As the founder and president of Messy Maid, I am responsible for all of the marketing, training, financial, human resources and management of the franchised maid cleaning services in multiple markets.
We have just passed our 5 year anniversary. After several years of building the business model in Edmonton, we moved the corporate office to Toronto and built all the tools necessary to support a burgeoning team of franchisees. We call it M.E.S.S. Management. Currently with 8 Franchisees, our focus is helping them grow their Messy Maid businesses.
With over 40 years of combined experience in the cleaning and franchise business (with my spouse), I am confident Messy Maid will become a dominant service provider across the country.
BeTheBoss.ca: Tell us about the Messy Maid concept.
Messy Maid is the corporate service you would expect. Unlike others in the field we don't have restrictions. Beyond the normal professional cleaning services, we move appliances and furniture, clean inside appliances, do window and door tracks, de-cluttering and much more. Upon request, we will wash dishes, load laundry and make beds, etc. Our clients love the fact we don't say, "NO we don't do that" to their requests.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Messy Maid?
Prity Gouveia: I am the founder of the company, so obviously have been there since it's inception. Originally, it was to help my sister-in-law to start her own business. With her success, it became apparent to me that I could help other people start their own business too.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Messy Maid Franchise?
PG: I had been in the house cleaning business prior to starting Messy Maid. My vision was bigger than just running a few teams. With my sales/marketing and management experience coupled with the cleaning experience, I knew I could grow a national company.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Messy Maid franchisee?
PG:With a low investment, the ability to work from home, and a minimal amount of inventory, it allows for virtually anyone to own, operate and grow their own business.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
PG: Anyone with some business experience, who can manage people and with a penchant for marketing and networking.
BTB: Tell us a little about the cleaning service Market?
PG:Although competitive, more & more homeowners have less time to devote to their “home chores”. Most families have both spouses working outside the home and cherish their personal time with their families and other interests. The result is increased demand for home cleaning services.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
PG: Managing and recruiting responsible staff, then treating them fairly and with respect, to keep them for the long run. Networking with others in the “home services” market to grow the business with strong referral relationships.
BTB: Do you have a mentor and is their someone you use for inspiration?
PG:My spouse, who founded a similar service based franchise, grew it to over 300 franchises in 20 countries, then sold it a few years ago. His knowledge, experience and support has provided me the advantage of promoting my franchise model.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
PG:Although Messy Maid has just passed its 5th anniversary, the combined experience in both the cleaning and franchise business, is over 40 years. Prospective franchisees need to see a fully functioning working system; well managed, well financed, with all the tools to help them get a successful start. These days the internet will also highlight all your faults, so the good Franchises run clean.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Messy Maid would be a great opportunity for someone?
PG: A low start-up cost, in a proven industry, with an experienced Franchisor, well financed and poised for exceptional growth.
