables local ownership while staying aligned with a broader mission. Many franchise owners are driven by a desire to make a positive impact in their communities, which motivates them to invest in both their businesses and the people they serve. This shared sense of purpose strengthens the company’s overall vision.

Olon Hyde, co-owner of Office Pride of Pensacola-Downtown, agrees. “The culture of Office Pride is what is the most fulfilling,” Hyde says. “We truly live out our mission statement to honor God by positively impacting people and workplaces. If you are struggling with something in your business, all you have to do is call a fellow franchisee or your coach and they are there to help guide you through it.”

When it comes to operating a franchise, he says, “The cleaning business is never dull. There is always something to learn or a better way to do things and this keeps you sharp and really wards off complacency.”

Certainly, while Office Pride has experienced significant growth and success, the journey has not been without its challenges. The company acknowledges that the cleaning industry faces numerous obstacles, including labor shortages and increased competition. By continuously evaluating and refining its processes, Office Pride is well-positioned to overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger.

Staying connected with franchise owners, for instance, is crucial during challenging times. Regular communication and collaboration allow everyone to navigate uncertainties more effectively, fostering a strong sense of community among franchisees. This collaborative approach helps create a support network that can quickly adapt to changing circumstances. As Hyde says, “Office Pride has always been big on education and those who attend the annual Retreat and industry conferences always see growth in their franchise.”

As Office Pride looks to the future, its commitment to its core values remains unwavering. With a strong foundation built on faith, integrity, and service, the company is poised for continued growth and success. Selkow encapsulates this vision succinctly: “We focus on doing what’s right for the right people, and we trust that everything else will fall into place,” he shares.

With the support of a dedicated team, a commitment to excellence, and a focus on community impact, Office Pride is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Through innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to its mission, this company is not only transforming the janitorial services industry but also positively impacting the lives of those it serves.

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