Molly Maid Cleans Up with $1.2M Milestone

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Residential cleaning has always been an in-demand service but more customers in 2021  needed a cleaning service in the wake of COVID-19, says Katie Burkey, owner of Molly Maid of Mahoning/Trumbull Counties.

“Customers were finally feeling some relief and wanted a reliable company to clean for them,” she says.

After reaching $1 million in sales and achieving three new weekly milestones in November, the franchise closed 2021 with $1.2 million in sales. Sales were up 25% from 2020 and 15% over 2019, before the pandemic.

Heading into spring cleaning season, Paula Fuhri, hired earlier to assist with customer service calls and in-home estimates for new customers, was meeting up to 20 new clients a week, she says.

“Despite the low staffing, we were able to offer services as soon as possible,” Burkey says. “Many of our staff volunteered to work several Saturdays to take on additional house cleanings.”

During the summer months, as COVID-19 restrictions eased, Molly Maid personnel were busier than ever.

“Teams were setting records in sales and taking on as much cleaning as possible. Customers were extremely patient and very grateful to have a place on our schedule,” Burkey says. “And we were very thankful for them.” 

In 2021, the franchise transitioned to using all-microfiber cloths and mop heads, which are more effective and durable in the long term, she says.

Other milestones included Carrie Finnick’s recognition in the Molly Maid Hall of Fame, which consists of the top-10 cleaning staff across the company system, with Lisa Cornell listed as an honorable mention.

In October, the franchise marked the 25th anniversary of the Ms. Molly Foundation, which supports victims of domestic violence.

More than $8,800 was raised for Sojourner House and Someplace Safe and 26 totes were filled with collected items.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.