Jonathan Barnett, Oxi Fresh

Innovative carpet cleaning franchiseInterview with Jonathan Barnett, Oxi Fresh

Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® is a rapidly growing carpet cleaning company that offers a low-overhead, home-based franchise opportunity to qualified individuals.  Oxi Fresh’s unique franchise program includes use of a green cleaning method,  innovative marketing, and a nationwide call center that schedules all the sales appointments for its franchisees.

[Pictured, left, Jonathan Barnett, MBA]

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FranchisePick.com:  So, Jonathan, how is Oxi Fresh® faring in this tough economy?

We’re doing very well, and growing steadily.  We first franchised Oxi Fresh in 2006. We started out with one location in Denver and, by the end of 2008, had a total of 87 locations. As of June, 2009 we had 108. We are growing very fast and expect that our numbers will have grown exponentially by the end of 2009.

We are targeting to grow at around 50 new franchisees a year. We do not want to grow more than 60 or less than 40.

FranchisePick.com: That’s impressive growth in a recession.  What are the factors contributing to your success?  What need are you filling?

Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® operates as part of the service industry that’s always in demand. Customers want a cleaning method that is safe, effective, and affordable, which is exactly what Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® provides. Our all natural, biodegradable products are safe for children and pets, yet tough on stains. Being the “stain removal experts,” we’re confident that if we can’t get a stain out, no one can.

Also, we don’t have hidden fees like many other companies which is something our customers love and appreciate. They can rest assured knowing that they are getting the best service at the best price.

FranchisePick.com: What is the appeal of the Oxi Fresh franchise opportunity?

Several things come to mind:  Our turnkey business model.  Our tested and proven marketing strategies.  Support from our dedicated call center.  Great repeat and referral business.   And the fact that it’s a low overhead and easy-to-operate business.

FranchisePick.com:  What have you done to keep the initial franchise investment and ongoing expenses low?

First, Oxi Fresh was designed to operate as a home-based business. Our services and business model eliminate the need for a store front, making it much more affordable for franchisees.

We are able to keep the initial cost of investment low by offering franchisees a home based system and not requiring the purchase of company vehicles. Our royalty structure allows us to charge our franchisees a flat low monthly fee, rather than a percentage of sales like other franchising systems.

FranchisePick.com: Where are you looking to expand? What types of markets and demographics work best?

We are looking to expand anywhere in the U.S. where a protected territory is not already sold. Rural and urban areas both work well, but we will make specific suggestions depending on what that particular franchisee is looking to get out of their business.

FranchisePick.com: Tell us a little bit about the kind of person who would make a good Oxi Fresh franchise owner?

A good franchisee is someone with superior ethics that understands the importance of delivering unmatched customer service and end results. Our owners are not interested in gaining a one-time customer but retaining a lifetime customer.

FranchisePick.com: What are the backgrounds of some of your franchise owners?

Our franchisees all have very different backgrounds, ages and education. Some started fresh out of college, while others left traditional business careers in search of an opportunity that would be both financially and personally rewarding.

FranchisePick.com: What qualities are important to you in selecting new franchisees for your system? What makes a good franchisee?

Our franchisees need to service minded and be dedicated to upholding the integrity of Oxi Fresh. This means providing the absolute best customer service and following the Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® business model.

FranchisePick.com: What do you see as being the greatest non-financial rewards of being part of the Oxi Fresh franchise family?

Our nationwide call center takes all of their calls and schedules all of their appointments freeing up time and money the franchisee would have to invest otherwise. Our turn key business model allows franchisees to own a business rather than work an exhausting job. Combined, these benefits give franchisees more free time to do as they wish and in turn provide a greater quality of life.

OXI FRESH FANWALL:  Are you a fan of Oxi Fresh Carpet cleaning?  Share a comment below!