Franchising can be a gateway to finding a newfound sense of freedom and independence. The path to that freedom is different for everybody – some people know from the beginning that they want to be their own boss, and some just happen to gravitate towards it.
Eric Broussard, the proud owner of Chem-Dry in Chicago, made the leap to entrepreneurship in 2020. Entrepreneurship wasn’t an impulsive decision for him, it took time for Broussard to realize that he should take the leap toward owning his own franchise. His inspiring journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the rewards that await those who dare to pursue their dreams.
Careful Consideration to Align Personal Goals
Broussard traversed through various roles before he found the brand that would shift the course of his life, propelling him into entrepreneurship. From facing unemployment, driving for Uber, and later embracing the responsibilities of a paramedic, Broussard’s experience covered a wide spectrum. Eventually, his path led him to the doors of a competing company within the cleaning industry, where he tirelessly dedicated himself to honing his skills and knowledge.
Despite having immersed himself in the cleaning industry twice throughout his career, it was not a quick decision to become a franchisee. It took time before Broussard fully comprehended the potential within himself and the franchise model to seize the opportunity and embrace the pursuit of being his own boss.
It was a leap of faith grounded in a deep-rooted belief in his abilities, a proven business model he found in Chem-Dry, and an unwavering determination to shape his destiny as an entrepreneur.
The Decision to Invest in the Right Franchise Opportunity
By 2020 Broussard was working for a competitor in the cleaning industry, exhausted and burnt out almost daily. His wife prompted him with the first question that sealed the deal for his decision to pursue franchise ownership – “How Long Are You Going to Do This?”
This question made Broussard evaluate how long he could continue in his current role, and begin exploring how he could turn his life around. He started to make plans, putting a timeline on what he wanted out of the next five years. One of his big considerations was how his business was going to be shaped in 2020. At the height of the pandemic, he would need to think innovatively to make sure people felt safe and validate his customers were getting a valuable service during challenging times.
Broussard did not let this deter him, and he joined the Chem-Dry team.
When considering becoming a franchisee, Broussard found the most comfort moving forward in part due to the tremendous training and support offered by the franchisor. Chem Dry provides a comprehensive training program that helps train new franchisees on every aspect of their new business, as well as ongoing support and coaching. This includes training on marketing and all business programs and platforms, how to continue to grow your business, and much more.
Business ownership is always harder than it looks, but having a recognizable brand behind you that offers lots of training, support, and resources can help make the opportunity to succeed more attainable.
Open, Operating, Growing
Opening during the midst of the pandemic was a challenge on its own, but by diversifying services and prioritizing customer service, Broussard’s business continued to thrive despite the pandemic’s hurdles. His track record of determination and knowledge of the industry, paired with the backing of a reputable franchisor, wildly contributed to his success.
Broussard believes that investing in a proven business model is one of the best ways entrepreneurs can tap into an established brand’s success while still enjoying the benefits of being their own boss. He found that franchising provides a structured framework and support system, allowing individuals to leverage the expertise and resources of a larger organization while retaining the flexibility to make autonomous decisions. The blend of guidance and autonomy seen at Chem Dry empowers aspiring business owners, like himself, to shape their own future, create a fulfilling work-life balance, and ultimately pave their path towards financial stability and personal fulfillment.
Since its launch in 1977, Chem-Dry has become the recognized market leader by building a robust network of 1,800 franchises across the country, serving more than 40,000 homes and businesses weekly across 55 countries. With the $5 billion carpet cleaning industry expected to increase 1.5% in 2023, Chem-Dry is poised to continue its market leadership and growth.
According to Chem-Dry’s Franchise Disclosure Document, the Top 25% of franchise territories generated $700,250 in 2022, earning 16.4% more than the previous year.
Broussard has serviced thousands of homes and businesses since opening in 2020, delighting customers along the way and making him a standout franchisee in the Chem-Dry system.
For Broussard, seeking to break free from the constraints of traditional employment, franchising offered an enticing opportunity to take control of his professional destiny.
For more information about the franchise opportunity, call 877-450-4874 or visit chemdryfranchise.com.