Shaun Tucker's Elite Franchise Journey
Shaun Tucker first acquired his Elite Carpet Dry Cleaning franchise in 2014. Established in the 1980s, the Mackay franchise allows him to balance his growing family while delivering top-quality services to Mackay and its surrounding areas. He has no regrets about joining the Elite family and appreciates the support that has helped him build one of the most successful franchises in Australia.
Shaun’s Franchise Story
Shaun worked in the mining sector for years, but the FIFO model did not align well with his family life. With a wife and two young children, Shaun sought a career that would allow him to be present for his family and enjoy those formative years. The opportunity arose when his brother’s father-in-law decided to sell his Elite franchise in Mackay. After working in the business to gauge his interest, Shaun made the decision to purchase it, gaining the independence and control he desired. This move also enabled his wife to find employment and pursue her studies in bookkeeping.
Why Elite Carpet Dry Cleaning?
Initially, Shaun stumbled upon the opportunity to buy an Elite franchise, but as he learned more about the business, its model, and its history, the prospect became increasingly appealing. Here are some qualities that made Elite the ideal choice for Shaun and his family:
Friendly Support
New to the carpet cleaning industry, Shaun quickly recognized the extensive support offered by Elite. He states, “There’s always support there with Elite. People in the company are switched onto different processes, and you can always bounce things back and forth. You’ve got people you can call for assistance.” This network of support was invaluable as Shaun took control of his franchise.
High-Quality Products
Elite’s cleaning products are meticulously formulated to minimize environmental impact and reduce the risk of adverse reactions in humans and animals. They deliver superior cleaning and stain removal, enabling Shaun to provide exceptional service to his valued clients. As Shaun emphasizes, “The products are good. I’ve had industry veterans comment on our products, affirming that no one else achieves such high standards.” The knowledge that he is using safe and effective cleaning solutions instills pride in Shaun and has contributed to the growth of his business, even during uncertain times.
Varied Services
As a franchisee with Elite Carpet Dry Cleaning, Shaun receives training and support to offer a diverse range of services. This variety not only keeps his workday engaging but also enhances his business's resilience against seasonal fluctuations and external uncertainties. His clientele includes schools, retirement homes, and real estate agencies, which ensures a steady flow of work, from emergency cleaning to post-rental services. Shaun notes, “Every day and every job is different. Currently, I am primarily focused on pest control, while also managing crisis and emergency cleaning for 120 properties.”
- Carpet cleaning
- Upholstery cleaning
- Pest control
- Leather cleaning
- Tile and grout cleaning
- Mattress cleaning
- Carpet and upholstery protection treatments
Security in Tough Times
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for many businesses, and Shaun was concerned that his franchise would be among those affected. The lockdowns coincided with Mackay's typical quiet period, adding to his anxiety. Initially, work slowed, but Shaun soon found that demand surged beyond normal levels. He observed that lockdowns made homeowners more aware of cleanliness issues, facilitating his work. “Everyone was at home, making our job easier. We didn’t have to manage pets or gates, and people noticed tasks that needed attention. Overall, we experienced no significant downtime,” he explains. The stability provided by Elite’s franchise model alleviated the financial stress that many faced during the pandemic.
Elite’s National Conference
One unexpected benefit of being part of Elite was the national conference, held biennially on the Gold Coast. This event offers franchisees a chance to network and collaborate. Shaun enthusiastically shares, “We go to the Gold Coast to work on various business aspects and celebrate at an awards night. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow franchisees and exchange ideas.” Shaun has not only enjoyed the camaraderie but has also been recognized as Franchisee of the Year in 2016 and 2018.
The Takeaway
Partnering with Elite Carpet Dry Cleaning has provided Shaun and his family with a financially rewarding business that supports them through both prosperous and challenging times. If you are interested in learning more about Elite’s proven franchise model, please call us on 131580 or contact us today.
All services are performed in accordance with IICRC standards, ensuring compliance and excellence in maintenance and restoration.