Q&A with Joshua Lay, Stratus Building Solutions Master Franchisee

Name: Joshua Lay

Brand: Stratus Building Solutions

Territories: 2 master franchises

Years in franchising: Since 2018

Why did you choose to franchise with a service brand?

The model is sustainable. It does require a lot of hard work, but you can be successful if you take it one step at a time.

How did you choose the sector and brand you did?

The people at the Stratus corporate office I met during discovery day were different. They are more trustworthy and have experience working as a master franchisee. I felt they were focused on trust, integrity, and doing things right.

What different skill sets are required for service brand franchising?

You have to know how to motivate and lead your team well. You can’t do it on your own, so you have to hire the best and develop them. You have to find people with a growth mindset who are willing to learn.

What are the advantages of choosing a service brand?

You get to help others. At Stratus, we have unit franchisees who invest in their own businesses. Many of the unit franchisees are minorities and women. This gives them a chance to achieve the goal of entrepreneurship. We also have the pleasure of working with clients who haven’t had the best experience with cleaning companies but like to work with us.

What would you recommend to anyone considering a service brand?

Just do it. Don’t think too much. It doesn’t matter if you start now or later, you will be dealing with the same things as an entrepreneur. It’s important to do your due diligence on the brand and create a financial model for your business.