Franchise Deep Dive: Stanley Steemer's Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

Stanley Steemer has been cleaning carpet since 1947 when Jack A. Bates invested $2,300 into a home-based, carpet cleaning business. After nearly a century, the business has grown from a one-man operation to a network of over 275 independently owned and operated franchises and company-owned locations servicing 49 states.

Cleaning services have also expanded to include residential and commercial carpet cleaning, upholstery, tile and grout, hardwood, air ducts, and 24-hour emergency water restoration. Stanley Steemer service technicians are continuously improving industry skills through classroom learning, enhanced customer service training and developing new cleaning methods. Technicians receive additional intensive training for certifications through third parties, such as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

Each Stanley Steemer franchise offers cleaning, restoration and related services for various types of systems and surfaces to individuals and businesses, using methods and techniques established by the brand within a specified geographic area. Stanley Steemer offers its franchisees access to proprietary technology that provides advanced hot water extraction methods for cleaning carpets, upholstery and related items in residential homes or commercial businesses. The brand also offers franchisees various products and cleaning supplies for sale to the public.

According to a review of Stanley Steemer’s 2022 Franchise Disclosure Document, the average annual gross sales of franchisees nationwide who were in operation during all of 2021 was $1,640,278. Sixty-eight franchisees achieved this sales volume or more. The lowest amount of gross sales achieved by a franchisee was $16,183. The highest amount of gross sales achieved by a franchisee was $12,857,025. Nationwide, franchisee’s median annual gross sales were $1,061,403.

The initial investment range to open a Stanley Steemer in 2021 was $118,210 to $692,536. Here is a breakdown of costs.

• Initial Franchise Fee: $5,000 to $384,341
• Real Property: amount not specified
• Stanley Steemer Cleaning Platform and Accessories: $26,000 to $54,000
• Stanley Steemer Vehicle: $34,000 to $60,000
• Water Restoration Equipment: $6,000 to $30,000
• Air Duct Cleaning Equipment: $8,000 to $82,000
• Sufficient Supply of Cleaning Products Required to Commence Operation: $5,000 to $8,000
• Telephone Deposit: $0 to $250
• Comprehensive Liability Insurance (per year): $7,500 to $15,000
• Computer Equipment: $2,500 to $5,000
• Local Market Advertising Listings: $600 to $7,000
• Internet Connection: $40 to $200
• Data Hosting/Backup: $75 to $250
• Advertising: $8,500 to $14,000
• Travel, Room, and Board to Attend Training Program: $500 to $2,000 per person
• PowerMagic and Nimbus Mobile Software Set Up/Conversion Fee: $495 per person per day
• Additional Funds for 6 Months of Operation: $10,000 to $30,000

The initial franchise fee ranges from $5,000 to $384,341.