Cleaning and Restoration: UWRG Franchise Is Primed for Growth

Bob Moore, Vice President of Development and Operations for United Water Restoration Group (UWRG), is no stranger to franchising. Moore has been franchising for 30 years and got his start at Domino's Pizza. After selling his stores, he went to work for now-competitor Service Master as the West Coast Director of Operations. Moore worked there for three years, then worked at Dunkin’ Donuts for over 10 years. 

UWRG was established in 2008. The three owners—Lajos Nagy, Endre Banfi and Managing Partner Zoltan Kurucz who joined the company in 2010—were Hungarian and all working in the restoration business in some capacity. Together, they decided to join forces, buy a van and start knocking on doors.  

In 2015, the brand began franchising. When Moore started, there were only five franchisees. Now there are 25 franchisees representing 83 territories across the U.S. and Canada, and more are in the works. 

People are drawn to UWRG because of its recession-resistant nature. During the pandemic, people still had a need for restoration in their homes. UWRG also did COVID-19 cleanings. 

“One of the things we always stress to our franchisees is if you are a good operator and you run a good business, there's market share for you,” commented Moore. “The most successful franchisees are the engaged franchisees. They engage with my team as corporate support. They engage with their fellow franchisees. They engage in the industry.”

Moore challenges his franchisees to think “Why you?” Why should people come to work for their franchise? The relationship between the franchisor and franchisee is how the brand remains successful. Communication and intent also go a long way as well. Team members are not afraid to challenge leadership in meetings and have them consider things from a franchisee's perspective.  

There is a husband-and-wife couple who run a UWRG in Atlanta, and they are the poster couple for keeping a good team. The wife makes birthday cakes for the crew. Every once in a while, the couple barbeques for all of their employees. If someone isn’t the right fit, they’re quick to let them go so as to not disrupt the team they’ve built. This particular franchisee has built a great culture within their employees, and it has led them to success. 

UWRG has partnered with Raintree, and the goal for 2023 is to have 40 signings. 

You can listen to the full interview with Bob Moore here. 

The total initial investment to open and begin operation ranges from $159,342–$441,874. For more information on franchising, visit uwrgfranchise.com/investment-opportunities.