Posted:12-August-2026
Why has Phil Wingfield stayed with ServiceMaster Clean for 20 years?
When you're exploring franchise opportunities, one question often matters more than any other: Will this still be the right decision in five, ten or even twenty years' time? For Phil Wingfield, those questions have already been answered.
Today, Phil owns and operates multiple ServiceMaster businesses across Surrey and West London, including ServiceMaster Clean Residential, ServiceMaster Clean Commercial and ServiceMaster Restore. Together, the family-run team supports homeowners, businesses and property owners across Kingston upon Thames, Richmond, Merton, Weybridge and Teddington.
But his journey started long before he became a business owner.
From Employee to Franchise Owner
Phil first joined ServiceMaster at just 18 years old.
"I sort of fell into it by accident, but swiftly realised it suited me. The hours worked well around football, and as time went on I built a career with the business."
As the years passed, Phil gained hands-on experience working with customers and learning every aspect of the operation. When the previous franchise owner he worked for decided to retire, Phil saw an opportunity to take the next step. In 2003, he purchased the business and became a ServiceMaster Clean franchise owner himself.
More than two decades later, he is still building on that decision.
Growing More Than One Business
Many people exploring a franchise opportunity are not simply looking for a business they can start. They're looking for one they can develop over time.
Phil believes the combination of an established brand, ongoing support and the ability to grow made ServiceMaster Clean the right fit for him.
What began as a single franchise has grown into a portfolio of complementary ServiceMaster franchises. Alongside residential cleaning services such as carpet, upholstery and hard floor cleaning, Phil also operates a commercial cleaning business and a ServiceMaster Restore franchise, helping customers recover from fire, flood and accidental damage.
Rather than standing still, the business has continued to evolve alongside customer needs. That has enabled Phil to expand into new sectors while remaining part of the same trusted network.
For prospective franchise owners, that growth provides an example of how a business can develop when it's built on strong customer relationships, local reputation and consistent support.
Why Stay for 20 Years?
Twenty years is a long time in any business.
For Phil, staying with ServiceMaster Clean has been about having the freedom to build something of his own while continuing to benefit from the support of an established brand.
Over the years, the business has grown alongside changing customer needs while remaining rooted in the communities it serves.
"What I've always liked is that no two days are the same. Over the years we've been able to build strong relationships with customers, grow the business and adapt as things have changed. Twenty years on, I'm still enjoying it."
The result is a family-run business that has served thousands of customers, created local employment opportunities and expanded across multiple service sectors.
A Different Measure of Success
When people research franchise opportunities, it's easy to focus on the early stages, the launch, the training and getting the business off the ground.
But long-term success is often measured differently.
Many aspiring business owners are looking for something sustainable. A business they can grow steadily, customers they can build lasting relationships with, and a brand they can trust to support them for years to come.
Phil's story demonstrates what can happen when those foundations are in place.
Twenty years after becoming a ServiceMaster Clean franchise owner, he continues to support customers, employ local people and grow the business with the help of his family and team.
For anyone considering a ServiceMaster Clean franchise, his experience offers an important perspective. Franchise ownership isn't always about rapid growth or chasing the next opportunity. Sometimes it's about building a business that fits your goals, supports your lifestyle and continues to provide opportunities year after year.
Interested in learning more about franchise ownership with ServiceMaster? Start the conversation and explore the opportunity that's right for you.
ServiceMaster Clean Residential – CLICK HERE
ServiceMaster Clean Commercial – CLICK HERE
ServiceMaster Restore – CLICK HERE
Interested and want to know more about ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services?
The ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services profile outlines all aspects of their franchise opportunity and allows you to contact them for further information or to ask a question.
