Right Behind You

Reuben Muusers: ‘It’s a lot less risky than going solo’

It’s the support they receive that turns Paramount Services franchisees into successful business owners

After 41 years of solid growth, Paramount Services requires little introduction. The commercial cleaning and pest control franchise’s huge success is based on building solid relationships between franchisees and their clients – and relationships between franchisees and the company’s enthusiastic support team.

The 140 franchises in the Paramount Services network can call on their operations team 24/7. That gives them access to a huge amount of knowledge and experience covering all aspects of the cleaning industry, and focused on delivering peace of mind for franchisees and clients alike.

Any Hants is one member of the team. As Account Manager - Operations, Andy works alongside Auckland franchisees who specialise in soft textiles cleaning, along with pest management and decontamination services.

‘My role is to help franchisees grow their businesses by learning additional skills and techniques,’ Andy explains. ‘We have a lot of experience in the group and, having carried out the work ourselves, we’re able to help train franchisees in the most practical and effective ways. That helps them work efficiently, train their own staff, and maximise the returns they get.’

The operations team is continually upskilling too, he says, ‘So the high day one, while part-time means franchisees can start small and keep level of support is maintained whatever the challenges we face.’

Andy Hants, Paramount Services - Account Manager - Operations

Impressive support

As a franchisee, Reuben Muusers can vouch for the excellent level of support provided. ‘The management come from the grass roots of New Zealand’s cleaning industry, and everyone is so approachable and so helpful that the franchise feels more like a family,’ he explains. ‘At the same time, it’s highly professional – Paramount encourages everyone to undertake the appropriate level of industry training to ISO and NZQA standards.

‘During my 14 years with Paramount, the cleaning industry has changed quite a bit and the required level of compliance has increased and shifted several times. Our clients want the highest standards, too, especially these days. The Paramount team have provided excellent care to ensure we have always met the regulations in New Zealand, including annual audits for health and safety and training compliance.

Looking back, Reuben remembers the reasons why he chose a Paramount franchise.

‘I had been working as a contractor in carpet cleaning and pest control, and was tempted to start my own cleaning business, but the cost of promotion, equipment and the risks of the market put me off. The cleaning and pest industry is highly completive, and large companies have the advantages. Paramount is a New Zealand company with a great name and an established client base, which means it’s a lot less risky than going solo.’

Reuben says his transition from sub-contracting to owning his own franchise was ‘pretty natural. Paramount were really supportive and after just three months I was in full swing. 13 years on, I have a very successful business that gives me control over my time and cashflow, and flexibility in the jobs I take on.’

Advice for newcomers

Paramount Services franchises offer both full-time and part-time business opportunities. Full-time provides a healthy income from day one, while part-time means franchisees can start small and keep their daytime jobs until they are established. Investment starts from $15,600+gst and full training is provided.

Reuben points out that any business proposition involves an element of risk. ‘Franchising is no different, so I’d advise anyone to look at the opportunity and weigh up whether the business is right for you. Will it provide the right return for the time invested? How does it fit in with your other goals in life? Talk to the people at Paramount to find out – they are very straight about what this business involves. It has to be right for you and your family. Once you’ve asked all the questions and got all the answers, you can decide to put aside the anxiety and make the decision.

‘The great thing about this franchise is that you have people to take care of the boring stuff so that you can focus your own time on doing a good job. Your franchise fees cover more than you might think, such as invoicing, health and safety consultancy and compliance, marketing and insurance, and a whole lot more. All this and you have an account manager like Andy to help you grow your business and find new clients.

‘I have never regretted joining the franchise. Things have gone really well, and I can see more growth to come in the next few years. If you want a business that has real support, it’s definitely worth looking at Paramount.’

Rachael Cameron of Paramount says that the franchise has full- and part-time opportunities available throughout New Zealand. ‘With the right attitude and commitment, you can be in business for yourself with the support of one of the best-known names in the industry. Contact me now to find out more.’

Advertiser Info

Paramount Services

Contact Rachael Cameron

P 0-9-376 7850 M 027 290 3157

rcameron@paraserve.com

www.paraserve.com